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Average Ratings (from 234 ratings)
Overall star Rating
Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
I would purchase Circa Home products for others
I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
Circa Home products are great value for money
Circa Home Candles and Soaps :
4.48 out of 5 based on 236 reviews.

Handmade in Australia, Circa Home is an affordable range of natural, high quality fragrant products that are reusable and recyclable.

With products that feature classic designs with wood grain embossed detailing and aged timber lids, the Circa Home range features products that are perfect for any space.

The strongest scented Soy candles on the market, Circa Home Candles are made with Soy Wax and lead-free cotton wicks for a cleaner burn. The jar is reusable with a tea-light for a glowing ambient effect.

Circa Home’s NEW Everyday Soap will treat your skin and your nose. With moisturising Sweet Almond Oil and Cocoa Butter, they’re free from Sulphates, PEGs, Parabens and Mineral Oil.

If instant fragrance is what you are after, Circa Home’s Fragrance Diffusers are perfect for use all around the home; simply flip the reeds to add a fragrance boost to any room.

In the Circa Home Candles and Soaps product review, some very lucky mums will receive one of the following Circa Home packs …

Country Living Selection

1 x Jasmine & Magnolia Classic Candle – RRP $29.95

1 x Narcissus & Patchouli Everyday Soap – RRP $9.95

1 x BONUS Tropical Getaway Tin – RRP $19.95

Evocative of tea gardens, evening blooms and open fields, the Country Living Selection combines Jasmine & Magnolia and Narcissus & Patchouli, to bring the serenity of country living into your everyday life. This pack also comes with a bonus new release Tropical Getaway Tin.


Coastal Living Selection

1 x Oceanique Classic Candle – RRP $29.95

1 x Lilac & Orchid Everyday Soap – RRP $9.95

1 x BONUS Tropical Getaway Tin – RRP $19.95

Reminiscent of sea air and beachside walks, the Coastal Living Selection combines Oceanique and Lilac & Orchid, to bring the relaxed feel of coastal living into your home. This pack also comes with a bonus new release Tropical Getaway Tin.


Where to find Circa Home

Circa Home is available nationally at Bed Bath N’ Table, David Jones and selected gift and homewares stores.  To find your nearest Circa Home stockist, click here.

Apply to review Circa Home

Applications to be part of the MoM Review team for Circa Home open Tuesday 20 November.  To apply, simply click on the APPLY TO REVIEW button at the top of this page.  Mums who are selected to participate in this review will receive an email from Mouths of Mums confirming on Thursday 22 November 2012.  If you don’t receive an email, don’t worry, there are plenty of other reviews coming up.


Published 19th November 2012


  • divine

    the smell is amazing, the candles, well what can I say except wow [ it goes right threw he house ] and the soap is very rich and creamy, very indulgent
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • I love these candles. I wasn’t selected but have purchased one, it was divine smelling so,am going to,buy some to put in our Christmas hampers for the females. I find them a bit pricy but they do last quite some time & are presented beautifully. Candles make our house a home
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Smellarific

    I used to burn oils when I had a dog but haven't for a few years. Now I have little boys it is a bit worrying to burn but I had it going while they weren't here and it smelt devine. It wasn't overpowering like oils and lasts for so long I was amazed. It is still here a few days later so I wouldn't need to have something burning constantly. I would love to send a few for Christmas and can't wait to pick them out.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • lovely scents

    I purchased some of the soaps and candles, i love lovely scented candles being placed around the house in different rooms, the scent mingles in the air and gives you a lovely feeling and they are not over powering, the soaps i usually like to place in my clothes draws so the scents mingle with the clothes and i always get remarks like you smell lovely, and its all thanks to the scented soaps.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Ooh La La!! Romantic!! Party Time!! Let Me Entertain You!!

    :-) Ooh La La!!

    :-) Romancing the Boys!!

    :-) Sure Is Party Time!!

    :-) Let Me Entertain You!!

    :-) Sit back ENJOYing the Colourful Show!!

    :-) Jubilee!!

    :-) Aromatic Scents!!

