Adorable and Functional Reusable Kids’ Lunch Gear, From Bento Boxes to Squeeze Pouches

In the US, plastic wrap is king. Data published earlier this year found that in 2020, more than 83 million Americans used one roll of plastic wrap throughout the year, while nearly 27 million used three rolls. It’s not hard to see why it’s so popular—it’s easy to use and quickly covers everything from leftovers to sandwiches for school lunches. It’s also relatively inexpensive, widely available, and efficient at keeping food fresher for longer. But of course, plastic wrap has a big downside—it’s not great for the planet.

While we may not always think about it in the morning rush, the lunches we wrap up in plastic for ourselves and our little ones have an impact beyond keeping us all fed and nourished. Plastic doesn’t biodegrade, at least not quickly. In fact, it can take hundreds of years to fully break down in the landfill, and when it does, it leaches microplastics into the environment, which can be harmful to wildlife and to humans (more on that here). 

This is where reusable lunch essentials come in. They’re better for the environment because they can be cleaned and used again and again without needing to be thrown away, which means fewer sandwich wraps and plastic bottles sitting in landfills and polluting the ocean (according to Surfers Against Sewage, 8 million pieces of plastic make their way into the oceans every single day).

Switching to reusables might also benefit your wallet. In 2023, research from Friends of the Earth Canada (carried out in conjunction with one 11-year-old plastics campaigner called Maya), found that Canadian families could save around $527 million CAD if they switch from single-use plastic to reusable options. “Plastic pollution harms all of us, our plants, our soil, our animals, our planet, and even ourselves. Let’s reduce single-use plastics in our school lunches and help our family’s budget and our planet,” Maya said.

RELATED: Ditch Toxic Black Plastic and Use These Safer Kitchen Utensils Instead

How to pack a sustainable lunch: 7 reusable essentials to reduce waste

If you’re looking to break up with plastics in favor of reusable options, you’ve come to the right place. From food storage bags to bento boxes, below we’ve rounded up seven reusable lunch essentials, perfect for kids’ lunch boxes (and your own, too!).

Stasher

Best reusable food storage bags:
Stasher Premium Silicone Reusable Food Storage Pocket Bags

These silicone reusable pocket bags from Stasher are perfect for everything from kids’ sandwiches to dog treats. Complete with a handy Pinch-Loc seal that prevents leaks, they’re dishwasher-safe and freezer-friendly, too. Plus, according to Stasher, each bag can replace up to 260 single-use plastic bags per year. 

“I love my Stasher bags. They are a great replacement and are versatile. I use mine to make popcorn as well,” said one Redditor. Another added: “Freezer for veggie scraps and leftovers, sandwiches for the husband’s work, great for airplanes (exploding shampoo fully contained!) … I use them for everything. Cannot recommend them enough.”

Some users said that while these Stasher bags are leak-proof, they’re also a little difficult to clean if you get crumbs in the seal. Others also noted that they’re a little bit tough for young kids to open, so they might be better suited to older children.

But generally, users are impressed with Stasher bags. “Love this brand—extremely sturdy, can wash in the dishwasher, [and] very securely sealed when closed. A great alternative to flimsy (and wasteful) disposable zip lock bags,” said one Amazon buyer.
$13.99 on Amazon

Best reusable water bottle for preschoolers:
Thermos Funtainter 12 Ounce Stainless Steel Kids Straw Bottle

Hydration is important for ensuring kids are engaged and focused at school, and it also helps maintain their energy levels. Make sure your little one has water on hand all day with this sweet reusable, lightweight bottle from Thermos, which can keep drinks cold for up to 12 hours. 

“I like the Thermos brand insulated water bottles. They withstand the dropping and slamming kids do with water bottles. They’re easy to use and easy to clean,” said one Redditor. Another agreed, stating: “They’re the only ones I’ll get for my four-year-old daughter now. Easy to hold, she can open and close the lid easily and they’re dishwasher safe.”

