LATCHING BUCKLES - Multiple latching buckles secures to the durable lid making it ideal for clothes storage, document storage, food storage, hunting gear storage, camping gear storage, tool storage, trunk storage and other items. 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. Both PP (PDF) and HDPE (PDF) will degrade eventually from exposure to oxygen and UV from sunshine—which can cause discoloration—but the bigger concern is cold. For everyday use inside the house, these tightly latching, clear containers are the most versatile we’ve found for storing clothes and other gear.

But if you live in a mild climate or aren’t worried about years-long durability we recommend them for garages and basements.

One reviewer uses them to stow Legos, and we saw several mentions of people keeping craft supplies in the boxes. Most purchases from business sellers are protected by the Consumer Contract Regulations 2013 which give you the right to cancel the purchase within 14 days after the day you receive the item. If you still prefer writing on the bins, we suggest dry-erase markers instead of Sharpies, particularly on clear storage containers. Though the container would probably need to be replaced after a major fall, your stuff would stay inside.

The Irises also stack more securely—each bin’s base sits snugly into a groove on the lid of the one below. Neither material should be affected by the hottest outdoor temperatures—weaker PP doesn’t break down until about 176 degrees Fahrenheit. The bins have stayed watertight when I’ve left some outside in the rain for weeks here in the Pacific Northwest, and even after they’ve lost a latch or two (which happens a lot), the seal still keeps moisture out. This amount includes seller specified domestic postage charges as well as applicable international postage, dispatch, and other fees. Not every bin needs to withstand heavy abuse, so we also considered some that were less durable but highly practical for storage.It’s made of a polypropylene and HDPE blend, so it’s stronger than the clear polypropylene Iris Weathertight Totes. 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. This bin is bigger than most people probably need (and more than most wirecutter staffers we asked actually want), but if you have the space, it’ll save some backaches. I have experience maintaining entire school libraries, keeping hundreds of yards of fabric organized, and storing and cataloguing the onslaught of sheets and blankets I’ve tested for Wirecutter.

Why it’s great: If you want bins for your garage, attic, or basement that can take a lot of abuse, we recommend the Rubbermaid Brute Totes.If the item comes direct from a manufacturer, it may be delivered in non-retail packaging, such as a plain or unprinted box or plastic bag. We like that this tote is easy to open, can withstand freezing temperatures and costs less than similar bins.