    :-) Day!! Night!!
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • smells amazing!

    these candles not only look classy they smell amazing!! As soon as i recieved my candle i was quick to light it and see exactly how well it work threw out my house! Being that i have a 10 yr old boy who never stops n sweats alot and a newborn baby this candle worked amazingly well talk about a fantastic product!!
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Wonderful Product

    I am in love with Circa home. Since seeing the review page I have purchased some for my self and a friend. The scents are absolutely divine and linger for ages after it has blown out. My house smells fresh and my husband LOVES coming home to the different scents. It lifts my mood and the moods of the whole family when I light them. Showers are a dream With the soap. I feel fresh,clean and completely wonderful after using the soap. Wonderful products and wonderful service overall. Thank you
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Awesome Reviews

    I like to know what other people think about Circa Home Candles and Soaps. I myself like to try things new and its always good when you have a comment or review of other people trying it so you know whether you want to purchase one yourself. And with the reviews I think I might!
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Pure luxury

    I just got a candle and soap this morning and they are just gorgeous looks like I have spent a heap but I didn't so its something elegant and affordable this is a hard combination to find. Will be going back for more :)
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • I just love the scent of beautiful soaps and candles.

    I would just love to have my home smelling of beautiful scents instead of dirty shoes, socks, clothes and the pets we own that seem to always find a sneaky way of getting in my home and either chewing stuff or just jumping onto the kids beds and making a mess of everything especially tearing up tissues.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Absolutely beautiful scents

    Circa Home products are absolutely beautiful. They are reasonably priced and the scent range is very big. I love the diffusers - I have them in my bathrooms and in the wardrobes - they make the clothes smell absolutely fabulous! I also have one in my living room and one in my husband's man cave (hidden up high - to get rid of the terrible 'man smells' that are created in there!)
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Aromas from circa products are pure and smell divine.

    i have been given circa candles for many occasions birthdays christmas etc and they always amaze me the way they smell and spread the beautiful aroma around the room is incredible! Yes they can be very extremely expensive but it's worth the money if you do want a beautiful sent throughout your home. I think they are also a type of aromatherapy for the home. I always use essential oils but now i'll either use oils or the candle because the candles are just as effective. If I was buying a candle or anything scented for a friend i would go circa for sure.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Beautiful fragrances for the home!

    I was given a Circa Home Vanilla & Cocoa Butter candle for Christmas and I love it.

    Not usually a fan of candles as I tend to find them overpowering and sometimes irritating, I was surprised by this one. With it's subtle fragrance, I find this is great for relaxing in the bath or just to give our home a lovely, inviting fragrance. It's been hot here this week and even without lighting the candle it smells divine. I have this on my 'wishlist' for my birthday and have also hinted that I would love to try the Cara Cara Orange candle for a fresh, citrusy scent.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • My house smells amazing thanks to Circa House

    I am totally in love with my Circa House candles and diffusers. My favourite scents are the Blackberry & Saffron and the Rockmelon. The Blackberry and Saffron is a really elegant scent which gives my living room a sense of warmth and calm. Where as the Rockmelon is a funky fresh flavour that makes me want to eat it! My kitchen smells absolutely amazing.

    Compared to other products on the market, Circa House is great value for money with a product that you will actually smell.

    A fantastic product that I highly recommend for gifts or as a special treat for yourself.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • THE BEST CANDLES ON THE MARKET.

    The Narcissus & Patchouli Circa Home scented candle is my favorite candle. I love burning candles day or night. Especially when friends come around. I burn them in the bathroom, toilet and living areas. I always burn one in the caravan. Even when the candle is not lit, the aroma escapes and makes my caravan smell beautiful. I always keep a couple on hand for presents. Made in Australia is a bonus too!
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • heavenly scent

    After reading the reviews I thought I'm gunna try these. I'm so glad I did. Not only do they smell amazing, they burn for hours and being able to reuse the jar is fabulous. I love trying the new scents.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Circa candles make my home smell nice and inviting

    I have only used the circa home candles. I have used a few different scents and they have all left my home smelling fresh and inviting. I also find the candles are not too strong especially if u have kids or people with sensitivity to smells. I have had a few friends ask me what candles am I burning in my home as soon as they walked in the door, and that gives me a good feeling knowing my house doesn't smell of bad odours.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • So beautiful

    I love Circa Home candles. I have always had candles in my house but never really used them much until I got my Circa Home candles. They smell divine, even when they are not being burnt. I pop the lid off and there is a beautiful subtle fragrance. When burnt the candles have an even more lovely aroma. They are not too overpowering and they make the house smell and feel wonderful.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Great product

    I filling my home with a beautiful smell from a candle, and these soy candles are great. I like them and would recommend them to everyone.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • not the best product..

