Mom-Approved Lunch-Box Supplies
Having a well-stocked “pantry” of lunch-packing supplies not only makes the job go more smoothly, it also cuts down enormously on all those little plastic baggies. Unfortunately, all reusable containers aren’t created equal. Some have lead paint, contain phthalates, BPAs, and other chemicals you don’t want near your child, much less his or her food. Here are a few pointers to keep a lid on toxins in your child’s lunch box: Look for lightweight stainless-steel or plastic storage containers with the numbers 2, 4, or 5, which usually appear on the bottom. Avoid products marked with a 3, 6, or 7. Some experts also recommend avoiding plastic containers with the number 1. Glass containers are excellent for home use, but banging around in a kid’s lunch? Probably not a good idea. As far as water bottles go, stainless steel is ideal. You can also look for BPA-free plastic and aluminum bottles.
LUNCH BOXES
Pottery Barn Kids: A one-stop resource for lunch-packing supplies, including a wide selection of charming lunch boxes. www.potterybarnkids.com
LL Bean: Good, basic, affordable lunch boxes in a variety of colors and designs. www.llbean.com
Oré: Insulated, laminated cotton-canvas lunch boxes shaped like a brown paper bag with colorful graphics. www.oreoriginals.com
BENTOS
Planet Box: Insulated lunch boxes with a compartmentalized stainless-steel insert for easy packing and cleanup. www.planetbox.com
ECOlunchbox: The sleek design of these stainless-steel stackables, along with the attractive carry bags, especially appeal to older kids. www.ecolunchboxes.com
STORAGE CONTAINERS
LunchBots: Stainless-steel containers in a rainbow of bright and charming colors. www.lunchbots.com
Rubbermaid: Affordable, BPA-free plastics, including Lunchblox, a line of containers that fit together like a set of blocks and include freezer packs. www.rubbermaid.com
HOT-FOOD CONTAINERS
Thermos: The classic container for keeping food warm during the school day, especially the sturdy 10-ounce food jar; also sells a variety of other lunch storage wares. www.thermos.com
Kids Konserve: Leakproof insulated food jars with colored lids; also makes sturdy stainless-steel containers. www.kidskonserve.com
WATER BOTTLES
Klean Kanteen: Durable stainless-steel water bottles available in a kid-friendly 12-ounce size. www.kleankanteen.com
Camelbak: BPA-free plastic bottles with a built-in straw makes lunchtime hydrating easy. www.camelbak.com
REUSABLE SNACK BAGS AND SANDWICH WRAPPERS
Lunchskins: Cute-as-a-button designs on reusable snack and sandwich bags. www.lunchskins.com
Itzy Ritzy: Reusable bags with stylish graphic prints that close with a zipper. www.itzyritzy.com