Most IKEA glass food storage containers, such as those in the IKEA 365+ and PRUTA lines, are designed to be freezer safe, but there are important caveats to know before putting them in the freezer.
IKEA 365+ glass containers: These are tempered soda-lime glass containers with plastic lids, and IKEA markets them as suitable for freezer, fridge, microwave, and oven use (within stated temperature limits, typically up to around 400–450°F/200–230°C for the glass itself, though the plastic lid should be removed before microwaving or ovening). They're generally considered freezer safe for storing leftovers, soups, sauces, and other foods.
PRUTA containers: These are plastic, not glass, but are also labeled freezer, microwave, and dishwasher safe.
Important precautions for any glass container in the freezer:
- Leave headspace: Liquids and many foods expand when frozen, so always leave at least half an inch to an inch of space at the top to prevent the glass from cracking under pressure.
- Avoid rapid temperature changes: Don't move a container straight from the freezer into a hot oven or microwave, and don't pour boiling liquid into a frozen glass container — thermal shock can crack or shatter glass, even tempered glass.
- Check the lid material: Plastic lids can become brittle in extreme cold over time and may crack more easily when removing them from a frozen container.
- Use the right glass: Not all glass is created equal; borosilicate and tempered soda-lime glass (like IKEA 365+) handle temperature changes better than untreated glass.
Because product lines and exact specifications can change, it's best to check the care label or IKEA's product page for the specific container you own, as it will list the exact safe temperature range and freezer compatibility for that item.