Buying Guide for the Best Plastic Storage Totes
Choosing the right plastic storage tote is all about understanding where and how you'll use it, what you plan to store, and how often you'll need to access your items. Before buying, think about the environment (indoor or outdoor), the types of items (clothes, tools, papers, food, etc.), and whether you'll need to stack or move the totes frequently. A good storage tote keeps your things safe, organized, and accessible when needed.Size (Capacity)Size or capacity tells you how much a tote can hold, usually measured in liters or gallons. This is important because a tote that's too small might not fit all your items, while one that's too large can become heavy and hard to store. Small totes (under 20 liters/gallons) are good for papers or small objects; medium sizes (20-50) suit clothes or general household items, and large totes (over 50) are best for bulky items or large-volume storage. Think about what you need to store: picking a size that matches your needs makes it easier to organize and transport your things.
Material and DurabilityThe material determines how sturdy and long-lasting the tote will be. Some plastics are thin and suitable for light storage indoors, while others are thicker and sturdier, made for heavy or sharp objects, or for use in garages and sheds. Thin, flexible totes are great if your items are lightweight and you don't plan to stack them. For heavy-duty use or stacking, choose rigid, thick-walled totes. If you might store them outside or in damp areas, look for weather-resistant or UV-resistant options.
Lid Type and SealThe lid keeps items protected from dust, pests, and moisture. Basic lids just snap on, which is fine for indoor use with items that aren’t sensitive. For better protection, look for latching or locking lids, which keep the cover secure. Sealed or gasketed lids are even better if you want to keep out water or insects, useful for basements, attics, or garages. Decide what level of protection you need based on where your tote will be and what you'll keep inside.
StackabilityStackability refers to how well the totes can be safely stacked on top of each other. Some are designed specifically to stack neatly, saving floor space. Totes with reinforced lids or grooves are best for stacking tall; without these, totes can topple easily. If you have limited space or plan to have several totes, stacking features will help you create a safer, more organized storage area.
Handles and PortabilityHandles make it much easier to lift, carry, and move your totes, especially when they’re fully loaded. Some totes have built-in handles; others have stronger or more ergonomic grips. If you’ll be moving totes frequently, look for comfortable, sturdy handles. For large or heavy totes, make sure the handles are reinforced so they don’t break under weight.
TransparencyTransparent (clear) totes allow you to see what’s inside without opening them, which is useful for organizing and finding your things quickly. Opaque totes hide the contents, which can be helpful for privacy or shielding items from light. Choose clear totes if you want easy visibility, or solid colors if you prefer a tidier look or extra protection from light exposure.