A lot of these items have been shared at one time or another on the blog, but I thought it would be helpful to have everything together in one post. So below are the supplies I love to use when it comes to packing school lunches. Please feel free to share your favorites in the comments below.
- Ziploc Divided Lunch Containers. These are my favorite lunch containers because they are inexpensive, leak-proof, and easy-to-use with only one lid to open. For other lunch container options check out our recent lunchbox review post.
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- Thermos Bottles. We love these bottles because they are insulated, leak-proof, durable, and they don't sweat on the outside.
- Thermos Containers. These containers are great for sending warm lunches when you need a break from sandwiches ...think oatmeal, soups or leftovers.
- Mini Round Containers. These happen to be the absolute perfect size for a single muffin and it also keeps them from getting smushed. When I send soup in a thermos I oftentimes send a muffin in one of these as well.
- Ice Packs. I don't like to hold back when it comes to keeping my daughters' lunches cold...so I usually add 2 - 3 ice packs. I like these flexible blue ones because they can be cut to any size (and they are light-weight), and I also like to throw in a fun animal ice pack as well.
- Lands End Soft Sided Lunch Bags. To ensure all these goodies will fit in one lunch bag you don't want to mess around...not all lunch bags are created equal! We use the Lands' End soft sided bags and love them. They will hold a lunch container and Thermos bottle along with several ice packs. Alternatively you can fit a Thermos bottle, Thermos container, and one other container (that will hold something like a side of fruit or a muffin) in these bags as well.
- Smoothie Pop Molds (a.k.a. Ice Pop Makers). We freeze smoothies, yogurt and applesauce in these molds and then wedge them into the Ziplock divided containers where they partially defrost by lunchtime. To learn more about how these molds work check out my recent post all about them.
- Reusable Napkins. When I first started packing lunches for my daughter I would look in her lunchbox at the end of the day and not even be able to tell if she used her napkin or not...and then it would go in the garbage. That seemed like such a waste so we started using cotton napkins that I wash with the rest of our laundry on the weekends. We bought some plain white, small cocktail napkins and tie dyed them ourselves, which by the way is a great way to hide stains, but you can also get napkins that are already colorful and ready to use like these solid colored ones from Laptop Lunches.
- Reusable Silverware. If I am no longer going to throw away lunchbox napkins at the end of the day then why still use plastic, disposable silverware? For things like soups, cut up fruit, pasta, and oatmeal we've been using an inexpensive small set of silverware and it works great because I don't fret if a utensil gets misplaced.
- Fun Toothpicks. It's hard to resist a sandwich if there is a bumble bee toothpick sticking out of it. I always keep my eyes open for cute toothpicks, and I usually have good luck finding them around the different holidays at Target or anytime at Party City. Here are some fun and colorful Martha Stewart picks.
- Cute Cookie Cutters. Whoever said "cookie cutters" only had to be for cookies! Now just imagine that sandwich with the bumble bee toothpick in the shape of a flower. You might just get the "Mother of the Year" award. :) If you are worried about wasting the bread ends after you cut out a shape simply throw them in the freezer for things like croutons or breadcrumbs. You can also use the cutters on other lunchbox items like fruit and cheese.
- Biodegradable or Reusable Baggies. Yes plastic throwaway bags are quick and easy, but I am going to try to be better about not using them this year. Some great alternatives are "monster" Wexy bags, which are biodegradable or these reusable bags from neat-os, which I think most resemble the ziplocs we are all know and love!
- Silicone Cups/Muffin Liners. These liners are great for both baking muffins (because they are non-stick, colorful and reusable!) and also for adding some cuteness to your child's lunchbox by holding side items like fruit or trail mix. Note we use both standard and jumbo sizes depending on our needs.
- Freezer-Safe Glass Jars. These jars are perfect for freezing individual portions of soups and other meals that can then be defrosted, reheated, and added to a Thermos container for your child's lunch bag. I defrost my soups in the fridge overnight and then reheat them on the stove the next morning before school. Just be sure to leave some room at the top of the jar so the food has room to expand.
