The Best Pet Food Storage Containers
Pets are beloved family members, but storing their dry food can be a hassle. The bags that they come in aren’t easy to close, which means that kibble can get stale before it’s eaten. And even if you seal the top, a determined dog or cat can chew through the bag to get a snack before their mealtime. Dedicated storage containers are a great solution because they keep food fresh and safe from your pets as well as house pests like ants. We've rounded up the best options on the market to help ensure your pets always get the best of the best.
What to Look For
When we searched for the best pet food storage containers, we looked for items that met three criteria: they should close tightly, hold an ample supply of food, and be easy to stow away. Our favorite was the Vittles Vault from Gamma2 because it holds 25 pounds of dry food and closes with a secure airtight seal. But although the cube shape is very easy to store, it isn’t the most stylish option. If you’re looking for a more decorative solution, we loved the Dog Diner from New Age Pet. It holds a bag of food within a faux wood cabinet and is topped by two bowls for food and water. Keep reading to see our in-depth reviews of the best pet food storage on the market.
Gamma2 Vittles Vault Outback Food Storage Container
This Vittles Vault is a favorite among pet owners of all kinds, and for good reason. It certainly lives up to its name, keeping food safe from pets, pests, and moisture. And because the threaded seal has two gaskets, it has an airtight closure and you can store it inside or outdoors without worrying. With gaskets and screwtops, it might sound like a pain to open, but it’s quite the opposite. The large top screws off easily, so there’s plenty of room for scoopers and larger food items, like bones. If you want the gold standard of pet food storage, go with the Vittles Vault.
Pros:
- The lid seals tightly but is still easy to open and close, and the handle is built-in so it can’t break off.
- The plastic is very thick and sturdy, and we noticed that our pets can’t smell their food through it. This keeps them from trying to get in the container for a second helping.
Cons:
- Because the container is opaque, you can’t see at a glance how much food is left in the bin.
Iris USA Airtight Pet Food Storage Container
Built to last
For a long-lasting and sturdy container, look no further than this airtight bin from Iris USA. The tapered design makes it easy to scoop out food, and the dark plastic protects kibble from light while still making it easy to see how much is left. This is our go-to choice for durability, but the low price is also a big win.
Pros:
- We liked how the base is narrow enough that the bin doesn’t take up much space on the floor but not so narrow that it’s unstable.
- The seal keeps smells in, so your pantry won’t have a lingering odor of cat or dog food.
Cons:
- The lid is airtight but not very thick, so if you leave it outside mice or squirrels might be able to chew their way in.
Van Ness 25-Pound Food Container with Wheels
Keep it under wraps
Made out of BPA-free plastic, this locking bin easily holds 25-pound bags of pet food. The front handle locks down to seal the lid, but it lifts easily with just one hand. It’s the kind of locking feature that’s easy for humans and difficult (or impossible) for dogs to open. This is a jumbo container with an excellent airtight lid, so if you have a persistent pup with a big appetite, go with Van Ness.
Pros:
- The wheels are inlaid rather than attached to a flat base, so this container is very stable.
- We loved that the whole lid is hinged and lifts up because it makes it very easy to scoop food out of the container.
Cons:
- Because the teeth on the hinge are plastic, they can break off if you open the lid too roughly.
WTM Stackable Bins with Hinged Lids
All together now
If you have several pets, these stacking bins are a great way to keep dog food, cat food, birdseed, and more separated while still easily accessible. The slanted top means that you can open each bin, even if there’s another container on top of it. That way, you don’t have to shuffle them around to get what you need. Another excellent overall option, this one makes organization a breeze.
Pros:
- We like how little space these bins take up because it makes them easy to store in the pantry or laundry room.
- The insides are smooth, so the containers are a snap to rinse out and clean.
Cons:
- The lids snap shut, but they don’t provide an airtight seal.
New Age Pet ecoFlex Piedmont Dog Diner
Let them dine in style
Feed your pup in the lap of luxury with this multi-purpose food stand. A bag of kibble or stacks of canned food slip into the latched base, and there is a water bowl and a food bowl in the top for serving your dog its meals. It’s especially nice for taller dogs since the raised bowls help alleviate some of the stress involved with bending the neck down to eat.
Pros:
- The cutouts for the bowls are enclosed, so the cabinet remains sealed even when you take the bowls out to wash them.
- We appreciated the faux wood material because it looks decorative but is easy to wipe down with a damp sponge.
Cons:
- The sliding top is grooved rather than on rollers, so it can stick a bit. You’ll have to make sure there’s no food or water in the bowls when you open it to prevent spills.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store pet food?
Although the best by date on dry food is usually about a year from the time it was made, kibble only lasts two to three weeks once it is opened. Once it’s exposed to air, the fats begin to oxidize and go rancid. Storing food in an airtight container can extend its shelf life, but toss the food if it begins to smell bad or show signs of moisture.
What size storage container do I need?
Depending on whether you have a Great Dane or a small kitten, you’ll need a different size container. Large wheeled bins with a 55-quart capacity hold a 45-pound bag of dog food, and smaller bins with an 18-quart capacity hold around 15 pounds of food. Double-check the size of your pet’s food bags, and size up or down accordingly.
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