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While bread cannot be preserved indefinitely, a bread box is an effective method for extending shelf life and quality. Placing baked goods from the oven or bread maker in the fridge is a common mistake: Contrary to popular belief, lower temperatures actually make them go stale faster. Storing bread in a plastic bag or food storage container doesn’t provide air circulation, which can contribute to mold growth in humid climates.
Many bread keepers are designed with special air vents for optimal humidity and moisture levels. These vents allow enough air to circulate to keep bread soft, fresh, and free of mold. Bread boxes are particularly helpful when it comes to all-natural products; without preservatives, baked goods go stale faster than their modified counterparts.
In a dry environment, an attractive bread box without vents can lock in moisture, provide easy countertop access, and keep unsightly loaves hidden. Bread boxes can be both functional and stylish, with a variety of designs available to complement kitchen decor.
The guide below includes essential shopping considerations and well-designed products to help you select the best bread box for your home.
- BEST OVERALL: Home-it Stainless Steel Bread Box
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Culinary Couture Large Bread Box
- BEST DESIGN: Williams Sonoma Walnut Bread Box
- BEST LARGE: Luv Ur Kitchen Large Bread Box and Cutting Board
- BEST STAINLESS STEEL: Brabantia Roll Top Bread Box
- BEST CERAMIC: A.C.K. Trading Co. Tuscany Fleur De Lis Bread Box
- BEST BAMBOO: Laura’s Green Kitchen Double Layer Bread Box
- BEST NONVENTED WOOD: Premium Presents Large Bamboo Bread Basket
- ALSO CONSIDER: Home Basics Grove Bread Box
How We Chose the Best Bread Boxes
With such a huge selection of bread boxes on the market, our mission was to research and select the best options for shoppers to choose from. Our list of recommendations covers the various materials used in the most popular bread boxes, including metal, plastic, bamboo, and other types of wood. Depending on shoppers’ kitchen styles, our top picks cover a wide range of colors, styles, and sizes to suit almost any decor choice. Several of our options are also available in multiple colorways.
We made sure that all of our top picks offer the ideal environment for storing all types of baked goods, providing adequate airflow and maintaining ideal moisture levels for bread to stay fresher for longer.
Our Top Picks
With those shopping considerations in mind, the top picks represent quality bread boxes containing a variety of materials, styles, and features. The recommendations below are among the best bread box models for keeping bread fresh and adding style to any kitchen.
Best Overall
Home-it Stainless Steel Bread Box
The Home-it stainless steel bread box offers a large interior compartment to keep bread and other baked goods fresh. The bread box measures 8 inches tall by 16.5 inches long by 10 inches deep, with a roll-top door that closes and opens smoothly. The sleek stainless steel is protected by a plastic trim to prevent scratches. Special venting holes in the compartment optimize the humidity level and airflow.
This Home-it stainless steel bread box features a brushed exterior and shiny interior to complement modern kitchens and other stainless steel appliances. This bread box will preserve your baked goods or keep loaves soft for an affordable price.
Product Specs
- Price: $
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimensions: 8 inches tall by 16.5 inches long by 10 inches deep
Pros
- Stainless steel construction will blend well with styling of the best kitchen appliance brands
- Swing door opens smoothly and easily
- Large enough to store several baked goods
Cons
- Thinner metal construction; may feel quite flimsy to some users
Get the Home-it bread box at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Bang for the Buck
Culinary Couture Large Bread Box
The Culinary Couture large bread box accommodates larger loaves, pastries, bagels, and more with dimensions of 6.5 inches tall by 16.5 inches long by 8.9 inches deep. This minimalist-style bread bin can fit many types of kitchen decor—featuring a glossy powder-coated finish in a range of colors. The stainless steel bread bin won’t rust, corrode, or lose its shine.
The front lid contains secure metal hinges and closes firmly, while small screened holes in the back provide ventilation and ideal moisture to keep loaves fresh. Its price is comparable to others on the list, but the Culinary Couture bread box also comes with a bonus e-book containing helpful bread-making tips and recipes.
