From the pantry to the fridge, glass storage jars are a kitchen staple. They come in many shapes and sizes and work well for a variety of purposes, from freezing leftovers to stashing pantry items like pasta, grains and spices. They’re also a favorite among bakers for nurturing their sourdough starters. And thanks to a hermetic seal, they keep foods fresh and help prevent spoilage.

But not all glass containers are created equal. Three different types of glass are used in the production of jars, bottles and windows: untreated soda-lime glass (the type you’ll find in the average Mason jar), tempered glass and borosilicate glass. Untreated glass is the most affordable but it’s not good at handling large temperature changes and can shatter when it comes into contact with cold temperatures or high heats. Tempered glass, which is often used for jars, is better at this but it still can break if it’s subjected to extreme heat or cold. Borosilicate glass does the best job of tolerating big temperature changes but it’s more expensive than either tempered or untreated glass.

Glass is also a great option for storing freezer meals, says Ali Rosen, author of Modern Freezer Meals and owner of Thee Tailored Life—but you should choose a set that’s labeled so that everyone in the household knows what goes where. “The jars should be clear or have easy-to-read labels on them so that everyone can see what’s inside,” she says. “This will avoid confusion and also ensures that you’re not using food that has expired.”

Other benefits of glass containers:

Aside from their ability to handle a wide range of temperatures, one of the most significant advantages of glass is its durability. It can withstand a lot more abuse than other materials, and it’s not susceptible to the buildup of bacteria that can be found on plastic containers. Plus, it’s an environmentally friendly material that can be recycled endlessly without losing its quality or weight.