    Overall these products are ok. I have never been a huge fan of soy candles though. This candle did have a lot more fragrance compared to other soy candles I have tried. I did enjoy the soap, this was a great product, lathered extremely well and was a refreshing smell. I would not purchase again however is great for people who enjoy soy products.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • My house smells amazing!!

    I love when my home smells homely!! These do just that.. Love love love it!!
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Circa

    These smell so so yummy it's hard to pick which one u would use at one time. And the cost is great
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Smells devine.

    I absolutely LOVE my circa home candle. It has the best and strongest scent which has not diminished after many uses. The only downside would be that it can sometimes give me a headache it is so strong. I can only use it for small amount of time, however i still love it. Go figure.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • divine

    the smell is amazing, the candles, well what can I say except wow [ it goes right threw he house ] and the soap is very rich and creamy, very indulgent
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • beautiful and scent last for ages.

    I've tried this and it's fantastic it leaves a beautiful fragrance smell in my house for many hours and would recommend this product to everyone.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Great products, beautiful scents.

    I love Circa products and am always buying them as gifts, they are very well priced and the smells are amazing. The jasmine and magnolia candle is my absolute favourite and it leaves my house smelling amazing, I'm always getting comments about the smell. Love them and can't recommend them enough!
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Very elegant gifts for yourself or others

    I purchases some scented soaps and sachets from their website. I was very happy with the quick service they provided. My items was carefully delivered and I was very pleased with my purchases. Excellent value for money and great for yourself or others. The smells are dreamy!
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Divine!!

    These products are DIVINE!! I have bought some candles for myself, and one as a gift for my friend for her birthday. The smell the candles emit when lit is just divine and it lingers in the air. I have bought many scented candles in my time, that smell beautiful but when lit, they dont really give off a scent...these wont disappoint!!!!
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • aromatic

    the aromas are scentsational!
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money


  • Circa Candles Christmas

    Circa candles have lit our Christmas dinner table and our home for two years now and I am pleased to say that they always fetch me loads of compliments on how beautiful my home smells. Not only do they smell gorgeous but they look stunning too and have a long burn time. I give them for gifts at Christmas and on Birthdays - I would definitely recommend Circa Candles to anyone looking for quality candles.
    Would you recommend Circa Home to others?
    Circa Home products have & create a beautiful scent
    I would purchase Circa Home products for others
    I would purchase Circa Home products for myself
    Circa Home products are great value for money

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The right lunch box helps keep little humans nourished while making life a lot easier for mums and dads! So to help you find the perfect one faster, we’ve put the best kids’ lunch boxes for school in Australia in one handy spot.

Kids’ lunch boxes have come a very long way. No longer just plastic boxes for toting treats, they’re now durable, washable, droppable and best of all, easy for kids to use. There are heaps of different styles to choose from, and if you head to the bottom of this article, you’ll find more information on what to look for, how to choose the right one for your child, and even what to put in it!

Whether you’re after a colourful lunch box to match that new drink bottle, or a machine-washable option that saves you time, there’s something in our shortlist for every type of foodie.

The Star Patrol Mini Lunch Case.
The Star Patrol Mini Lunch Case. Image: The Somewhere Co.

Lunch Box Comparison Table

If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to lunch box shopping, check out our comparison table below as a handy guide. (Use the bottom slider to see all brands)

The table below is a guide only. Products are subject to changes by brands.

