The Best Bread Boxes (Review) in 2020
Bread bins are back! After decreasing in popularity for a few decades, the humble bread bin is making a return to kitchens all over the country and they are doing it in style. As householders become increasingly interested is specialist and artisan breads and in home-baking, they need somewhere stylish and practical to keep their baked products and bread keepers are the obvious solution.
Bread bins are basically boxes that help to maintain the freshness of your bread by controlling the amount of air that gets to it. There is no way of keeping bread fresh for long periods of time. It is a product that is designed to be eaten quickly. However, bread keepers are the best method available for extending shelf life for a long as possible. They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and you will have a lot of options! To help you make the right choice, check out our guide to the best bread boxes.
Maximum storage capacity: 2 loaves of bread
High quality stainless steel with matte design
Box base with knob patterns and integrated noise dampening plastic stop
Measures 6.8 inches high, 17.5 inches wide, and 10.6 inches deep
Retro-designed bread box made of powder-coated sheet steel
Heavy-duty metal hinges and handle
Integrated freshness-keeping ventilation holes
Measures 6.7 inches high, 16.5 inches wide, and 9 inches
Expandable, transparent acrylic bread box
Adjustable integrated air vents
Dishwasher-safe design
Measures 11 inches wide, 7 inches high, and 6.75 inches deep
The Best Bread Box
1.
Brabantia Roll Top Bread Box
This sleek and practical bread box is available in several finish/color combinations to suit your kitchen style. It has a compact design and will take up little room on your kitchen counter, yet it is large enough to accommodate two loaves.
It has a roll lid and a flat top design to save space and provide additional storage. It features a plastic stop to cut down on noise and a textured base to maximize ventilation and keep baked items fresher for longer. It has a matte steel design that does not show up fingerprints as well as being durable and resistant to corrosion.
2.
Progressive Expandable Bread Keeper
The innovative design of this bread keeper will help to maintain the freshness of all your baked goods. To save on space, it collapses and expands (maximum 11 inches) to fit your loaf of bread.
There are air vents which can be adjusted to let air flow into its interior. It even comes with a durable cutting board so you can slice off however much bread you need. For easy cleaning, this bread box is dishwasher safe.
3.
Creative Co-op Enameled Metal Distressed White Bread Box
This stylish bread bin in a distressed white metal finish will look great in any kitchen and is also available in other colors. It is just the right volume for a single loaf of bread and will fit neatly on the counter top. It has a large feature handle on the top and bold black lettering on the front.
There are two further handles on each side to balance the look. You can also use it for storing other kitchen items and recipe books. It can be hand washed only.
4.
Culinary Couture Large White Bread Box
You can extend the shelf life of baked products and protect them from insects and dirt with this large bread box. It comes with a lid that fits securely yet has small holes to allow air circulation to maintain the freshness of your bread.
The sleek, vintage design has been created to take up the minimum of counter space but provides enough storage for bread, bagels, baguettes and all your baked goods. It is made from powder-coated metal and has a polished finish that will not corrode and will last for years. It’s attractive enough to make a great gift and comes with a free ebook packed with bread-making tips and recipes.
5.
Cooler Kitchen Extra Large Vertical Bread Box
With this bread box, soggy or stale bread will be a thing of the past. It will allow your baked products to breathe so they stay fresh and crisp. It has a seal but is not completely airtight, the moisture generated from the bread can rise and leave the box so the conditions are not so suitable for mold growth. Boxes that are completely sealed can make bread doughy but this box can extend the shelf life of bread by days.
This bread box has room for two loaves of bread but takes up little space – the lid is flat so you can store things on it. The bamboo wood lid can be used as a cutting board – the crumbs fall into the grooves and then back into the bread box so reducing mess. You can pop the box into the dishwasher but the lid needs to be wiped down with soap and water. The stylish painted metal exterior will not show up sticky fingerprints or smudges
6.
