One of the biggest things that moms struggle with during the school year is lunches. Figuring out what to send, how to get it there, and how you can make sure it’s still edible when lunchtime rolls around.
As we work to pack zero-waste lunches, there are quite a few companies helping us out with some great compartment-style lunch boxes. Also known as bento-style lunch boxes, these sets are perfect for kids who like variety and also for those who don’t want their food to touch.
- Kids Conserve($36) – This kit is an eco-friendly version of the old fashioned brown bag. You can use it for packing school lunches, picnics or on-the-go snacks. Use the entire kit or the individual components in your existing lunch boxes. Lunch kit includes recycled cotton sack, cloth napkin, 304 (18/8) food-grade stainless steel beverage bottle, food kozy, two 8-ounce 304 (18/8) food-grade leak-proof stainless steel containers, and a recycled aluminum name tag.
- Goodbyn ($17 & $26)- Available in 2 sizes for pre-schoolers and older kids, the Goodbyn utilizes different compartments to keep kids’ lunches from spilling, sloshing or mixing. Made entirely of FDA-approved materials, the Goodbyn lunchbox is dishwasher-safe and made to last. And when it’s time for a new one, the Goodbyn lunchbox is 100 percent recyclable.
- Yubo ($30) – this easy to use lunchbox is both customizable and easy to use. It is BPA-free, phthalate-free, and lead-free and 100% dishwasher safe (excluding faceplates). Deluxe model comes with includes containers & ice pack. Plus, when your children are done with it – it’s 100% recyclable!
- Laptop Lunches($40) – This lunchbox comes with 5 Inner Containers: two large inner containers = 1-1/4-cup and 1-2/3-cup (one with lid), two small inner containers = 3/4-cup and 2/3-cup (one with lid), one- 1/8-cup dip container (with lid). The carry bag has built-in velcro mesh pouch for ice pack (not included), front expandable pocket for additional items, and a side mesh pocket to fit a drink bottle. The containers are microwave safe (not lids) and dishwasher safe (top rack) The set is free of PVC, phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA) and lead.
- Lunchsense lunchbox ($35 – 50) – Available in 3 sizes, this system will not only keep your child’s lunch organized, but it folds out to be a placemat as well! The smaller kit, which is about the size of a small paper bag, comes with two separate, removable trays that hold about 5 ounces each, one 1 ounce container, one 8 ounce drink bottle, and one ice pack.
- Oots Lunchbox ($35)- This contemporary lunch box features a stacked design that prevents food from being tossed around. Cleaning is easy and the use of space is optimal with custom containers that comfortably fit inside. Plus, the lid of the Lunchbox is shaped to keep a water bottle in place, under an elastic strap.
- Planetbox Lunch Kit ($35 – $50)- Planetbox’ stainless steel lunch boxes are perfect for kids of all ages. They have made a kit that caters to the one child that likes variety and surprises, and the other that likes the familiarity of that same PB&J sandwich every day. Also available is a carry case and magnets to customize.
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