Over the past few years I’ve tried numerous storage containers from Rubbermaid, Sterilite and Cambro and what I ended up with was a lot of containers that didn’t stack properly, odd sized lids floating around and a real nightmare when I had to look for something. I originally purchased the small cases for the Lego figures that have overflowed from the other containers we were using. Generally the boys stored smaller Lego elements inside the flat tackle boxes [used for storing fishing gear] but since we are always adding sets, several of the smaller sections just aren’t adequate to keep the pieces organized. When I picked up the Rubbermaid Snap Cases [smallest size – 2281] they boys rolled their eyes because it meant that they would once again have to shift around the pieces into the new boxes. I assured them that if these cases worked out I’d replace all of the others that they have so they could have cases that stacked properly and make it easier to find what they were looking for. We’re now in the process of converting most of the Lego pieces to these cases since they are easy to use, extremely sturdy and clear – and the suggested retail price makes it affordable as well.

The Basics

The Rubbermaid Snap Cases are made of a very thick clear plastic with a strong snap on the front of them. How strong are the cases? Ask my 60-pound son that enthusiastically volunteered to jump on them to test them out. He’ll tell you how strong they are! Outside of the fact that they are well made and durable, they are also stackable. There are ridges on the top of the cases with a grooved base on the bottom. When stacked they interlock with each other – this means that you’ll be able to have as many as you want stacked up without worrying that they’ll be sliding all over the place. Since my initial purchase I’ve stocked up on these for use in the kitchen, bathroom and for small craft projects. They come in three sizes so no matter what you are looking to store, there is most definitely a size available so you have no excuses for not getting organized.

Just so you can get an idea of the sizes and what you can do with them, I’ve broken them down for you below. These are just suggestions and things that I’ve done with them, so don’t feel limited – one of the best things about storage containers is that they have unlimited uses around the house, in the garage or even when traveling. How many times have you gone on vacation and had to hunt through bags and suitcases to find a brush or comb? Well, I have – too many times – so now when we are planning any type of trip – two hours, two days or two weeks – I toss the essentials into one of these containers so I can get to them quick and avoid a lot of wasted time and frustration. You’ll have a somewhat weatherproof, strong, clear storage case with a strong snap lock to protect whatever items you need to store. Consider this an essential for anyone that travels by car for business – you can keep clean clothes in the large case, shaving / beauty accessories in the middle sized one and have them all at the tip of your fingers in the trunk of your car.

Prices on these range from $1.99 to $5.99 and can be found in the plastics or storage container section of your favorite retail store. I purchased most of the ones we own from Wal-Mart but Target has also recently started to stock these. If you are having trouble locating them, you can check the Rubbermaid website at www.rubbermaid.com to find stores in your area that carry their line of products. For the price I think that these are a great bargain. If they can stand up to being opened and closed all the time by the boys and not show even the least bit of wear – then they are a great product in my book.

Snap Case I 2281 4.5 x 8 x 14

This is the size that we have the most of and visually it looks a lot like the plastic show box style storage cases. The nice part is that the lid is hinged so you won’t have to hunt it down. The boys use these to store their Lego figures, markers, art supplies, flash cards and things that would generally be left laying around. These are also great for in the kitchen to store season packets and spice containers, cookie cutters, cake decorations, medications and more. Since they stack easily you can have several of them on the shelf in a closet to try and keep clutter to a minimum. If you are putting together a first aid kit, this is the perfect size to use for in the home or in your vehicle.

Snap Case II 2282 4 x 14 x 10.5

The middle sized case in the series, this one that is great for pencils, pens, make up tools [brushes, Q-Tip’s, make up applicator sponges etc] and greeting cards. If there is one thing I hate is having to run out at the last minute and getting a birthday card so I stock up on them every few months and keep them from getting bent or lost by keeping them safe in this container. If you have a lot of magazines [crafts, hobbies etc] this is the perfect sized container to keep them neat and organized. When I first saw this one I thought it would be a great thing to keep all the Lego magazines in so they wouldn’t get beat up or ripped but after trying it out I found that I’d need about four of them so it was easier to purchase a plastic tote and store them that way.

Snap Case III 2283 6.25 x 17.5 x 14

This is the perfect size for storing clothing, children’s shoes, craft items, seasonal goods such as decorations or ornaments, toys, beauty products, school projects and large items. I have several of these in the garage for storing odds and ends, tools and light bulbs. Instead of the single front snapping lock, this one has two so you won’t have to worry about it coming open at the wrong time. Depending on how much room you have under your bed, these are great for keeping stray items out of sight. Just like the others in the series, they have the ability to stack nicely, are clear and made of a sturdy and durable plastic.


The Bottom Line

All three of these storage containers are great for getting rid of clutter, toys, storing photos, school supplies, crafts and more. They are extremely strong and sturdy and will hold up to almost any amount of use and abuse without breaking, cracking or falling apart. My boys have since fallen in love with these and are slowly converting all their older storage bins, cases and containers to these. These can also be decorated with t-shirt puffy paints, stickers or craft items to make them a little more personalized. The largest size makes for a great gift container for baby showers, stuff it will all the small things a new mom will needs, add some bows and you have a great looking unique gift – plus the container eliminates the need for a box or gift wrap and can be used over and over again.

As always, thanks for the visit!

^V^ Freak ^V^

© 2003 Freak369


Other Rubbermaid product reviews…

• Rubbermaid Laundry Basket • Rubbermaid Blue Ice Mini Freezer Pack • Rubbermaid Take-Alongs 9 Ounce Sip Cup • Rubbermaid Servin’ Saver Egg Keeper • Rubbermaid Take-Alongs Rectangle • Rubbermaid Ice Cube Bin • Rubbermaid Take-Alongs Chug Bottle 17 Ounce • Rubbermaid Take-Alongs Deep Square • Rubbermaid Snap Case Series •









Recommended: Yes