Betwoo Natural Wooden Roll Top Bread Box
Here we have a bread box with a stylish classic design that combines contemporary innovation with practicality. It can be used to store all sorts of goods in the kitchen but could also be used as a desktop organizer. It has a sliding door which opens and closes very smoothly using the matching wooden knob.
It is made from natural bamboo wood which looks great in any kitchen and is very easy to clean. The bread box will not be able to withstand extreme changes in temperature or very humidity so place it in a well-ventilated position.
7.
Oggi Stainless Steel Roll Top Bread Box
This classic stainless steel bread box can be supplied with a tempered glass roll top lid or a stainless steel lid. It has a stainless steel handle and comes with rubber feet to make sure that it does not damage your kitchen countertops.
It is very useful for storing bread as well as rolls and muffins. It is durable and strong, it maintains freshness and keeps crumbs in one place.
8.
Cookbook People Original Rolltop Bread Box
If you are looking for a tough and attractive bread box that can withstand a lot of weight, this is the product for you. It is made from 100% solid bamboo wood and contains no particle boards. This makes sure that it is sturdy and durable.
It has a sliding lid that opens up all the way to the back wall so that you can get at the bread and to maximize the internal space.
9.
Brabantia Fall Front Bread Box
The sleek design of this bread box will look great in any kitchen. It has a matte steel finish that will not show up fingerprints and greasy smudges and will not corrode. The rectangular design saves space and provides a flat top so that it fits neatly under wall units and shelves and provides a flat surface for storage.
There is enough room for two loaves of bread and a few rolls as well. It has been made with a fall front opening and closes with an innovative magnetic seal that does not damage the bread but helps it to stay fresh for longer. Included in the pack are hanging eyes in case you want to attach it to a wall or to the door of a kitchen unit to free up counter space.
10.
Home Basics Retro Bread Box
Just what you have been looking for to keep your bread and baked goods fresh. You can also use this bread box for other groceries. The attractive, modern rounded design is available in four chic colors and will look amazing in any kitchen.
It’s made from powder coated steel which is strong and durable and will not rust or tarnish. The hinged lid lifts up using just one hand and you can use the other hand to pop in the bread. The strong handle at the front makes it even easier
11.
Bloomingville Metal Bread Bin
This product is made from metal and bamboo wood which gives a sophisticated finish that looks great in a modern kitchen. It provides protection for your bread and helps to keep it fresh whilst reducing mold growth.
It is a beautiful reproduction of the vintage bread boxes that were popular last century. It has a lovely enameled surface that shines and is finished off with an attractive bamboo lid.
12.
Anchor Hocking Steel Bread Box
A classic and functional bread bin that will not take up too much space in your kitchen but which is big enough to hold two loaves of bread. It has a half-domed lid which slides upwards inside the bin and therefore saves on space. The large knob makes it easy to open with one hand.
It is a durable stainless steel bread bin that has a brushed metal finish. It is easy to clean by wiping it down and will help to retain crumbs in one place.
13.
All-Green Products Vintage Bread Box
Take a trip down memory lane with this vintage, retro bread box. It has a sleek design and a bright yellow color so it will really stand out on your counter top. It will allow just the right amount of air to circulate so your breads and pastries stay fresh for longer. Thanks to the cold-rolled steel construction which is 0.5 mm thick it is durable and resistant to dents.
This bread bin has a powder coated finish which is smooth and easy to clean. If bright yellow is not to your taste, you could opt for one of the many other color options including orange, teal, brown or ivory. With this bread bin, you get a free butter dish and an ebook all about bread! It would make a great Christmas or house-warming gift.
14.
Greenco Stainless Steel Bread Bin
This lovely classic bread bin is available in red or stainless steel. You will be able to fit two full loaves of bread into it or an assortment of rolls and buns. They will all stay fresh for longer and your kitchen will look neat and tidy.
It is strong and durable and made from 18/0 stainless steel fitted into a strong black plastic frame. At the front, there is a door that smoothly rolls up and provides a large access area. There are also small holes at the rear of the bread bin which allow a controlled amount of air to enter. This helps to reduce humidity and stops mold from forming on the bread.
15.
