Stretchy and Sustainable, These Silicone Covers Are Truly Excellent for Food Storage
For the past few years, my partner and I have been working to phase out our use of single-use food storage materials, such as aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or plastic storage bags. While our Pyrex glass containers have made storing leftovers a bit more sustainable, their plastic lids leave much to be desired. After a couple of years of use (and many rounds in the dishwasher), they started to warp and tear.
Plus, there was always a need for more adaptable food coverings when it came to proofing dough, storing large quantities of food, or keeping small amounts of leftovers that required over- or under-sized bowls. From stealing the lids off our pots and pans to using beeswax wraps, we tried many alternatives, all of which still came up short (some were a hassle to clean while others weren’t microwave-safe). That is until we purchased a GIR Stretch Covers Set. Now, I reach for them all the time when I have odd amounts of food that I want to store, whether it’s in the tiniest cup or the largest bowl. What’s so great about them? Let’s dive in.
They Turn Any Vessel into a Storage Container
When I say that these stretchy silicone covers can turn any vessel into a storage container, I mean it. A half-used can of coconut milk can slide right into the fridge or some just-mixed dough can proof comfortably in the bowl of a Kitchenaid stand mixer with a GIR Stretch Cover slapped right on top. The set comes in six covers of varying sizes, ranging from 2.5 to 8.25 inches. This means you can place one over the tiny bit of leftover dressing in a ramekin or stretch a cover over your leftovers in the bowl you just ate from—no need to dirty a whole other container.
They’re Flexible
Because of their flexible material, the covers can easily stretch to fit bowls that are a bit larger than their own diameter, making their range of sizes incredibly useful. Additionally, their sides are ridged, so the covers are able to grip securely around the rim of any bowl.
…And Easy to Store
While looking around for plastic wrap and aluminum foil alternatives, I also saw silicone lids, which are structured instead of stretchy, and often come with a knob or handle on top such that you can use it in place of your pots’ and pans’ lids as well. However, I work in a small kitchen with limited cabinet space, so the ability to simply scrunch up the GIR Stretch Covers and store them in tight spaces won out.
They’re Also Super Durable
As someone who almost always has multiple projects going on simultaneously in the kitchen, it’s extremely helpful (and more environmentally friendly!) to not end up with a huge pile of plastic wrap at the end of the cooking day. From chilling cookie batter to storing cream cheese frosting, these covers have simplified my baking processes significantly, especially for someone who used to have too much trouble fighting the serrated edge of a plastic wrap dispenser. When I’m done with the GIR Stretch Covers, I place them right in the dishwasher. After nearly a year of use and many dishwasher cycles, they have kept their form. It also helps that they’re safe to use in the freezer, microwave, and oven—though I haven’t tried that last one quite yet.
FAQs
Are silicone lids and covers safe to use?
Yes, silicone lids are safe to use. They are made from a heavy-duty, food-grade material that is BPA-free, and non-toxic, making them safe for the microwave as well.
How long does a silicone lid or cover last?
Silicone lids are pretty low-maintenance, so as long as you don’t treat them poorly, they can last you from years to a lifetime.
How do you use a silicone lid or cover?
For the covers, just stretch it over any vessel from a can of chickpeas to a pot of oatmeal. If you’re using a lid, simply place it over your container of choice. Both options provide a certain amount of suction, so you won’t have to worry much about spillage for quickly transporting food.
What is the best way to clean a silicone lid or cover?
While they’re incredibly easy to wash by hand, silicone lids and covers are generally dishwasher-safe.