With so many different brands and styles of lunchboxes available, selecting the right one for your child can be easily overwhelming. Will it break? Can my child open it? Are the more expensive brands worth it? Here is a review of six of the most popular bento style lunchbox brands on the market to help with your decision making process.
Bentgo 
Cost: approx. $30
How is it to open:
The two clasp style can take a little practise, but overall this is one of the easier lunchboxes for younger children to open. The lid is tough to lift up with the first use, but overtime it loosens up, making it easier for little grasps.
Benefits:
- Fits standard lunch bag.
- Removable, dishwasher safe tray. Easy to clean.
- Microwave and freezer safe.
- Leak proof seal around each compartment.
- Very durable.
Dislikes:
- A bit on the heavier side
- Smaller compartments, not ideal for bigger appetites
Age recommendation: 3-7
Presidents Choice
Cost: approx. $16
How is it to open:
Littles tend to use the clasp as a grip to lift the lid up, so although this clasp is easy to flip, having it go down makes it a little trickier to figure out. With practice it is still very possible for your child to open this lunchbox with minimal help or spillage at school. The lid does lift up with less force needed.
Benefits:
- Fits standard sized lunch bag.
- Removable dishwasher safe tray, easy to clean.
- Most affordable.
- Good compartment sizes, can fit a sandwich or larger item.
Dislikes:
- Not microwave or freezer safe.
- Not fully leak proof.
- Not for use with hot foods or liquids.
- Least durable.
Age recommendation: 4+
OmieBox
Cost: $45+
How is it to open:
The very durable, leakproof design and added thermos feature, does make this lunchbox the hardest to open. However, for some families these added features might outweigh the challenge. We use this lunchbox in our home because we love packing leftovers, and after some practice, our 6 year old has been able to open it at school without help. The thermos lid requires firm grip strength and force to twist open, but the flip up handle helps make it possible.
Benefits:
- Fully leak proof with carrying handle, no lunch bag needed.
- Keeps food hot and cold at the same time.
- Removable thermos compartment, great for leftovers. When removed, great for sandwiches or larger food items.
- Deep compartments, can fit a yogurt drink.
- Very durable.
Dislikes:
- Heavy
- Harder to clean, must remove and clean behind rubber seal to avoid mold or grimy build up.
Age recommendation: 6+
Planet Box
Cost: $50+
How is it to open:
Surprisingly, this was one of the easiest to open lunchbox designs, despite its flip down clasp. After being shown one time, even my two year old could open it. Since there is no rubber/leakproof seal, the lid lifts very easily.
Benefits:
- Dishwasher friendly, easy to clean.
- Includes 2 leakproof containers, great for dips or “wet” foods.
- Variety of compartment sizes, can fit a sandwich
Dislikes:
- A bit on the heavier side
- Not fully leakproof
Age recommendation: 3-8
Yumbox
Cost: $30
How is it to open:
This is the simplest design for kids to figure out. Clasp lifts up and they continue holding it to lift the lid all the way up. Littles under 4 may need help gripping the smooth base as they lift the lid.
Benefits:
- Leakproof seal around each compartment
- Removable, dishwasher safe tray. Easy to clean.
- 5, ½ cup portion sized compartments, with food group recommendations in each.
- Fits standard lunch bags.
Dislikes:
- Shows wear and tear easily.
Age recommendation: 3-8
Pottery Barn Kids
Cost: approx. $20+
How is it to open:
This is another easy to open, single clasp design. There is no leakproof seal, and it is made from a durable but lightweight recycled plastic, making the lid easy to lift for little hands.
Benefits:
- Made from durable recycled plastic.
- Kids just seem to love this one… I can’t explain why, but they do.
- Dishwasher safe.
- 30% of retail price goes towards No Hungry Kid® campaign, working towards ending child hunger.
Dislikes:
- Not leakproof.
- Not for use with hot foods, liquids or “wet” foods.
Age recommendation: 3+
Whatever lunchbox you select, always make sure you pack a lot of love in each one! Try these unique washaway labels to show your love!
