A Practical Guide to Reusable Silicone Stretch Lids

Silicone stretch lids either live in your kitchen drawer for years or get used twice and forgotten. The difference is almost always sizing. Here is how to get it right.

Measure the rim, not the bowl

A stretch lid seals against the outside rim. Measure the rim diameter straight across the top with a ruler, and match that - not the width of the bowl at its widest point. A lid stretches comfortably a little past its stated size. Forcing it much further is what makes it pop off an hour later.

They need a firm, smooth, dry edge

Stretch lids grip well on glass, ceramic, stainless steel and rigid plastic. They grip badly on soft or flexible containers, thin disposable cups, and rims that are chipped, ridged or wet. Dry the rim before you seal it - that one habit fixes most complaints about lids slipping.

Freezer, microwave, and what to avoid

Food-grade silicone handles freezer temperatures and ordinary microwave reheating. When microwaving, lift one edge or leave a small gap so steam can escape, otherwise pressure will push the lid off by itself. Keep silicone away from direct flame, stovetop burners and the grill element at the top of an oven.

Cleaning, and the smell problem

Warm soapy water and a rinse covers most of it, and they are dishwasher-safe on the top rack. Silicone does hold onto strong smells - garlic, curry, onion. Soaking in warm water with a spoon of baking soda usually clears it, and leaving them to dry in daylight helps.

When a stretch lid is the wrong tool

If you are carrying liquid in a bag, use a container with a locking lid instead. Stretch lids are made for covering and storing. They are splash-resistant, not leak-proof under pressure, and no amount of stretching changes that.

The sets we stock, with their sizes listed, are in Reusable living. Delivery timings are on our Shipping Policy page.