Wesco Grandy Steel Bread Box
Just what you are looking for to inject some retro, vintage style into your kitchen décor. This bread bin is a throwback to the 1940s and brings timeless elegance to your kitchen counter tops. It has plenty of volume and can store a full loaf of bread and plenty of other baked products.
Thanks to the ventilation holes that are cleverly positioned at the back of the bread bin, your bread and pastries will get plenty of ventilation and will stay fresher for longer. It has been manufactured from powder coated steel sheets and has metal handles and hinges for strength. To keep it clean, you just wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Best Bread Box Buying Guide & FAQ
Things to Consider When Buying a Bread Keeper
Before you go out and buy a bread keeper, check out our list of the things you should consider.
- The best bread boxes will not take up too much room on your kitchen counters. Most of them are designed to store a maximum of two loaves of bread. If space is at a premium in your kitchen, you may want to store a smaller version that just holds one loaf of bread.
- A bread holder can be made from stainless steel, powder-coated metal, wood or even ceramic. Each of these materials has advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, weight, durability and appearance. In the end, it comes down to personal preference.
- The shape of your bread bin is important. It must be able to fit into the space that you have in your kitchen. Remember that there will be a door that you need to open or a lid that you need to take off. Many have a flat top surface so that you can use it for storage to make the most of the space that you have.
- Bread bins need to have some ventilation but not too much. If a lot of air is allowed to reach the bread, there will be a lot of evaporation from the surface and it will quickly dry out. If there is not enough ventilation, the humidity will rise and this will make the bread soggy and encourage mold growth. Some bread bins have built-in holes or vent panels.
- Door/lid. Think about what type of door or lid would suit you most. Would you like a hinged or roll-up door or a lift-off lid? Do you need to be able to operate it one-handed?
- How easy is it to keep the bread bin looking clean and tidy? Can you wipe it down? These are important considerations.
Benefits of Using Bread Bins
Bread bins were very popular several decades ago but then went out of fashion. They are now making a comeback, largely due to the popularity of artisan breads and the trends in home bread baking. There are several benefits of investing in a bread bin for your kitchen but it is important that you are also clear about what they cannot do.
Sadly, there is no perfect way to store fresh bread unless you freeze it. Bread is a short lifespan product. It is designed to be eaten within a few days of purchase and there is no such thing as a bread box that can extend this period to several weeks! There is nothing that can stop bread from eventually drying up or getting moldy.
Having said that, there are several benefits of getting a bread box.
- Maintains the best balance of ventilation: If your bread is in a humid environment, it will go moldy. If it is in a dry environment it will go hard. A bread bin will maintain the optimum balance of humidity so that the taste and texture of your bread are preserved for longer. However, there is a limit.
- Is better than leaving bread out: If you simply leave bread out on the counter, it will become crispy very quickly, will get contaminated by dust (and possibly germs) and could attract rodents such as mice.
- Is better than putting bread in the fridge: Bread that has been in the fridge is very dry and does not have a great taste.
- Is better than storing in a plastic bag: Bread that is stored in a plastic bag will get very soggy and soft. Because its moisture content will get very high, it will also support fungal growth so you will get mold spots.
- Is better than putting it in a paper bag: A paper bag offers little protection for bread and it will soon dry out.
- They store other things: Don’t just put bread in your bread box! Use it for bagels, rolls, croissants and any other baked goods.
- They keep the kitchen looking neat: Half used loaves of bread and packets of bagels look very scruffy on the countertop. Keep your kitchen looking neat by packing them away in a stylish bread box.
- They provide a cutting surface: Many bread boxes have a built-in bread board which may be inside the box or may be part of the lid. This is very useful for protecting your kitchen counters when you are slicing bread.
- They contain crumbs: Bread and other baked goods can really mess up your kitchen with stray crumbs. A bread box helps you to keep this mess contained.
- They look good: Part of the reason for the recent rise in popularity of bread boxes is that they look so good! There are endless styles and colors to choose from so you can get one to suit any kitchen.
