If you are a fan of the plastic Rubbermaid Brilliance dishes you know why they are so loved: because they never leak. However, plastic has limitations; it stains easily, smells easily, and absolutely cannot be heated in an oven.
- LEAK-PROOF AND AIRTIGHT: Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Food Storage Containers have crystal-clear lids that are 100% airti…
- EASY STORAGE AND REHEATING: Glass containers have vented, microwave-safe lids for easy, splatter-resistant microwaving
- SPACE SAVING: Space-saving, modular Rubbermaid containers are perfect for stacking and organization
The Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass comes into the picture here. It offers the same legendary seal performance, as well as the high-end glass base feature. However, is it truly worth the extra weight and the price? We investigated the long-term feedback of the r/MealPrepSunday and r/BuyItForLife communities to find the answers regarding the usability of the glass component feature.
The “Glass” Difference: Heavy and Premium
The first thing that hits you is the weight. This is why users so commonly comment upon upgrading from plastic that they’re surprised by the heaviness of such devices. This isn’t thin or cheap glass; it’s very dense.
The Pros:
- Oven Safe: You can actually bake a lasagna in these, as opposed to the plastic ones, as well as store leftovers from said lasagna.
- Stain & Odor Free: No need to worry; the red pasta sauce won’t leave an orange stain.
- Aesthetics: They can be placed on the dinner table.
The Cons:
- Commute Factor: Since it is likely that the backpack will be loaded with at least three meals a day, the commute factor becomes a consideration because the weight is apparent.
- Fragility: While they are robust, they are tempered soda-lime glass, not borosilicate glass. Though they are more resistant to thermal shock than regular glass would be, try dropping one on your tile floors, and instead of bouncing, it will shatter.
Leak-Proof Performance: The Bag Test
This is the make or break feature. Is the glass one going to seal the same way the plastic one did?
The Verdict: Yes. The lid locking mechanism is exactly the same as the plastic range. Side latches make a “whoosh” seal when pushed. Users on Reddit have reported taking soup and saucy curry lunches in their work bags with no problem. Providing the gasket is clean and the latches pushed, it is one of the safest glass products to transport.
The Lid Mechanics: Vents & Gaskets
Lids are crystal-clear and are made from BPA-free Tritan material. They also have vents underneath the latches, which is a great design feature. They can be used in the microwave with the lid secured (latches up) to prevent splattering of the food, but still allowing the steam to escape.
“Mold” Controversy: One of the popular debate threads involves mold growth underneath the rubber seal. This is what you need to know: The rubber seal is removable.
- Lazy Cleaning: If you wash it in the dishwasher without ever removing this seal, moisture may be trapped inside and will eventually make it mildew.
- Proper Care: People who remove the gasket every few washes, which can easily be done using a butter knife or the edge of a spoon, have never had any mold buildup problems after years of use. This may be a bit more work than a fused-lid container, but it ensures a more thorough cleaning.
Set Analysis: Is the “9-Piece” Set Practical?
This particular Amazon collection series includes:
- Two small containers (1.3 cups)
- Two medium containers (3.2 cups)
- One large bowl (8 cups)
- And their corresponding lids (hence the “9 piece” count).
Is it useful? This starter kit is good for a couple or an individual. The medium sizes are right on target for a lunch serving. The largest container would be terrific for a roasted vegetable or a family-sized salad serving. However, serious food preppers who cook up 5 lunches a day may have a fight over the two medium-sized storage bins and leave the small ones untouched in the cabinet. You’ll likely need more medium storage bins down the road.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy This?
Consider Buying Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass If:
- You frequently microwave leftovers and dislike the cleanup process associated with microwave splatter (the ventilated lids are genius).
- You need a dish that is suitable for the oven, the fridge, and the table.
- You are fed up with “mystery smells” lingering around your plastic storage containers.
Use the Plastic Version Only If:
- Your commute is long, and each ounce in your backpack counts.
- You have tiled kitchen floors and clumsy hands (glass and tile don’t mix).
- You know you will never, ever take the time to clean a rubber gasket.
On the whole, the Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass line of containers is recognized as “the gold standard” for glass containers. They rectify problems with glass containers, namely being heavy with a leaking lid, by providing a high-quality base and integrating the best lid technology available.
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