Frequently Asked Questions

Zip Top construction

Are Zip Top containers made from Food Grade Silicone?

Yes. In fact, Zip Top containers are made from pure Platinum Silicone, the highest-quality Food Grade Silicone available. You can rest easy knowing that Zip Top containers do not contain fillers that could leach into your food. All Zip Top silicone is made in the United States where we can ensure its purity and quality.

What is platinum silicone?

Zip Top containers are pure platinum-cured silicone (“platinum silicone” for short), the highest grade available that passes U.S. and European safety standards. It is food safe, microwave safe, freezer safe, and dishwasher safe. Other products may claim that their product is “food safe” but unless it is pure platinum silicone, you should be cautious of how it can be safely used.

Why is Zip Top better for your health?

Traditional plastic containers are petroleum based and can contain harmful chemicals. Because Zip Top containers are made from platinum silicone, it is free of BPA, lead, phthalates and PVC. It is also hypoallergenic.

Why is Zip Top better for the environment?

Zip Top containers are built to last and can potentially be used thousands of times replacing disposable plastic bags and containers which will reduce waste.

Are Zip Top containers recyclable?

Yes, at specific silicone recyclers. We are also working on a “take back” program where we will take back used Zip Top containers for a new upcycling program. All of our packaging is also recyclable.

Where are Zip Top containers made?

All Zip Top containers (including the silicone) and packaging are proudly Made in the United States of America.

Using Zip Top containers

Is Zip Top freezer safe?

Yes, Zip Top containers are completely freezer safe. Our thick silicone will not get brittle from freezing it frequently. Unlike plastic baggies, Zip Top containers are a one-piece design that won’t tear or burst in the freezer.

Is Zip Top dishwasher safe?

Yes! They were designed for the dishwasher, so all Zip Top containers have large rounded corners for easy cleaning. Most importantly, all Zip Top containers stay open for better cleaning and drying! They are top or bottom rack safe.

Can I microwave in Zip Top containers?

Yes! Zip Top containers are completely microwave safe. And because they do not contain any plastics, they will not leach harmful chemicals when used in a microwave.  Open corner before microwaving and be careful when contents are hot.

Will Zip Top stain?

Most foods will not stain your Zip Top containers. There are a few foods, however, which can stain pure silicone such as tomato sauce, curries, watermelon, cooked carrots and other red/orange foods.

Try rubbing with a baking soda and water mixture and let sit for 4 hours. Rinse well and then wash as usual.

Will Zip Top containers retain odors?

Food grade silicone is nonporous which inhibits bacterial growth and odors. However, some foods or dishwasher detergents can retain an odor.

For dishwasher detergents, It is best to choose dishwasher soap or detergents that do not contain essential oils, antibacterial agents or moisturizers. Gentler, more natural dishwasher soap/detergents work best to clean Zip Top containers, especially ones that are scent free.

For food odors, try rubbing with a baking soda and water mixture and let sit for 4 hours. Rinse well and then wash as usual.

Are Zip Top containers air-tight?

Zip Top containers seal differently than traditional plastic zippered baggies which have tiny, hard, flat plastic zippers. Zip Top containers have large, soft, rounded zippers that flex. Because of this, your containers may, at times, leak a small amount of air if squeezed. In addition, once sealed, because of the pull of the wide, rounded opening, air will sometimes want to seep back in. If so, the small amount of air in your Zip Top will act like air trapped in a typical lidded container.

Are Zip Top containers leak-proof?

Zip Top containers are designed to hold liquids upright in a kitchen environment. This is why every container says on the back to “keep liquids upright” (which is simple since all Zip Top containers stand up due to their sturdy flat bases).  When kept upright, Zip Top containers are completely leak proof.  Zip Top containers were never designed, for instance, to fill with water and hold upside down or for taking liquids on the go.

Can I use Zip Top containers to take soup and other liquids in my lunch box or backpack?

Zip Top containers are not designed for taking liquids on the go. Just like you would typically not take soup in a plastic zippered bag in your backpack, Zip Top containers are designed to hold liquids in a kitchen environment. This is why every container says on the back to “keep liquids upright” (which is simple since all Zip Top containers stand up due to their sturdy flat bases). Zip Top containers are wonderful on the go for leftovers, sandwiches, dry snacks, veggies, fruit, nuts, etc.

Will sealed Zip Top containers spill if they are knocked over?

In general, no. Because of the flexibility of silicone, they are durable and malleable when sealed. However, as stated in this FAQ, we recommend liquids be kept upright to be safe.

Can I sous vide in Zip Top containers?

We do not recommend completely submerging Zip Top containers in water for sous vide or other applications. Due to the flexible zipper seal, some water may, at times, seep into a fully submerged bag. However, Zip Top containers are great for steaming and cooking where the zipper seal may fully or partially be left open while heating.