Types Of Bread Boxes
There are many different types of bread keeper to chose from. They come in many different shapes and sizes. However, the main decision that you will have to make is the material that the bread box is made from. This is a matter of personal preference as there are advantages and disadvantages to each one. Here are your main choices
- Stainless steel bread keeper: These have a shiny or matte exterior but have a silver/gray metallic look. A metal bread box is solid and durable and will resist rust. However, they can show up fingerprints and greasy smudges. The modern designs are made of a special material that will not show up marks so this is not as big a problem as it once was. The problem with lightweight stainless steel is that it can dent easily.
- Enamel or powder coated bread keeper: These are also made of metal but they have a glossy coating that can be any color and have a retro style. You will be able to get one to suit your color scheme and it can have letters printed on it. The word ‘BREAD’ is a popular option. The coating makes the retro bread box more durable and prolongs its life because the base metal is protected.
- Wooden bread keeper: A wooden bread box is the obvious choice if you are aiming for a country or rustic look in your kitchen. It is a natural material that provides ventilation. However, some woods (such as bamboo) not stand up well to extreme changes in temperature or to very high humidity. This means that they would not suit some kitchens.
- Plastic bread keeper: These are often transparent so that you can see how much bread you have left without opening the bread bin. Often, they are made of melamine but this can be combined with other plastics. This type of bread bin is lightweight and can be adjusted in size to accommodate your loaf which is a space-saving design feature.
- Ceramic bread keeper: These are easy to clean and attractive but are heavy so they may not suit you if you want to move your bread holder around. They are available in all sorts of colors so if you have your heart set on a red bread bin or a black bread bin then this could be the best choice for you. Some have loose fitting lids and others have rubber seals which keep out more air and keeps bread fresher for longer.
- Wicker bread keeper: These provide very little protection and let a lot of air get at the bread. Therefore, you need to keep the bread in a plastic bag! These are really just somewhere to keep the bread out of sight and they do not preserve freshness.
Bread bins also come in many different shapes. They can be shaped like a box or may look like a crock with a lid. To open them, you may have to use a hinged door at the front, a roll up door at the front or lift off a lid at the top.
Best Bread Box FAQ:
Q: What is a bread box?
A: As the name suggests, a bread box is a container that sits on the kitchen countertop and is used for storing breads and baked products. They are also referred to as bread bins. Most are large enough to accommodate one or two loaves of bread. They can be made out of plastic, metal or wood and may have a door at the front or a lift-off lid.
Bread boxes come in all sorts of styles and colors to suit all types of kitchen. Some have a classic roll lid style, some are ultra-modern and sleek and some have retro chic.
Q: Do bread bins keep bread fresher?
A: It is impossible to keep any sort of bread fresh for more than a few days wherever you store it. The only way to do this would be to freeze it. The best way to store bread for just a couple of days is at room temperature because if you put it in the fridge it tends to get hard. Bread bins do help to preserve the taste and texture of bread at room temperature.
They also help to keep out mold spores and other types of dirt from around the kitchen. Many bread boxes have small vent holes to allow a little airflow and prevent condensation and mold growth.
A top tip is to avoid overcrowding your bread storage box. An overcrowded bread box will be very humid and this will encourage mold to grow.
Q: Should a bread box be airtight?
A: The best bread bins are not airtight. You may think that it is a good idea to store bread in an airtight container because it keeps it fresh but that is not the case. It is better if there are small vent holes that allow a limited amount of airflow.
If there is no airflow around the bread, moisture and condensation will build up. This will soon lead to mold growth which will completely ruin the bread. This is why many bread boxes have loose lids or vents and are not completely sealed.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick of the best bread box is sleek and practical. This bread keeper has a compact design and will take up little room on your kitchen counter yet it is large enough to accommodate two loaves.
This stainless steel bread box has a roll lid and a flat top design to save space and provide additional storage. It features a plastic stop to cut down on noise and a textured base to maximize ventilation and keep baked items fresher for longer. The matte steel will not show up fingerprints as well as being durable and resistant to corrosion.
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