Published July 28, 2026 · Reviewed by the Unbiased Advice & Insights editorial team · How we research and score
Most leaks come from a worn gasket, an improperly closed lid, a crack, or overfilling. Inspect the gasket and lid, clean them, and ensure the lid is fully snapped shut. If the gasket is damaged, replace it. If the lid is cracked, replace the container.
Why It Happens
On Go containers are popular for meal prep and storage, but leaks can occur for several common reasons. Understanding the cause is the first step to a fix.
Worn or misaligned gasket: The silicone or rubber gasket creates the seal. Over time it can dry out, crack, or become stretched. Food particles can also prevent it from seating properly. For example, a gasket that has been washed hundreds of times may lose its flexibility, leading to small gaps. Even a tiny grain of rice stuck under the gasket can cause a leak.
Improper closure: The lid must be fully snapped or screwed on. A small gap can cause liquid to escape. Some On Go lids have multiple locking tabs; all must be engaged. If you only press the center, the corners may remain unsealed. A common mistake is not aligning the lid's arrows or markers before closing.
Cracked lid or container: Dropping the container or exposing it to extreme heat (like a microwave without venting) can cause hairline cracks. Even a tiny crack will leak. Cracks often appear near the hinge of the lid or at the corners of the base. A drop from counter height onto a tile floor can create a stress fracture that is invisible to the naked eye but leaks under pressure.
Overfilling: Filling past the fill line or too close to the rim leaves no room for pressure changes. When the container is moved or heated, liquid is forced out. For example, filling a container to the brim with soup and then stacking it in a lunch bag can cause the lid to bulge and leak. Similarly, microwaving a full container without venting can cause steam pressure to push liquid past the seal.
Thermal shock: Sudden temperature changes, like moving a container from the refrigerator directly into a hot dishwasher, can warp the plastic or gasket, breaking the seal. This is especially common with older containers that have become brittle.
How to Fix (Numbered Steps)
- Check the gasket: Remove the gasket and inspect for cracks, brittleness, or deformation. Wash it with warm soapy water and dry it. Reinstall it carefully, making sure it sits evenly in the groove. Use a soft brush to clean the groove where the gasket sits, as residue can prevent a tight seal.
- Inspect the lid and container: Look for cracks, especially around hinges and corners. Run your finger along edges; a crack may feel sharp. Fill with water, close, and tilt to find the leak source. For a more thorough test, add a drop of dish soap to the seam and press; bubbles will indicate a leak.
- Test the seal: After cleaning, close the lid and press gently. You should feel resistance. If the lid closes too easily, the gasket may be too worn to seal. A good test is to fill the container with water, close it, turn it upside down, and shake gently. No water should escape.
- Replace the gasket: If the gasket is worn, order a replacement from On Go or a compatible third-party brand. Install it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure the new gasket is the exact size and shape; an ill-fitting gasket can cause leaks.
- Adjust your filling: Leave at least half an inch of headspace. For liquids, do not fill above the indicated max line. Allow hot food to cool before sealing to reduce internal pressure. When freezing, leave even more space because liquids expand.
- Use proper closure technique: Align the lid arrows or markers, press down all sides, and listen for clicks. For screw-on lids, tighten until snug but do not overtighten. Overtightening can warp the gasket or strip the threads.
- Clean regularly: After each use, wash the gasket and lid groove to remove food debris. Avoid abrasive sponges that can scratch the gasket. Dry thoroughly before storing to prevent mold growth.
Preventive Maintenance
To extend the life of your On Go containers, follow these tips:
- Hand wash gaskets and lids instead of putting them in the dishwasher, as high heat can degrade rubber.
- Store containers with lids slightly ajar or removed to allow airflow and prevent odor buildup.
- Do not stack heavy items on top of containers, as weight can distort the lid.
- Replace gaskets annually if you use the container daily.
- Avoid using the container for carbonated beverages, as pressure can cause leaks.
When to Replace
If the gasket is damaged and replacements are unavailable or if the container or lid has a crack, replacement is the safest option. Cracks cannot be reliably repaired with glue because food safety and seal integrity will be compromised. Also, if the container has been used for many years and the plastic is cloudy or warped, it is time for a new one. Check the current price on Amazon for a replacement On Go container set.
For minor gasket issues, a simple cleaning or replacement can restore the leak-proof seal. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions, and avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the gasket. If you have tried all the steps above and the container still leaks, it is likely that the lid or base has a hidden defect, and replacement is the only reliable solution.
More guides
See our full buying guides hub and our research and scoring methodology. We compared specifications and verified owner feedback; we did not physically test every product.