MontiiCoB.BoxFrank Green Lunch ContainerYumboxSky Gazer Bentgo ModernThe Somewhere Co. MiniEcoCocoonBright Star KidsStuck On YouCountry Road ElysiaOmieBox
StyleBagBentoBoxBentoBagBentoBagBentoBagBentoBagBento
Colour variationsYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYES
MaterialFabric & aluminium liningPP & siliconeStainless steel & siliconeABS, tritan & siliconeFabric & PEVA liningBPA-free plasticRPET & aluminium foil liningStainless steel & siliconeFabric & insulation liningBPA-free plastic100% cotton canvas & insulation liningStainless steel, plastic & silicone
Start price$42.95$27.95$79.95$49.95$34.99$39.95$38$84.95$39.95$54.95$59.95$89.95
Loved for itsRoomy size & machine washable designCustom divider3-in-1 designPortion-controlled sectionsUnique designsRemovable sandwich dividerShoulder strapDishwasher-safe partsPersonalisationLeak-proof silicone sealInternal name labelStorage for hot and cold food
Mouths Of Mums Kids’ Lunch Boxes Comparison Table. (The products above are featured in our shortlist below.)

How to choose the best lunch box for school

When you’re searching for a kids’ lunch box, take the time to work out what will best suit their needs. If you make the right choice and invest in a quality one, it will last many years.

  • Box, bento or bag? If your child doesn’t like different foods touching, a bento lunch box is a great choice. Also, think about whether they prefer cut-up or whole fruit; a bento is better suited to cut food, while bags and boxes suit whole fruit. Bags are fantastic if you like to pack separate containers, like smaller bento or snack containers.
  • Freshness is a must – An insulated bag or box will keep everything cool and fresh until snack and lunchtime. But you can also get boxes that come with cold and ice packs. Remember, kids’ lunches often sit at room temperature for up to 5 or 6 hours before they’re eaten, so insulation and coolness are important. Check out how to keep school lunches safe in the heat.
  • Easy-to-clean design – Check if the box is dishwasher-safe, or for lunch bags, if they’re machine-washable.
  • Leak-proof – The last thing you want is a soggy mess at lunchtime, so if buying a hard lunch box, look for designs that are leak-proof with proper seals.
  • Child-friendly – Depending on your child’s motor skills and independence, you may need to start with a product that’s simple to open and close.
  • The right size – We tend to pack way too much in our kids’ lunches, so think about how much realistically you’ll need to pack for your child when choosing the size of their lunch box. You may also need to consider the size of their school bags.

12 Best Lunch Boxes For School Kids In Australia

Ready to get back-to-school sorted? From stainless steel gems to beautiful bentos, we’ve done all the hard work so you don’t have to. So sit back and enjoy our curated Mom Guide of the best kids’ lunch boxes for school in Australia.

Any included reviews come via the Mouths of Mums Facebook Page.

MontiiCo Large Lunch Bags, $42.95

MontiiCo Large Lunch Bags.

These award-winning lunch bags have sold over 200,000 units – and it’s clear to see why. The interior of each large bag measures 29cm x 23.5cm x 7.5cm, making them big enough to fit multiple containers and even many popular bento boxes. Each bag comes with an ice pack for up to eight hours of cooling – and you have a massive range of designs to choose from.

Pros:

  • Interior name label
  • Fabulous large size fits everything!
  • Comes with an ice pack for day-long cooling

“A vote for montii co lunch boxes, lunch bags and freezer bricks (they really do stay frozen all day!!” (Megan)

“Montii lunch bags are the best and the freezer brick can stay frozen for ages I forgot one day and it was still cold after 24hrs” (Sarah)

Where to buy it: MontiiCo, Lime Tree Kids


b.box 2L Kids’ Lunch Box, $27.95

B.box 2L kids bento lunch boxes.

Tired of apples not fitting in hard lunch boxes? b.box has solved this with its flexible ‘whole fruit holder’ that bends around the fruit rather than squashing it – genius! If you’re not keen on cutting up a fruit salad every day, this multi-compartment two-litre lunch box has handy homes for everything. It also comes with a gel cooler pack (a must for Aussie summer!), and it’s freezer-safe. Choose from a range of colours.

