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Average Ratings (from 162 ratings)
Overall star Rating
DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.
DermaVeen Baby Calmexa Soap Free Wash and Shampoo :
4.8 out of 5 based on 162 reviews.

Cleanse and protect your baby’s delicate skin with the DermaVeen Baby Calmexa Soap Free Wash and Shampoo.

Giving the utmost care and attention to your baby’s delicate skin is a priority, especially when it comes to bath time. That’s why DermaVeen designed the DermaVeen Baby Calmexa Soap Free Wash and Shampoo, that’s specially formulated to cleanse your baby’s delicate skin, hair and scalp.

Australian made and enriched with over 87% naturally derived ingredients, this soap-free cleanser has been dermatologically tested and designed to create a gentle cleansing experience for your baby.

Why we love this Soap Free Wash and Shampoo

DermaVeen Calmexa soap free wash is formulated with 100% natural colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, and kakadu plum. Colloidal oatmeal is renowned for its soothing properties, which helps relieve dry and sensitive skin, while ceramides work to strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture. The addition of kakadu plum contains vitamin C and antioxidants to protect sensitive skin.

The DermaVeen Baby Calmexa Wash and Shampoo is:

  • Clinically tested to be gentle
  • Non-drying
  • pH friendly
  • Skin microbiome friendly
  • Tear and sting free
  • Dermatologically tested
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Free from soaps, fragrance, parabens, sulphates, phthalates, alcohol, silicone, mineral oil, phenoxyethanol and artificial colours.

How to use DermaVeen Baby Calmexa Soap Free Wash and Shampoo

To use, simply wet your baby’s hair and body with warm water. Apply the product with your hands or a cloth, massage gently into a light lather (avoiding the eye area), rinse and pat dry. For use in the bath, add to running water and stir through thoroughly with your hands.

To complete your bath time routine, use the DermaVeen Baby Calmexa Soap Free Wash and Shampoo in conjunction with the other DermaVeen baby products. All designed for sensitive, dry or eczema-prone skin, the DermaVeen baby range is the best way to provide delicate care for your baby’s skin.

Where to buy

You can find the DermaVeen Baby Calmexa Soap Free Wash and Shampoo at selected retailers. Shop now at Chemist WarehouseMy Chemist and Woolworths.

See what our reviewers thought


Published 1st September 2023


  • Amazing baby wash and shampoo

    I absolutely love the Dermaveen soap free wash and shampoo for my baby’s skin. It’s very easy to use and was very gentle on his skin. My baby has quite sensitive skin so I was so pleased to have found something that worked great and didn’t irritate his skin at all. I love that it’s over 87% naturally derived, Hypoallergenic and fragrance free. If you haven’t given it a go I highly recommend to try this baby wash and shampoo.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Best baby wash body and hair

    DermaVeen baby body wash and shampoo is very gentle for baby skin. Makes baby skin soft and fresh. Amazing range with no nasties. Highly recommend for all the parents.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • DermaVeen is gentle on my babies' skin.

    DermaVeen was so great to use. It was gentle and nourishing. It did not dry our their skin. It did not sting so there were no tears from any of the babies. I also love how there are no nasties in the ingredient list. I have never used it before and have definitely been converted. It made bath time fun.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Smooth as a babies bottom

    With a child who suffers for eczema-prone skin we are always looking for trusted brands with nautical ingredients to help prevent flare ups. The helped to keep dry skin soft all day and the soap free wash is just what we need! Great product from a great brand!
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Good Wash

    I really liked this 2 in 1 wash and shampoo for my 3 month old. It was gentle on his skin but also cleaned him well. I would definitely repurchase this product.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • It’s the most gentle baby wash

    It’s the most gentle baby wash & shampoo we’ve used. Although Miss M doesn’t have overly sensitive skin, she definitely has the occasional irritation from the swim school pools, sand and insect bites.

    The Dermaveen Soap free wash & shampoo has been so gentle on her skin, providing her with comfort and softness with naturally derived ingredients. The soap free wash & shampoo is actually the first we’ve used that hasn’t caused tears or stinging when washing around the eyes, others say they don’t but Dermaveen truly doesn’t as shown in the video

    I asked her if it smells nice, there actually isn’t any fragrance in the wash, it’s all natural from the ingredients, which has pleasant smell, not overpowering like strawberry or bubblegum (IYKYK). We are enjoying using the wash and would definitely recommend as the number once choice for all mums with bubs.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Fantastic

    Very effective and gentle wash to use on sensitive and new skin. Its fantastic. No fragrance and made my little guys skin sliky smooth even after the first try. The no fragrance was such a bonus as little ones already have that gorgeous baby smell and it never irritated his sensitive skin. Fantastic product and thankful for being selected to trial.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Dermaveen wash and shampoo

    Dermaveen is very gentle in my baby's skin which is why it's my first brand to go when buying baby products. Highly recommend dermaveen.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • What a winning product!