Product Specs
- Price: $$
- Material: Powder-coated stainless steel
- Dimensions: 6.5 inches tall by 16.5 inches long by 8.9 inches deep
Pros
- Available in multiple color options; can match any decor
- Powder-coated finish resists rust and corrosion
- Sturdy construction in an attractive retro design
Cons
- Some users reported that metal tends to dent easily
Get the Culinary Couture bread box at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Design
Williams Sonoma Walnut Bread Box
Shoppers looking to add to an already existing natural wood design in their kitchen might want to consider this solid walnut bread box from Williams Sonoma. With a transparent acrylic door, it can showcase fresh baked goods while simultaneously keeping them fresher for longer.
The wax and mineral oil finish creates a protective and gorgeous shine to help enhance the natural beauty of the American walnut wood. The ample size leaves plenty of space for a full loaf of bread plus extra room for individual baked goods.
Product Specs
- Price: $$$$
- Material: Walnut wood with transparent acrylic door
- Dimensions: 7.5 inches tall by 15 inches long by 9.5 inches deep
Pros
- Made from solid wood for a long-lasting bread box
- Transparent door allows users to showcase their baked goods
- Walnut grain and color provides a sophisticated look
Cons
- Acrylic door can smudge easily with fingerprints
Get the Williams Sonoma bread box at Williams Sonoma.
Best Large
Luv Ur Kitchen Large Bread Box and Cutting Board
Luv Ur Kitchen’s double-shelved bread box is a versatile solution for busy families looking to upgrade their kitchen. It offers a larger size suitable for bakery displays and kitchen countertops. The large transparent cabinet doors provide a peek at the homemade bread inside while maintaining the ideal environment for long-lasting fresh bread.
Bamboo construction offers a more sustainable wood option for eco-conscious shoppers. This bread box also comes with a small cutting board and stainless steel bread knife, offering a convenient way to slice and prepare snacks. When not in use, the knife fits into a storage groove inside the cutting board, and the board slides under the bread box for a clean and organized look.
Product Specs
- Price: $$
- Material: Bamboo
- Dimensions: 13.5 inches tall by 15 inches long by 9 inches deep
Pros
- Comes with a cutting board and bread knife
- Offers 2 shelves worth of space; great for large families
- Made using sustainable bamboo materials
Cons
- Some users have reported that doors may not close properly; preassembled holes don’t always line up perfectly
Get the Luv Ur Kitchen bread box at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Stainless Steel
Brabantia Roll Top Bread Box
Brabantia’s sleek stainless steel roll-top bread box has an ultramodern look. This high-end model contains a fingerprint-proof finish, so the brilliant silver surface will look clean for longer. The high-grade steel is incredibly durable and rust-resistant. The Brabantia bread box features a convenient flat upper surface for storing items on top and ventilation holes built into the base to maximize airflow.
The bread box has a spacious bin that can accommodate two large loaves. An easy-roll curved lid opens access to the bread, with a plastic door stop to cut down on noise. The Brabantia roll-top bread box is available in eight attractive metallic shades. It also comes in a medium-size model capable of storing two smaller loaves.
Product Specs
- Price: $$$
- Material: Steel
- Dimensions: 6.8 inches tall by 17.5 inches long by 10.3 inches deep
Pros
- Offers a sleek, functional design; fits with most kitchen decor
- Available in several metallic color options
- Easy-to-clean flat surfaces with no grooves for dirt to hide
Cons
- A little pricey for the size compared to similar options
Get the Brabantia bread box at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Williams Sonoma.
Best Ceramic
A.C.K. Trading Co. Tuscany Fleur De Lis Bread Box
This glazed ceramic bread box offers a hint of French decor on the countertop. The bread box is hand-painted in a cheerful red shade with black accents, featuring the fleur de lis symbol for a touch of elegance. This countertop bread box measures 10 inches tall by 12 inches long, which is suitable for smaller loaves or rolls, muffins, and pastries.
The Tuscany fleur de lis bread box is conveniently dishwasher-safe. This bread box does not contain ventilation; it’s more suitable for preserving dry bread or storing baked goods in the short-term. Baked goods are accessed using the top handle.
Product Specs
- Price: $$
- Material: Ceramic
- Dimensions: 10 inches tall by 12 inches long
Pros
- Fun design adds a pop of color to the kitchen
- Compact size is ideal for smaller kitchens with limited counter space
- Offers an alternative look compared to common bread boxes
Cons
- No ventilation holes; bread may not stay as fresh
Get the A.C.K. bread box at Amazon.
