Waterproof StowAway Utility Box vs K470 Aluminum Storage Case 40845: which is safer?

zarges K470 Aluminum Storage Case 40845 is the clear pick. Plano Waterproof StowAway Utility Box carries a failing PFAS grade, and we never recommend buying a failing product.

Plano

Waterproof StowAway Utility Box

PFAS grade

F 40/100

Overall grade

F 24/100

Verdict

Skip

Hazard flags

⚑ 4

Material

Plastic with waterproof coating, composition unspecified

Confidence

35%

PossibleWaterproof coating composition (PFAS or alternative fluorochemicals)

PossibleMicroplastics from coating wear and flexing

PossibleLeaching of coating additives into stored items

Why this grade

Our pick

Zarges

K470 Aluminum Storage Case 40845

PFAS grade

B 85/100

Overall grade

C 77/100

Verdict

Buy

Hazard flags

⚑ 2

Material

Aluminum with rubber gasket/hinges

Confidence

78%

PossibleAluminum corrosion and leaching

PossibleBacterial or mold growth in seal

Why this gradeBuy

Both products run through the same public rubric: materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls, plus a beyond-PFAS hazard analysis. Grades are model-based estimates, not lab tests. How grades work →

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