Some Amazon users stated that the bottle can leak a little when it’s turned upside down—just something to keep in mind when you’re packing your child’s bag.
$16.99 on Amazon

Bentgo

Best bento box for kids:
Bentgo Leak-Proof, 5-Compartment Bento-Style Kids Lunch Box

Bento’s kid-friendly lunchboxes feature five compartments, perfect for sandwiches, fruits, and sweet treats—there’s even space for a dip. They’re easy to clean, leak-proof, and lightweight, and one of the best parts: each purchase gives back. According to the brand, since 2017, it has donated nearly $300,000 to help feed hungry families across the US.

Some reviewers reported that while the lunchbox is easy to clean, it does tend to stain quite easily (might be something to keep in mind if your little one is a big fan of tomato sauce).

One Amazon reviewer said: “My toddler loves the colors and the fact that everything stays in place without mixing. Highly recommended for any parent looking for a reliable and cute lunch box for their little one!” Another added: “These are easy to use and durable. The kids love the patterns, and I love that it makes packing lunch a little easier and organized. I’ve also used it as a snack tray for trips. No leaks!”
$29.99 on Amazon

Best insulated lunch bag:
FlowFly Kids Soft Bag

FlowFly’s sweet canvas bags can keep your child’s lunch fresh and cool all morning long, thanks to the insulated lining. They’re durable, easy to clean, and thoughtfully designed—the mesh side pocket is perfect for a water bottle (although some reviewers said it’s a little small for a sizeable refillable bottle), while the front pocket can hide a little post-lunch sweet treat. 

“I bought this lunch bag last year and it lasted all school year, and it was the perfect size—not too big and big enough to pack a good lunch. I have ordered another one but with a different design this year,” said one Amazon reviewer. “[It] keeps food nice and cold and is easy to clean the design and colors are perfect for a girly girl.” Another added: “We can fit actually a lot of stuff into this lunch bag! It is very easy to clean and it has an adorable design.”
$12.99 on Amazon

Elk and Friends

Best kid’s lunchtime silverware:
Elk and Friends Kids Silverware

These cute stainless steel toddler-friendly spoons and forks are perfect for packing in your little ones’ lunch for yogurts, pasta, and more. They’re made with food-grade silicone, and designed to fit perfectly in small hands and mouths.

One Amazon reviewer noted that this set is “durable and high-quality,” with a “comfortable, non-slip grip that’s perfect for little hands.” Some said they felt a little heavy for little ones, but others were pleased with the design. Another Amazon user said: “These are great utensils! Love that they are metal and easy to grip for my kids! They fit well in small hands and have a good weight to them!”
$16.99 on Amazon 

Everusely

Best stainless steel snack containers:
Everusely Food Containers

Made with stainless steel and food-grade silicone, these containers from Australian brand Everusely are ideal for packing snacks for your little one’s school day. They’re also perfect for storing leftovers, plus they’re easy to clean and leak-proof.

“The Everusely Stainless Steel Containers with Lids are a fantastic addition to our toddler’s daycare lunches and are great for packing anything from fruit and cereal to yogurt and condiments,” said one Amazon user. “The lids are easy for our little one to open independently, ensuring he can enjoy his meals even when no one is around to help.”

Note: While they can be used to store hot foods, like soups and rice, users advise that they get really hot to the touch, and are perhaps better suited for cold options.
$49.90 on Amazon

Best reusable squeeze pouch:
Squeasy Snacker Reusable Food Pouch

Made with soft, flexible silicone, Squeasy’s food pouches—which come complete with a no-spill lid—are ideal for storing smoothies and yogurts, and they’re easy to clean out because they’re 100-percent dishwasher safe.

Some reviewers noted that while the pouches hold their shape well, they don’t rely on suction to get the food out, and children have to push the food up instead (like a tube of toothpaste). Others, however, were impressed with the design.

“Worth the price. Easy to use. Doesn’t spill. Can put liquids or purées or even smoothies. And so easy to wash compared to others on the market. 10 out of 10. No complaints,” said one Amazon user. Another added: “As a parent of two young children, I am still shocked how such a simple thing can be such a game changer. Easy to fill. Easy to clean. Holds liquids. Holds thicker liquids. It is such a delight to use.”
$14.99 on Amazon