Pros:

  • Leak-proof silicone seal
  • Comes with a gel cooler pack
  • The square section is big enough for a regular sandwich

“B-box lunch boxes are the best…all parts come out so you can wash them super easy! So many awesome accessories available for them too!” (Kerrie)

“BBox lunch boxes are great and they fit in the large Montiico lunch bags. As someone has said, the ice brick that comes with it is amazing too” (Tash)

“I really like the B.Box lunch boxes.” (Kendal)

“Bbox is the winner in our community on repeat.” (Mums On A Budget)

Where to buy it: Kitchen Warehouse, Woolworths, b.box


Frank Green Lunch Container, $79.95

Frank Green coloured lunch containers.

Got a Frank Green fan on your hands? This is the lunch box to match their drink bottle. It comes in a gorgeous range of colours suited to all ages and uses 90% post-consumer recycled stainless steel and quality silicone lids. Monograms, bumper guards and ice bricks are all available separately.

Pros:

  • Leak-resistant design for mess-free travel
  • Comes with two microwave-safe removable containers
  • Customisable with your choice of bumper, ice brick and monogramming (at an additional cost)

Where to buy it: Frank Green


Yumbox Kids’ Compartment Lunch Boxes, from $49.95 

Yumbox Kids Bento Box shown in pink and purple options.

With the option of four, five or six compartments, it’s easy to see why Yumbox Bento Lunch Boxes are such a hit with Australian kids. They feature handy, pre-measured half-cup serving compartments to help pack a healthy lunch and contain absolutely no BPA or phthalates. Pop it straight into the dishwasher on the top rack for easy cleaning.

Pros:

  • Top rack dishwasher-safe
  • Includes five half-cup sections for portion control
  • Sections are labelled to help parents with a balanced lunch

Where to buy it: Biome, Yumbox


Sky Gazer Insulated Lunch Bag, from $34.99

Sky Gazer Insulated Lunch Bags.

If your little (or not-so-little) one wants a lunch bag everyone will comment on, this is it. Available in a range of stunning designs, they come with a long and strong handle and easy-use zippers. But good looks aside, what’s winning heart about these is their capacity – they hold up to seven litres of food!

Pros:

  • Water-resistant
  • PEVA internal lining
  • Side pocket for a water bottle

Where to buy it: THE ICONIC, Sky Gazer


Bentgo Modern Bento Boxes, $39.95

Bentgo Modern Lunch Boxes.

After something a bit more mature? Bentgo’s Modern lunch boxes are a great option. They have a sleek matte finish in a choice of four stylish shades, including Mint Green, Orchid, Dark Grey and Navy. Each is cleverly designed with a removable divider that allows you to choose between using three or four compartments. Even better, they are leak-proof, microwave-safe and fine to pop in the dishwasher.

Pros:

  • Kid-friendly latch
  • Antibacterial silicone seal
  • Includes four large compartments

Where to buy it: Kitchen Warehouse, Amazon


The Somewhere Co Mini Lunch Case, $38

The Somewhere Co. Mini Lunch Bags.

Colourful and easy to carry, these bags are insulated, eco-friendly and secure. It features aluminium foil lining that keeps food fresh all day long, and it comes with top-level carry handles and a shoulder strap, which is brilliant for those days when kids have a lot to tote. Choose from a range of styles.

Pros:

  • Roomy and stylish
  • Shoulder strap makes carrying easy (and great if schoolbags are too full!)
  • Zip-front pocket handy for cold packs or notes from mum

Where to buy it: The Somewhere Co.


EcoCocoon Leak-Proof Bento Lunch Box, $84.95

EcoCocoon Leak-Proof Lunch Box with a bagel and fresh food inside.

Large enough for the hungriest of school kids, this stainless steel wonder has a removable silicone seal in the lid to stop thick liquids from leaking. No more soggy anything! There are five handy compartments to make sure all of the food groups are ticked off, with a large compartment perfect for sandwiches, and smaller ones for snacks.

Pros:

  • Dishwasher-safe
  • Every compartment is leak-proof
  • Easy to open and close (suitable for younger kids)

Where to buy it: Biome, EcoCocoon


Bright Star Kids Personalised Lunch Bags, $39.95

Bright Star Kids insulated lunch bags in a row.

