Kids Lunch Boxes

Choosing Kids Lunch Boxes

There's no single lunch box that's perfect for every child. Some kids love a little bit of everything, while others are perfectly happy with a sandwich, a piece of fruit and a snack. The best place to start is with what your child actually eats, how much they need for the day and whether they'll be able to manage their lunch box on their own.

Bento Lunch Boxes for Kids

Bento lunch boxes are popular with families because they make it easy to pack a variety of foods without needing lots of little containers. Separate compartments give you somewhere to put sandwiches, fruit, veggie sticks, crackers and all those little extras that make up a school lunch.

Not all bento boxes have the same layout. Some have a larger section for a sandwich or wrap, while others have several smaller compartments that work well for kids who prefer to graze on different foods. Think about the lunches you usually pack before choosing a design. And if yoghurt, dips or other wet foods are on the menu, check which compartments are actually leakproof. Having separate sections doesn't necessarily mean liquids will stay put.

Stainless Steel Kids Lunch Boxes

Stainless steel lunch boxes are a popular choice for families who want something durable and reusable. They come in different sizes, with options ranging from simple open containers to divided designs that keep different foods organised.

It's worth looking at the whole lunch box, not just the stainless steel base. Some have lids, seals or clips made from other materials, and not every design is leakproof. If you're mainly packing sandwiches and dry snacks, you may not need a sealed design. If you're including wetter foods, check what the manufacturer recommends.

Will Everything Fit?

A lunch box might look roomy on the outside but still struggle to fit your child's favourite sandwich! Before choosing one, think about what you normally pack. Do you need space for a whole sandwich, a wrap, plenty of fruit or several smaller snacks?

For younger children, a smaller lunch box may be plenty, while older kids and bigger eaters might need more room. Check the size of the individual compartments as well as the overall box, particularly if your child likes sandwiches that aren't cut into tiny pieces. And don't forget to make sure it fits inside their insulated lunch bag or school bag.

What's the Difference Between Leakproof and Leak-Resistant?

This is worth paying attention to, especially if yoghurt, dips or juicy fruit regularly make their way into your child's lunch box.

A leakproof lunch box is designed to keep liquids contained when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. A leak-resistant design may handle moist foods or small spills but isn't necessarily suitable for liquids. Some lunch boxes are best kept for sandwiches, crackers and other relatively dry foods.

Also check whether the seal keeps food inside each individual compartment or simply stops it escaping from the lunch box altogether. There's a big difference between yoghurt staying in its own section and yoghurt ending up all over the sandwiches!

Can Your Child Open It Themselves?

A lunch box isn't much use if your child can't get into it when lunchtime arrives. Some lids lift off easily, while others have clips or latches that take a little more effort.

This is particularly important for children starting daycare, kindy or school. If possible, let your child practise opening and closing their lunch box at home. They'll feel more confident using it, and you'll know whether the clips and lid are manageable for little hands.

How Easy Is It to Clean?

After a long day, nobody wants to spend ages cleaning crumbs and squashed banana out of tiny corners. Lunch boxes with smooth surfaces, removable trays and easy-to-reach compartments can make washing up much simpler.

Check the care instructions before putting a lunch box in the dishwasher. Some are completely dishwasher safe, while others have lids or seals that need to be washed by hand. Give everything a thorough clean and allow it to dry properly before packing it away for the next school day.