- Ice Cube Trays. These trays are the perfect way to freeze small portions of things like applesauce or tomato sauce so you can add a few cubes to your child's lunchbox the night before school. Now you no longer have to worry about jars of sauces spoiling before you can use them all up.
- Lunchbox Love Cards. We quickly fell in love with these adorable little cards last school year and have been sending them in our daughters' lunch boxes ever since. Sure I could write my own note daily, but the thing is I could never be as creative or funny or thoughtful as these. Also, I love the fun facts and jokes for kids on the back of each card. I flip through the pack and pick one that's appropriate for the day...and my daughters look forward to getting them and sharing the jokes and trivia with their friends at the lunch table. (Note: The cards are sturdy enough to be reused a few times if they don't get wet.)
For ideas on what "real food" to pack using these school lunch supplies the check out my School Lunch Ideas post!
Misty says
The reusable baggies by Appleberry Attic, how do you wash them? just by hand with dish soap or are they dishwasher safe?
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Misty. Amazon's site says they are machine washable and dishwasher safe. Jill
Norell says
Does anyone know where I can buy the Ziplock Divided Lunch Containers in Western Australia? I would love to get my hands on these containers! I see that I can purchase them via Amazon, but I thought I would put it out there first to see if I can purchase these containers in a well local supermarket or store in Western Australia. Any feedback would be very much appreciated :)
Lauren says
While we don't have kids, hubby & I have been using Cozi for about 8 months now, and we love it. We both have numerous health problems, which result in numerous doctor appointments. I'm also involved in some local music stuff, so the app is great for listing appointments for both of us & my rehearsal schedule. Love that it can be shared across multiple devices & users. It's slowly replacing our pocket calendars! :)
Kat says
Great ideas! My girls are too young for school but I still love the ideas and plan to send lunch with them when the time comes. This is kind of off topic, but I was wondering if you've checked out the new federal regulations for the public school lunch program? Just curious as to what your thoughts are...at first I thought it sounded great; school lunches obviously need to be more healthy, but after hearing family and friends complain I researched it a bit and some of it's disturbing (only low-fat or fat-free dairy, limiting portions without considering things like student athletes or growth spurts, giving very little protein, canned fruit in syrup, etc.). If you have time I'd love to hear what you think and I'm sure other parents would appreciate it also!
Sue says
School lunches are not good I worked as a lunch aid for a while and the food that the school offers gets thrown out and the kids then buy ice cream and the cafeteria earns the extra money from the sale of ice cream!
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Kat. You might be interested in this recent post about school lunches...https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/09/07/book-review-fed-up-with-lunch/. Jill
Amy says
What method do you use to heat the jars on the stove?
Amy says
Nevermind. I re-read that. LOL
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Amy. You can just place them in a pot of boiling water...enough to cover the bottom. Jill
hannah says
I don't have kids lunches to pack, but I do pack my own lunch like you.
Some tips to consider if you're short on cash...
Goodwill or other thriftstores usually have an abundance of cloth napkins in perfect condition. All the cloth napkins in my house have been sourced there, and after a good hot wash they are ready to use, and good, absorbent thick cotton.
If you aren't grossed out, you can also buy silverware cheaply there, and sanitize it yourself. Then no worries if one gets lost.
As other people have mentioned, Thermos makes thermoses in various sizes in stainless steel, as well as stainless steel soup containers.
In my view, lunch is so much more pleasant using decent containers, good quality water bottles or the like, real silverware, and real napkins!
Nicole says
Thank you thank you thank you for all of your product recommendations!!! I love the smoothie pop molds and the ziploc containers. Your blog has completely changed the way I think about my kids lunches (and all of our family meals!) I have recommended your blog to all of my friends. Thank you for making my life just a little bit easier!!! :)
Caroline says
Completely irrelevant, but what's your opinion on coconut palm sugar?
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Caroline. I have not done a lot of research on it yet, but, from the little bit I've seen, I know it is low in the glycemic index and supposed to be full of vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Jill
Elizabeth says
I also use Lunchskins for the reusable bags and really like them. You can put them in the dishwasher which is great. If I didn't I would be using at least 12 plastic bags a day!
