In testing the wheels did pop off of this bin—we think that’s due to the sheer weight and size of something this big taking a tumble down a flight of stairs—but we easily reattached them. quart, 19 quart, 30 quart, 41 quart, 46 quart, 62 quart, 74 quart, and 103 quart WEATHERTIGHT heavy-duty storage totes.

Several other Wirecutter staffers have used these bins for years, although a couple of people have noted that the bins can be smelly when you first get them. If you still prefer writing on the bins, we suggest dry-erase markers instead of Sharpies, particularly on clear storage containers. Why it’s great: The extra-large Sterilite 40 Gallon Wheeled Industrial Tote is helpful for anyone who struggles to carry heavy containers or for those who want to save multiple trips by filling one giant bin instead of several smaller ones. Not every bin needs to withstand heavy abuse, so we also considered some that were less durable but highly practical for storage. They fit neatly on my closet shelves, but they’re not firm enough to stack if I fill them with anything bulky or heavy.These containers are made with high-density polyethylene, a sturdier and more temperature-resistant plastic than the clear polypropylene containers we’ve tested, like the Iris Weathertight Totes. We tested three cloth storage containers and the iWill’s zippered top and structured sides made it the easiest to use. I have already put some food items in it and put it in the concrete outdoor shed we have to make sure that it can keep food dry.

Why it’s great: Take the Rubbermaid 24 Gallon ActionPacker camping or throw it in the back of your truck—it’s the best storage container we found for outdoor use. In addition, one Wirecutter staffer says that at her previous job people used these bins to haul AV equipment back and forth to various locations, and they were durable and comfortable to carry. If you do plan on packing one of these full to the brim, be mindful of weight (we’d recommend things like clothes and decorations over documents and dry goods).

If the ActionPacker is sitting outside for long periods, water will run off, so the lid won’t turn into a putrid pool (where bacteria and bugs can fester). We took particular note that commenters—ranging from a personal historian stowing photos and personal documents to small-apartment dwellers—rave about the watertight seal and neat stackability. Grooves on the lid are designed for a stable and secure stacking storage system allowing you to maximize your storage space and creates a customized storage solution. Read more about the condition New: A brand-new, unused, unopened and undamaged item in original retail packaging (where packaging is applicable).

If a container survived those tests, we filled it with household goods to see how much it held, if it closed when overstuffed, if it stacked securely, and how comfortable it was to carry. Over the years we’ve simulated flooding and water leaks by hosing the bins down, submerging them in a kiddie pool, and leaving them out in the rain overnight. The grooves in the reinforced lids means these 19 quart stackable totes with lids can be placed on top of each other to save space, stack two of the 6.

We’ve dropped them and tossed them down flights of stairs (which, we’ve found, is relaxing and pretty good for stress relief). These inexpensive, breathable boxes are better than plastic bins for clothes storage and they were the easiest to load and unload. New: A brand-new, unused, unopened and undamaged item in original retail packaging (where packaging .

It’s usually sold in a two-pack (Sterilite told us that it sells the bins to retailers in pairs), which may be more storage than many people need.

Nothing we tested, including the smaller and larger ActionPacker sizes, beat the 24-gallon size for its combination of durability, security, and portability. In testing we consolidated three bins of holiday decorations into the Sterilite and wheeled it into storage—quick and easy. After we threw it down the stairs, a few corners were a bit dented but the latches held and the lid stayed tightly closed.