Practical and customisable with your child’s name, these insulated bags tick all the boxes. You have a choice of five bag colours, and from there you get to choose from a huge range of designs and fonts to personalise it! Each comes with a mesh pocket for ice bricks, a top carry handle, a secure zip closure and enough internal space to fit a medium bento box.

Pros:

  • Machine-washable
  • Internal mesh pocket for an ice brick
  • With their name on it, you won’t need to visit lost property!

Where to buy it: Bright Star Kids


Stuck On You Large Personalised Bento Lunch Box, $54.95

Stuck On You Large Kids' Bento Boxes.

With a leak-proof silicone seal, these colourful lunch companions keep sauces and dips right where they belong. They come with six compartments, which convert to three for easy washing on the top shelf of the dishwasher. They’re free from any nasties and customisation with your child’s name – no more lost property, yay! Choose from box colours of Matte Navy, Pink Lemonade, Dusky Blue or Seafoam Green- if you can!

Pros:

  • BPA and phthalate-free
  • Top rack dishwasher-safe
  • Separates into three parts for easy cleaning

Where to buy it: Stuck On You


Country Road Elysia Lunch Pack, $59.95

Country Road Elysia Lunch Packs in pink and green.

Uber stylish and as roomy as can be, these contemporary bags are perfect for kids of all ages who prefer to pack several separate containers. It has a 100% cotton canvas outer, an insulated lining and comes with a super handy internal name label. Just as great for preschool as they are for high school.

Pros:

  • Easy-carry handle
  • Internal name label
  • Stylish design, great for kids who prefer muted shades

Where to buy it: THE ICONIC, Country Road


OmieBox Hot/Cold Bento Lunch Box V2, $89.95

Omiebox hot and cold kids' lunch boxes in pink and blue styles.

Finally, a kids’ lunch box that stores hot AND cold food in one place! Designed out of necessity by a problem-solving mum, the OmieBox encourages low-waste lunches and ends the need to use multiple clunky containers (which always get lost!). The spill-proof individual compartments mean no mixing of savoury and sweet, and the  280ml double-wall thermos keeps soups and pasta hot for up to six hours!

Pros:

  • Keeps food hot for up to 6 hours
  • Fabulous for ‘nude food’ lunches
  • Awesome carry handle for younger kids

Where to buy it: Biome, Woolworths


What to put in kids’ lunch boxes

Health professionals agree that kids need a good balance of lean protein, grains, fruit and vegetables throughout the school day. Skip the processed food and try to reach for whole foods that pack a punch in the nutrient department. Here are some great ideas:

  • Grilled chicken or turkey wraps with fresh salad
  • Crackers and vegetable sticks with healthy dips like hummus
  • Whole-grain pasta with cherry tomatoes and your choice of cheese
  • Zucchini slice cut into rectangles for easy stacking in an insulated box
  • Almond-meal slice with raspberries or blueberries – or both!
  • Vegetarian sausage rolls – these freeze well and make a great meat-free lunch when cold.

Top image: MontiiCo

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Do your kids hate sandwiches? Check out these 10 sandwich alternatives that dial up the YUM! 

  • That lunchbox comparison table is handy to have. It helped me make a decision on which lunchbox to buy next for my daughter who is starting kindergarten. I needed to upgrade her lunchbox but wasn’t sure which way to go. The table helped me with my decision. I ended up going with the BBOX and have found a cheaper lunch bag from a department store that it fits in.

    Reply

  • I do not know if anyone else has picked up on this or not, but every bag mentioned in the table above is a ‘designer’ brand. There are plenty of more affordable options that aren’t over $40. I have never spent that much on a lunchbox – even from Smiggle. The cheaper brands last just as well too.

    Reply

  • Getting ready for the return to school has started to kick in so this was a timely read. We have the yum box and i love it, it is so easy for my daughter to open and close on her own. I find the lunch cooler bags also a great idea however some days depending on what else needs to go to school, they can be quite bulky to include in the school bag. I need to do some more research this year as i like the idea of being able to watch it in the washing machine, that is a clever idea.

    Reply

  • Along with all of the other back to school products; there is also a good range of lunch boxes available for people to buy. It has been fun to see the wide range of bottles and lunch boxes that are available for the new year for school and for work.