Best Bamboo
Laura’s Green Kitchen Double Layer Bread Box
The double-layer bread box from Laura’s Green Kitchen can hold three bread loaves in addition to muffins, pastries, rolls, or other small baked goods. This bread box has two shelves, so while it has a large capacity, the vertical storage won’t take up too much counter space. The bread keeper is made from engineered bamboo wood that’s sturdy and long lasting.
This bread box also includes air vents to ensure that the moisture levels stay in the ideal range to keep bread fresh. The front features a transparent plexiglass window for keeping an eye on loaves. This window is part of a pull-down door with a magnetic closure to keep it securely sealed when not in use.
Product Specs
- Price: $$
- Material: Bamboo
- Dimensions: 12.6 inches tall by 15.4 inches long by 9.9 inches deep
Pros
- Large enough to hold up to 3 loaves
- 2 separate shelves can help separate different types of bread and other baked goods
- Durable and sustainable bamboo construction that’s easy to assemble
Cons
- Acrylic windows are prone to scratching
Get the Laura’s Green Kitchen bread box at Amazon.
Best Ceramicbest Nonvented
Premium Presents Large Bamboo Bread Basket
This traditional bread keeper from Premium Presents is crafted with natural bamboo boards for added stability. The thoughtful design of this roll-top cover slides through polished grooves in the wood for a smooth open and close. It also features a flat top surface that offers additional kitchen storage.
A slotted handle in the front provides convenient portability for this model. Measuring 7 inches tall by 17.5 inches long by 11.25 inches deep, this bamboo bread box offers reasonable storage. It contains no vents and is most suitable for preserving bread short-term in a non-humid climate. This bread keeper does not require assembly and should be wiped clean with a dry cloth.
Product Specs
- Price: $
- Material: Bamboo
- Dimensions: 7 inches tall by 17.5 inches long by 11.25 inches deep
Pros
- Deep box size can hold multiple loaves of bread
- Large flat top provides an additional storage area
- Timeless classic design made with sustainable bamboo
Cons
- Roll-top door can get stuck if used too forcefully
Get the Premium Presents bread box at Amazon.
Also Consider
Home Basics Grove Bread Box
This attractive retro-style bread box can be a fun addition to the kitchen. In keeping with its unique 1950s aesthetic, the box features a rounded-corner design and engaging “bread” text along the front. It contains durable powder-coated steel that’s resistant to rust and tarnish. The front lid opens on riveted hinges for smooth one-handed operation and closes firmly over a wide array of baked goods.
With roomy dimensions of 6.75 inches tall by 16.5 inches long by 8.75 inches deep, two loaves of bread fit easily—kept fresh with hidden ventilation holes that let air flow freely, providing just the right amount of moisture. Home Basics offers the vintage-style Grove bread box in baby blue, red, black, and metallic shades.
What our tester says: Debbie Wolfe, Bob Vila writer and product tester, says about this bread box: “I picked this bread box because I needed a large container to hold a couple of loaves of bread, but I didn’t need anything fancy or complicated. I liked its simple yet stylish vintage aesthetic. It effectively keeps my bread fresh and safe from my counter-cruising cat, who loves to rip open the plastic on the loaves.”
Product Specs
- Price: $
- Material: Powder-coated stainless steel
- Dimensions: 6.75 inches tall by 16.5 inches long by 8.75 inches deep
Pros
- Large enough to hold 2 loaves of bread with plenty of headspace for taller items
- Keeps bread and other baked items fresh for days
- Rust-resistant exterior is easy to clean
Cons
- Due to its larger size, it does take up counter space; may not be ideal for smaller kitchens
Get the Home Basics bread box at Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Michaels.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Bread Box
As shoppers begin searching for a bread box, there are many different styles and options they can choose from. Bread boxes come in an array of sizes and materials to suit the needs of different homes. Knowing which features and design elements to look for will help simplify the decision-making process so shoppers can find a bread box they’ll be happy with.
Size and Shape
There are two main factors that can help shoppers decide how big the bread box should be. The first factor is how much bread they plan to store at one time. If users live alone or with just one other person, chances are they go through less bread than a large family. They’ll want to think about how many loaves of bread and other baked goods they typically have on the counter and look for a bread box that will offer enough space to keep them all fresh.