Leah says
I've been using the Klip It Cube container for my lunches lately.. and I love it!
http://www.amazon.com/Sistema-Klip-Lunch-Container-48-Ounce/dp/B002B4S75I
It also fits perfectly in my Trader Joe's insulated lunch bag, with extra space for some yogurt/apple, etc.
beverley says
You have solved my napkin problem. It doesn't take long for a white napkin to become soiled but making them a pretty colour means they will continue to look good for longer.
Dawn says
Yes, Emily! They do make them without characters! Check Amazon, look up Foogo and Intak, both by Thermos, same design, different sizes and no cheesy characters. We also LOVE these bottles! Lisa, we also love the Lands End bags, and this year I am going to put the yogurt pops in the lunches. We use them for popsicles, but never in lunch! Thanks for all the great ideas, I know we'll be trying many new things this year!
Mary says
DH & I have been using and LOVING Cozi for the last year as well. I cannot say enough about it. I love how we can see each others additions immediately, can make all kinds of notes, reminders for each event, repeating options or whatever set up you might need,they even have colored dots for each family member to see who is going where & when quickly! I feel like we still haven't even scratched the surface of the free version!
Rachel says
We also love Cozi. Shopping lists, calendar with reminders, and as many different to do lists as you want. I love the color code dots and that we can choose how we want our reminders sent. Hubby gets a tex and I get an email. We added a person to our family called Birthdays, so now we won't miss a bday either. :) Great help for a busy family. I just wish you could access the meal planning features through the app instead of just on the computer.
Erin@MommyontheSpot says
These are great! I'm getting geared up for lunches this year and looking for inspiration. Thanks!
Kim says
Love it! We use Easy Lunch Boxes (and I have some of the Ziplock ones in my cupboard too - can't find them in Canada, so had a friend get some when they went to the US), I have lots of re-usable baggies (I made them all myself - zipper and all). have to say that the zipper ones are better than velcro, in my opinion. Love the re-usable napkin idea...why didn't I think of that. Those should be super easy for me to make (or ask my mom to make!).
Keep up the great work, Lisa. Love your blog!
Less Sugar Naturally says
Well. I only have one child left in school who is now starting high school. I will begrudgingly make his lunches so that he doesn't spend his own money on crappy cafeteria junk food. He eats so much he needs a rolling lunch bag... Lol Find any of those??? I love the reusable Baggies. Hoping to find some here in Canada. Those smoothie pops are a really good idea too.
Emily says
I use Cozi and really like it! I started before I had a Mac and so I needed something that was would sync everything from my laptop to my iphone! Love it!
I've also started using lots of these products and am thrilled with all of them! We love the Ziploc containers and we also just bought Thermos drinking containers today. It was before I saw this and the lady at Buy Buy Baby said that they are the best for actually keeping things cold and not leaking. I'm glad someone has given them a test drive! We've had good luck with Lunchbots thermoses and I do like the stainless steel containers. The divided lunchbots containers leak like crazy though. We also love using silicone baking cups to divide things. Thanks for all the great suggestions!
Colleen Grossner says
A reusable napkin at school is such a great idea -- we'll do it all year, starting on the first day of school on Monday! Thank you, Lisa! I also just love all the silicone stuff that's out there! They help make all the yummy stuff we send in lunches, and here is why!: http://fresh-you.blogspot.com/2012/04/silicone-makes-me-smile-top-5-reasons.html
On another note, after working with the cook at bit, there is going to be all whole wheat pasta and bread at my daughter's school! While there is always room for improvement, it's a great change that I thought you'd appreciate! I just made a post about brown rice with that cool visual you got from Whole Grains Council that a lot of people are learning from! http://fresh-you.blogspot.com/2012/08/whats-so-big-about-brown-rice.html Thanks again, Lisa!!!
Amy says
Good for you - congrats!
Megan says
Thanks for a great post! I shared it on my school's facebook page (I'm the admin).