    A bathtime must have for my 20 month-old baby. He has very delicate and sensitive skin so I must be careful with the products I use. I can honestly say this Dermaveen baby wash and shampoo is gentle yet cleansing on his skin. It leaves his scalp clean and clear with a pleasant light scent. I'm really very impressed, I'll be buying this again for my son. It's a great product for sensitive bubs, in fact it's a winning product to me!
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Happy skin

    My son has eczema prone skin. We find it hard to use baby wash on him as a lot sets it off. DermaVeen soap-free baby wash has been amazing. It does not have a strong perfume which is fantastic! My little ones skin now looks so healthy and feels so soft. I would highly recommend!
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Amazing baby wash and shampoo

    I absolutely love the Dermaveen soap free wash and shampoo for my baby’s skin. It’s very easy to use and was very gentle on his skin. My baby has quite sensitive skin so I was so pleased to have found something that worked great and didn’t irritate his skin at all. I love that it’s over 87% naturally derived, Hypoallergenic and fragrance free. If you haven’t given it a go I highly recommend to try this baby wash and shampoo.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • nice llight scent

    easy to wash hair, no sore eyes, lathered well,felt confident as a mum using this on bubs hair
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Really good

    This brand is really great. They make really great and caring skincare products for the entire family.

    This soap wash is gentle on the skin and it’s easy to use.

    My little one has eczema-prone skin and this is gentle on him.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • DermaVeen wash and shampoo

    I’m a big fan of baby products that are an all in one and that are a good product. This wash and shampoo smells beautiful and left my baby clean and washed well. It foams up really well and it’s great for fresh sensitive baby skin. I actually use this brand on myself so to know that they have a great baby wash that is great on my babies skin too has made me prefer this brand for our whole family a lot more
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Sensitive skin, DermaVeen Baby has it covered

    Our whole family has always had sensitive skin and our new addition is no different. The product is easy to apply (no excessively thick sensitive product here) and leaves baby's skin feeling soft, hydrated and not irritated. Thanks DermaVeen Baby
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Cleans with no tears

    I was pleasant surprised with how this product was easy to use due to the pump bottle (it is so hard to wrangle a little one and try and get a cap off in the bath) and how gentle it was on her as well as giving such a great clean after a day of mushing stuff in her hair. I would highly recommend using it for little ones with sensitive skin as it gave her no irritations!
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Soft skin all the time

    Super soft to apply

    Non irritating to the skin

    No harsh smells
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Gentle on Skin

    The Dermaveen Baby Calmex Soap Free wash and Shampoo is a gentle wash that is specially formulated for babies with sensitive skin. With all the natural ingredients which are free from harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritations. My son has a sensitive skin and this soap is an absolute winner. We definitely love this products
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • AMAZING!

    MY15 month old and 2.5yr old have eczema prone skin. We've been using this product paired with the DermaVeen Moisturiser for 2 weeks now and have seen a massive improvement! Their skin is smooth and there hasn't been any scratching. We are so happy to have found a product that works wonders, smells amazing and is safe for all of our 3 little ones.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Nourishing for my baby’s skin

    I used this in my 1 year olds bath to wash him and wash his hair. Great for his skin, did not cause any irritation but instead left his skin feeling very soothed.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Best baby wash body and hair

    DermaVeen baby body wash and shampoo is very gentle for baby skin. Makes baby skin soft and fresh. Amazing range with no nasties. Highly recommend for all the parents.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Love!

    I love that this shampoo is soap free and australian! I also noticed how non drying it was for my baby's skin, he is quite sensitive to a lot of

    products but he didn't react at all to this shampoo! Love
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Gentle and easy

    Easy to use and convenient as well as gentle on my little baby’s skin. Would use again
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Give it a try!!

    DermaVeen is definitely worth the try. We've been using it for 2 weeks and my 2 young boys love it during bath time, no tears or tantrums because it's in their eyes. Highly recommended to new mums and mums with young kids.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Love

    We love this dermaveen wash as it is super gentle on bubs skin and leaves it feeling soft and refreshed. I don't have to worry about any nasties either which is amazing! Love overall and would highly recommend to all mums and dads for newborns or toddlers.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Gentle clean goodness

    Dermaveen Soap Free wash was so gentle on my baby’s skin at bath time. I loved that it had no irritating fragrances and the ingredients were calming and soothing for sensitive baby skin. It even helped with cradle cap!
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Tantrum free bathtime!

    The shampoo was great! Perfect for my little one with no tears and no tantrums.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • DermaVeen is gentle on my babies' skin.

    DermaVeen was so great to use. It was gentle and nourishing. It did not dry our their skin. It did not sting so there were no tears from any of the babies. I also love how there are no nasties in the ingredient list. I have never used it before and have definitely been converted. It made bath time fun.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Best to trust

    I am amazed to see the results by using DermaVeen. This helps my baby with her eczema-prone skin. I really recommend to my friends.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.


  • Tear free and very happy baby.

    DermaVeen Baby Calmexa Shampoo and Bodywash was a lovely all in one product. I can say the no more tears is correct as I tried it for myself to see if it really was tear free. Left my babies skin feeling baby soft, gentle enough on eczema prone skin and left hair feeling clean. Very gentle product and most important soap free.

    Loved the packaging.
    DermaVeen is gentle on my baby’s skin.
    DermaVeen soothes delicate baby skin.
    DermaVeen nourishes and protects my baby's skin.
    I would highly recommend DermaVeen.
    DermaVeen is a brand I trust for my family.

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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.

    Reply

  • 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

    Reply

  • 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.

    Reply

  • 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

    Reply

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

    Reply

  • 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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