There are a lot of factors that you must consider when trying to find the right lunch box for your kids. Everything from the cost versus quality, the longevity of the construction material, as well as how the lunch box maintains the warmth or stays cool when needed.
Most parents tend to be too busy to take that extra bit of time necessary to ensure they find the right fit, and it’s even more tragic for kids who have older siblings, simply because they just end up getting hand-me-downs. That said, there are some easy tips that will help you to identify the best lunchbox for you kid, courtesy of Japanese instant ramen.
Focus on Insulation
The first important idea is to build your search on the premise of how well the lunchbox performs in terms of insulation. If you want your kids to be able to have something a bit healthier than sandwiches for lunch every day, then you need to invest in a lunch box that is properly insulated. This will allow you to maintain a healthy diet and keep your kids well-nourished, and happy.
No Plastics!
While most people are used to plastics, it is important to note that lunch boxes made from this material are susceptible to stains, they damage easily, especially if they are washed on a regular basis. Other materials such as stainless steel are recommended, simply because they are easier to clean and have better insulation.
Food odors also tend to stick more on plastic lunch boxes compared to other materials, which is why it is important to ensure you steer clear of them.
Go for a larger size
Kids tend to get hungry rather often, and if your kid has just begun going to school, then you might want to pack a little extra food just to be sure they don’t get starved at odd hours. It is for this reason that you should go for a slightly larger lunch box. It should be large enough to ensure you can pack a little extra, but not too big so it fits in a backpack.
Getting a larger lunch box with compartments is far more convenient compared to getting several different lunch boxes for different food items.
Be Stylish
As much as you are looking for a durable, washable material, ensure your kid likes it. Find a cartoon character, a superhero, or even a clown if your child is into that sort of thing, just ensure that it’s something trendy that other kids will appreciate and that your kid won’t be ashamed to carry around the school, or open in public. Use colorful stickers for stainless steel lunch boxes if you hand wash them.
Find a washable material
Your child will be using this lunchbox on pretty much a daily basis. Heavy use means the possibility that it will stain and leave food odors. So ensure you find material that you easily clean, and one that doesn’t discolor or stink after you empty it in the evening.
Weight and construction
You also need to consider the fact that you are buying this lunchbox for your child, so weight is a major consideration. Even if you stuff it in their backpack, ensure it doesn’t tire your kid to carry it to school and back, and don’t fill it unnecessarily. Also, ensure it has handles and locks secure the food inside so nothing spills over.
Spill Proof
Granted, most lunch boxes are designed for solid foods, and for the most part, a little soup spill may end up causing a crazy mess. This is why it is a good idea to try and find a lunch box capable of containing any kind of spill. Kids will be kids, after all, so it has to be sturdy and reliable and be able to effectively prevent a soup disaster.
Bottom line:
The best way to ensure you keep your kid’s lunchbox in tip-top shape is simply to empty and wash it thoroughly every day!