MeghanM says
My family has been using Cozi for about 6 months now. We love it!! The calendar has kept us organized through a busy soccer season and having the shopping lists on both our phones is fantastic. I haven't tried using it for meal planning yet but plan to get that going soon.
Claire says
Clearly your followers have overwhelmed Amazon, because the ziploc containers are out-of-stock!!!!! I'm going to head to our local Target and keep my fingers crossed!
karen peachey says
Yes, I checked yesterday & they are all gone as well as the smoothie pops!!:) I found my ziplocks at Target for under $3.00!!
Courtney says
I love the reusable bags from Itzy Ritzy. They have a bunch of different designs, and they are lined so they work for both carrots and crackers (separately of course!). I love the 7" opening. I had bought some munchkin ones, but the opening was harder to get hands through. The zipper is easy to open for my toddler. I use the little size for my toddler and the bigger one for shared snacks.
They are all the good things too: Lead Free, BPA Free, PVC Free. I promise, I don't work for them, I'm just a super satisfied customer.
On another note, I'm looking to replace Cozi since I have fallen completely our of like with it.
Shelly says
We have been packing completely reusable lunches for several years now, since our school started a green initiative. They kicked it off by giving each child a Reusable sandwich wrap. We've ordered a new one for the kids every year since. The plastic liner keeps the bread from drying out. The bags work well for cookies and chips, but not sandwiches, imo.
Cathy says
I made these for my kiddos last fall, in cute colors for the girls (floral on one side, stripes on the other). They are holding up well so far. http://to-be-charmed.com/2010/04/29/diy_sandwich_wrap/
Debby says
Thanks for the tips! My oldest son just started high school and says school lunches aren't enough for him anymore. He says "they aren't healthy", quoting his wellness instructor. I work full time and have never packed lunches for my three children. It always seemed so time consuming and I figured the USDA would suffice. I now believe we can do this!
Claire says
I make our own reusable bags in different sizes. With Velcro from here: http://ihavetosay.typepad.com/photos/reusable_snack_bag_tutori/index.html
And fold over from here: http://www.cottonbottommama.com/2012/03/reusable-snack-bag-tutorial.html?m=1
I line them with rip-stop nylon. Relatively waterproof and comparatively food-safe/non toxic. I just throw them in the laundry if they get soiled. I like the Kid Konserve tin containers, the foogo thermos for soups, the 6.7 oz klip it containers & the 2.6 oz "snack & dip tub" from container store are perfect size for yogurt or applesauce for my 3 yr old.
Also, for some reason, my kids will only drink keifer from a pouch. So, I just bought these reusable pouches: http://amzn.com/B004I01F3Y
They love them for water and today was the first day I sent "yogurt drink." But I think it will work great. Bought a "tea kettle" cleaning brush to scub them out. I'm excited about this- do you know how expensive those Pre-packaged pouches are?! Not to mention the waste.
Jennifer says
Love the thermos containers. I am amazed at how well they hold things hot or cold. I bought the ice pop molds over the summer after seeing your suggestion. They are great.
Denise Williams says
where are the thermos bottle from? That is exactly what I need.
Kerri Mayo says
Denise, you can buy the thermos bottles at Target and I even saw some at Walmart where I live last night.
Denise says
thank you! I got them this afternoon at Target. My daughter picked out a Hello KItty one and my son picked out a star wars one. perfect!
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Denise. Check out our kitchen essentials page...you can find all of the products here. https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/my-kitchen-essentials/#kids. Jill
DaNelle Wolford says
Man, I really need to get those smoothie pop molds!
DaNelle recently posted...Why I changed my mind about Homeschooling
Jennifer V. says
I almost bought those ice pop molds over the summer. I have seen a lot of bloggers lately who have mentioned they are using them to make their own Gogurt to send in kids' lunches. I may have to get some the next time we place an Amazon order.
I love your idea to send reusable napkins and utensils with kids' lunch. I may have to start doing that - once napkins and plastic utensils from all the summer birthdays are gone.
Susan M. Walls says
Just love your blog! We are eating healthier and I read through your great suggestions always finding great tidbits and new things to try. Thanks for all of it!
