Mom-tested school lunch supplies and containers

With each new school year, it seems that mornings come packed with mounting activity and to-do lists. Between breakfast and brushing teeth, gathering homework and getting ready for work, you also need to pack a nutritious lunch. That’s why the ideal lunchtime supplies and containers cover a lot of ground. They need to be affordable, durable, easy-to-clean, and it helps if your kids like them, too. Like most jobs, getting lunch together is easier with the right tools. Here are a few mom-recommended, kid-approved containers.

Love the lunch box!

Perfect for your pre-school tot, Crocodile Creek lunchbox is soft, roomy and easy to clean -- just wipe it with a wet cloth and you're ready for the next day.

The perfect container

The LunchBots containers are made from stainless steel, making them durable and perfect for playground abuse . Available in three varieties, the Uno is a single portion container for larger on-the-go entrees; the Duo is the same size as the Uno but has two compartments, making it perfect for snacks; and the Pico is a smaller version of the Duo. The variety of sizes and the fact that these containers are dishwasher safe make them a versatile and valuable container to keep on-hand at home.

Brilliant bags

If you are looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint and save some cash, try swapping out the plastic baggies with reusable sandwich and snack bags. Created by moms, LunchSkins Snack Bags come recommended by Oprah, so they have to be pretty great, right? They are made from fabric that is used in bakeries, which makes them food-safe, easy to clean and able to withstand high temperatures. LunchSkins seal tightly with Velcro closures and come in a variety of sizes and colorful designs, making them super eco-chic and fun to find in the lunch box after a long morning of class.

Bowls that break the mold

Collapsible bowls come in a variety of sizes and are great for travel, camping, picnics and lunches because they pack and store flat. The Aladdin collapsible lunch bowls are a favorite because they come with threaded, leak-proof lids that twist to close. Including these containers in your lunchtime supply arsenal will help to reduce clutter in the kitchen and keep lunch boxes clean.

A little something extra

There are several supplies beyond containers that moms may need. Make sure to have a non-toxic, reusable ice pack handy on hot days to keep cool snacks cold. Fun, reusable flatware is available in a variety of materials, designs and colors for all ages. Look for bamboo and cornstarch sets, stainless steel options and silverware with fun silicone handles. Finally, make keeping it clean a little more fun by packing cloth napkins with flare. Look for bright, funky prints that will stand out and help to make sure that your little one does not forget to clean up before clearing out.

More tips for keeping school lunches fresh

Pack a healthy and safe school lunch
Lunch box makeovers
Healthy lunch ideas your kids will love