Shoppers will also want to consider the counter or pantry space that’s available. Before they begin shopping, they might want to figure out where they’d like to keep the bread box and then measure that space. They’ll want to avoid buying one that’s too big or awkwardly shaped. Even if space is limited, they may still be able to purchase a larger-capacity bread box, as there are multilevel options that have a small footprint. If living in a humid climate, opt for a larger bread box or be sure not to overstuff it; this can result in moisture buildup, which contributes to mold growth. Users can pack more into a bread box if they live in a dry climate.
Bread boxes with a rectangular base are among the most popular. Many bread boxes with a roll-top door feature a curved front. Some have a flat platform at the top for storing kitchen items. Overall, the shapes can vary quite a bit.
Material
It’s important to pay attention to the material of the bread box being considered, which can have a big impact on its performance and longevity. Bread boxes are commonly made of stainless steel, wood, ceramic, or food-grade plastic.
Stainless steel bread boxes are the most durable and often have a modern look. Wood offers a more traditional or rustic design. Some types, such as bamboo (a sustainable material), are eco-friendly. Ceramic bread boxes have a solid build and come in attractive designs; however, they may crack or chip if dropped on a hard surface.
Plastic models are usually the most affordable options, and some are clear, allowing users to check on bread quality without opening the lid. On the other hand, plastic bread boxes can have a cheap look to them and generally don’t offer much aesthetic appeal. A clear glass front on the bread keeper offers the same visibility benefit and looks nicer, without costing too much more.
The climate can impact which material will perform best. Mold spores can spread and grow quickly in a hot and humid kitchen. A wooden bread box is likely unsuitable—the wood may expand as it absorbs humidity, making it difficult to close or open the lid. Metal and plastic absorb heat, but as long as the bread box is not kept in direct sunlight and there’s adequate ventilation, these materials are fine.
On the other hand, in a dry climate, lack of moisture is the concern. Ceramic bread boxes don’t contain ventilation holes, so they’re great for sealing in moisture. They keep baked goods soft while protecting them from contaminants.
Lid Structure
Although it may not seem important, shoppers will also want to take the lid style into consideration. There are a variety of options out there, including magnetic, hinged, roll-top, flip-down, front, and top lids. The lid design doesn’t necessarily affect how the bread box will perform, but it can impact how easily users will be able to access their baked goods, as well as the overall aesthetic.
For added functionality, some bread boxes have a flat wooden lid on the top that doubles as a cutting board for slicing the bread.
Ventilation Capability
The primary goal when choosing a bread box should be to find a product that will keep loaves of bread and baked goods fresh. For optimal ventilation, the bread box must contain air vents or holes. Proper airflow and moisture levels will help keep the bread soft while also preventing it from getting moldy. These vents are usually hidden from view and barely noticeable.
Depending on how dry the environment is, ventilation may not be necessary. Vents may add to the drying process, resulting in hard bread. Additionally, if diners are consuming bread within a few days and just want the loaves to stay soft during that time, a completely sealed container is still safe.
Placement
In hot and humid environments, it’s best to keep the bread box away from direct sunlight and store it in a well-ventilated area (likely not in the pantry). In other climates, placement is more flexible; a bread box can be displayed and stored on the kitchen counter for easy access or in a cupboard or pantry.
If users plan to move the bread box around on their counters or bring it out to the table during meals, they may want to look for an option that is lightweight and easy to carry. Plastic is one of the lightest options, while ceramic tends to be heavy. Some bread boxes also have integrated handles on the side, which may be useful if a heavier model is chosen.
FAQs
If you still have queries about bread boxes, consult the frequently asked questions and their answers below.
Q. Is a bread box sometimes called anything else?
The term “bread box” is primarily used in America, in addition to “bread keeper.” In the UK, bread boxes are commonly referred to as “bread bins.”
Q. Do bread boxes keep bread from molding?
Most bread boxes are designed to preserve bread over time, but they won’t keep mold away indefinitely. Certain products are designed with vents or air holes to provide air circulation and keep the humidity at the right level to discourage mold growth.
Q. What should I look for in a bread box?
Choose a bread box that is appropriately sized for the storage needs of your household. If you want to preserve bread over several days, as opposed to just a day or two, look for a bread box with ventilation. Consider whether you want features like a clear window for checking the quality of your loaves and top storage for kitchen items. Keep in mind whether you prefer stainless steel, plastic, wood, or ceramic; wood designs are unsuitable for humid climates, and ceramic bread boxes do not contain ventilation.
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