Susan
Cindy says
Use Cozi and LOVE it! My husband is now totally in the loop with all the kids' activities and I can easily add to his to-do list (okay, he can add to mine, too) any time!
Love the ziploc boxes, thermos containers, the Lands' End lunchboxes, and the silicon yogurt thingies! I may need to think about some reusable baggies...I haven't ventured there yet!
Michelle says
Genius! I need to get some Wexy bags, my son will love the monsters! The ice pop makers are wonderful, too. My son is really missing the Gogurts since I quit buying them.
tina says
Do you know if the Lands End lunch boxes are lead free?
We were going to order the plantebox lunch trays for school this year too, but then when I was reading through the FAQ's I realized they were made in China. They try to explain it away, but they're still made in China, so disappointing.
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Tina. I don't know, I'm sorry. But, you could probably call the Company to ask them. Jill
Amy says
thanks for the lands end lunch bag tip - We have the PBK ones and you can't fit their waterbottles in with the ziplock containers - so frustrating! And my son just mentioned this morning if I could put an ice pack in to keep his food cold so perfect timing on that recommendation!
Trixie Wilkie says
I really like the idea of the ice cube tray (love this covered one) for freezing small portions. I'll start using that idea! Thanks!
Bugink Avocado says
Our fav reusable baggies: http://www.snacktaxi.com. they are local (to us) and "family made".
Leslie says
My favorite containers are Smart Planet eco collapsible lunch boxes. We have two that have been used consistently now for about six months and still look brand new. They are a little pricey in the beginning but I found ours at TJMaxx for $10 each. Amazon has them starting at $17 and up.
http://www.smartplanethome.com/PhotoGallery.asp?ProductCode=EC-34L&PhotoNumber=2
Amanda says
LOVE reusable baggies at our house. I have tried a few different kinds, and the only recommendation I would make is try ones with zipper closures. Easier for washing! Teachers at our school loved them as year end gifts last year too :)
Kira =] says
My bestie is a water only kind of gal and all the insulated drink containers are just not big enough for her consumption. She taught me the neat trick of slipping a sock around the outside of the water bottle. It absorbs the condensation!
I FINALLY located the Ziploc divided containers at Target. My lack of planning didn't allow me the convenience of waiting for an order to come in from Amazon. Just wanted to pass along the tip.
Sandy says
Thanks for the info. I'm seriously considering the Ziploc containers for my lunches.
Amanda says
My local Target had the Ziploc containers for $2.69/2-pack, which is WAY cheaper than Amazon (plus no shipping cost). Amazon is usually my go-to place for almost everything, but in this case Target definitely wins out. Just a tip for those looking for these!
Emily says
We too, LOVE Thermos' bottles and containers! My kids'leftover itmes are still hot or cold when they come home in the afternoon. Sadly, my oldest is growing out of the designs they currently feature on the bottles/containers and we cannot find anything to replace these great products with. Ever seen these without any characters on them?
We are also HUGE fans of PlanetBox! Super durable and help us have a variety of foods in the lunches that are accessible all at once (thus limiting the "I only opend up one container and only ate that one thing at lunch" excuse)as well as maintaining appropriate portion sizes. This year, they did add a larger version for bigger appetites.
christine says
If you look in the camping section at target, they sell stainless steel thermos's with no logo on them.
Amanda says
Thermos bottles totally come in plain colours Emily! They make a "Foogo" line in pink or blue, but there are other plain colours on Amazon too :)
maria says
My daughter is in 4th grade and did not want a 'kid thermos' so we got her this one http://www.amazon.com/Thermos-Intak-Steel-Water-Bottle/dp/B002VK2EHY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1345836678&sr=8-2&keywords=thermos+intak it's a few oz. bigger too. I did see funtainers at Target that were plain with either a pink or blue top as well.
Kathleen says
I just discovered cool sheets of decorative duct tape. I covered my sons scratched up water bottle with cool flames and it is awesome! They have solids too. Bought them at michael's craft store for cheap.