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  • Lunch boxes have come such a long way since my eldest was a kid, he’s now 26! There’s really a solution to everything from food heating, cooling, dividers, pockets etc etc. Lunch boxes are a real fashion accessory and so on-trend these days. I personally love the Bento lunch boxes. They save on plastic and separate different foods.

    Reply

  • I am such a huge fan of Bento lunch boxes and Bento. Food should be so many wonderful things; including delicious, fun, colourful and nutritious too. Lunch is a favourite meal because the body is ready for some more calories and a boost of energy. Food looks so good in Bento lunch boxes.

    Reply

  • So so many fantastic options! We use the montii co ones for our kdis and swear by it. Its lasted 3 years so far and still standing strong, like new since the first day using it. They are so durable and i find cleaning them to be the easiest for us.

    Reply

  • There are so many great lunch box option out there indeed ! I’ve always liked the Bento style lunch boxes for my kids. It reduces the use of plastic lunch bags and packaged food which aren’t very good for the environment and it encourages to present a good variety of foods (which is not only better nutrition wise but lao to prevent our kids from getting bored with same foods all the time.

    Reply

  • There are some really fabulous options here. So many variations of colour, shape and size. I love the bento style lunch boxes, so handy to keep food separate and eliminate the use of plastic packaging. The machine washable bags are a great idea too. They can get grubby so fast, this would be so much easier to maintain

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  • This has gotten much easier since my kids hit high school – they have strong opinions about their lunch boxes, so I don’t have to think about it so much anymore! However, I am strongly in favor of bento style boxes regardless of their age. They’re easy to clean, easy to pack, and invite appropriate sized portions.

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  • Great article! Our kids are so lucky, when it comes to lunchboxes, they really are spoilt for choice. There are so many to pick from. Regarding sandwiches, my eldest son, used to hate sandwiches for school lunches. It wasn’t until many years later that I discovered that he’d throw out his sandwiches in the playground bins. My son’s an adult now and he still hates sandwiches. He only likes “hot” lunches. So glad he lives on his own now and can make his own “hot” lunches just the way he likes them.

    Reply

  • This is an extremely useful article!! 2 schppl going kids and third starting kinder soon means we are always on the lookout for lunch ideas and lunch boxes. This is a great list with features and prices listed to make the search easier and help with decision making for purchasing of the lunch boxes

    Reply

  • This is super useful article and thank you. I can see so variety of lunch boxes from every store. Always wonder which one would be more convenient to use by little hands. I love some of these lunchboxes to give it a try for this year. And then decide to go with suitable ones

    Reply

  • Wow, lunch boxes have really come such a long way from when I was taking a lunch box to school. Feel old, like “back in my day”, but we were lucky to have options like are available now. While I like some of these designs, I feel like they aren’t super practical.

    Reply

  • These lunchboxes are beautiful but are they really worth the expensive price tag? I have been through so many lunch boxes and bags over the years and found the best it to use an insulated lunchbox bag with ice brick and use small containers to keep individual items fresh and assessable.

    Reply

  • I love the bbox lunch boxes. They are so reliable and tough when kids throw their bags around. Easy to wash and store. I have used the we can be tiny snackies at home too. The boys love choosing a certain animal shape. They wash well, are durable and great quality.

    Reply

  • My kids are old enough now to pack their own lunches and I am so happy to see the great choices they are making. They take left over meals, cook food in the morning to take and now I am confident they aren’t throwing away sandwiches! I do have the chilly bags for them, I find they fit better into bags

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  • Love our bento b.boxes. So easy to pack. I do however worry that they’re made of plastic, not metal….

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  • My daughter uses a bento box now for work and sometimes an insulated bag in summer, but when she was at school it was a rectangular lunch box with no compartments. It was very easy to wash each day, just the box and lid, and it could still be filled with rolls/sandwiches and snacks.

    Reply

  • Lunchboxes are so important these days. Back in my day it was a brown paper bag or the exact same lunch box that everyone else had and there were three compartments. Today its such a fashion statement and as much as the lunchbox itself is judged so are the contents.

    Reply

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