Joybuy Insights

How to choose kitchen storage and cooking accessories without making a costly mistake

A tidy kitchen needs more than enough cupboard space. The right kitchen storage and cooking accessories should suit the space you have, your cooking habits and how you like to clean. A product may look handy, but prove disappointing in everyday use because it is too small, has an impractical lid or is made from material that is not dishwasher-safe.

Common pitfalls when choosing kitchen accessories

1. A universal size that does not suit your kitchen

“Fits every kitchen” does not mean much without exact measurements. A kitchen bin, for example, may be suitable for a cupboard door but too deep for a narrow base unit. The same goes for a microwave cover: a diameter of 27 cm will not necessarily fit every dish.

Before you buy, measure:

  • the internal width, height and depth of the cupboard;
  • the diameter of your plates and bowls;
  • the available space in the fridge, freezer or microwave;
  • where you will store a lid or basket.

2. A lid that is not suitable for every use

A food cover, food net and microwave cover all serve different purposes. A mesh cover or food net is designed to keep food covered while serving. A microwave cover, on the other hand, must be suitable for use when reheating food and should ideally have steam vents.

Never assume that a food storage container is microwave-safe. For example, the product information for the Maxcook containers says they are suitable for the fridge and freezer, but not the microwave. Always check the usage symbols and safety instructions.

3. “Maintenance-free” without clear information about the material

A product is not automatically dishwasher-safe just because it is made from plastic or stainless steel. Check whether the dishwasher-safe kitchen accessories are explicitly described as such. Also look at components such as silicone seals, handles and lids: they may need different care from the container itself.

For items that come into contact with food, clear information about the material, instructions for use and manufacturer or responsible party are useful points to check. A marketing term such as “premium” is no substitute for a technical specification.

Important specifications to compare

Material and food contact

For stainless steel food containers, the type of steel, the finish and the type of lid all matter. Maxcook’s product information lists 316L stainless steel as a material with corrosion-resistant properties. According to the product description, the containers are designed for storing, chilling and freezing food. Also check whether the manufacturer advises against using sharp kitchen utensils; scratches can damage the surface.

For a food cover or food net, the mesh size, stability and cleaning method are particularly important. A metal food cover from Secret de Gourmet has a diameter of 30 cm and a height of approximately 14 cm. According to the product information, it is not dishwasher-safe and should be cleaned with a damp cloth.

Size and capacity

A set of four containers, each with a capacity of 1,600 ml, is handy for leftovers, meal prep or larger portions, but takes up more room than shallow containers. An 8-litre storage basket with a lid is better suited to snacks, toys, textiles or loose kitchen items than liquid food.

When choosing pans, check the diameter, capacity and hob compatibility. A 26 cm frying pan with a lid and a capacity of 2.4 litres is suited to different dishes from a saucepan set that includes a 6-litre pan. Also check whether the handle will take up space in a cupboard or drawer.

Cleaning and use

A product you use every day should be easy to clean. Check for:

  • dishwasher-safe parts throughout;
  • ventilation holes in microwave covers;
  • whether the lid and container can be cleaned separately;
  • drying time and the risk of odours or moisture building up;
  • warnings about naked flames, ovens or microwaves.

Only use a microwave cover over a microwave-safe dish. According to the product information, the Curver cover has a diameter of 27 cm, ventilation holes and a handle. The manufacturer says it is suitable for use in the microwave and dishwasher, but warns against using it in conventional ovens or using it if it is damaged or deformed.

Recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Curver microwave cover, 27 cm

Curver Microwave Cover, round, 27 cm

Why it suits this need: A simple solution if you regularly reheat leftovers and want to reduce splashes inside the microwave.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The diameter is clearly stated, and the built-in ventilation holes set it apart from an ordinary food cover.

Key benefit & advantages

Transparent plastic, a handle and steam vents. According to the product information, it is suitable for use in the microwave and dishwasher.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for top quality
Maxcook 316L stainless steel food containers

Maxcook 4-piece 316L food container set

Why it suits this need: For households that store several portions at once and want a metal alternative to plastic.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The set lists the material, capacity and usage restrictions, making it clear that the containers are not suitable for the microwave.

Key benefit & advantages

Four rectangular containers, each with a capacity of 1,600 ml; according to the product description, they are dishwasher- and freezer-safe.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent use
Rapid Cooker stainless steel saucepan with glass lid

Rapid Cooker stainless steel saucepan with glass lid, 6 litres

Why it suits this need: For anyone who cooks large portions and wants a roomy lidded pan for everyday cooking.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 22 cm diameter and 6-litre capacity are clearly stated, so you can check the pan against your hob and cupboard before you buy.

Key benefit & advantages

Stainless steel and a glass lid; according to the product name, it is suitable for induction hobs and dishwashers.

Organise rubbish and loose items practically

A hanging bin can free up worktop space. According to its product name, the GAONLY bin has a 12-litre capacity, a lid and a foldable design for hanging on a cupboard door, for example. Check the door clearance and the weight it can support before you buy.

A storage basket with a lid can help keep dry goods, snacks or household items organised. Only store food in a basket if the product information says it is suitable. A basket for stationery, clothes or toys is not automatically suitable for direct contact with food.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions

Are all food covers suitable for outdoor use?

No. A food net or mesh cover can protect food during a meal, but it does not automatically offer protection from rain, wind or long-term storage. Check the material, size and cleaning instructions.

Can I use stainless steel food containers in the microwave?

Not unless the manufacturer explicitly says they are suitable. Metal is generally not suitable for microwave use. The information for the Maxcook set specifically says that it must not be used in the microwave.

Is it better value to buy individual accessories or a set?

A set can be convenient if you need several identical containers or pans. Individual products are more useful if you want to try out a particular size first. Compare more than just the purchase price: consider capacity, dishwasher-safety, storage space and whether parts can be replaced.