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Average Ratings (from 80 ratings)
Overall star Rating
Soften provides value for money
I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now
Soften Fabric Conditioners :
4.4 out of 5 based on 80 reviews.

Wake up and smell the softness with Soften’s range of Australian made fabric conditioners.

The Soften Fabric Conditioners range is formulated with fine essential oils and fragrances that make your laundry feel cleaner and smell fresher for longer.

MoM Members selected to trial and test Soften Fabric Softeners received either Soften Island Oasis Fabric Softener or Soften Sensitive Fabric Softener.

Here’s what our mum Michelle thought of Soften:

Soften Island Oasis Fabric Softener 500ml

Provides 21 days of freshness, makes ironing easier and reduces static cling.
$2.50 only at Woolworths.

Soften Sensitive Fabric Softener 1L $3.80

Makes ironing easier, dermatologically tested and reduces static cling.
$3.80 only at Woolworths.

The full Soften range includes:

woolworths soften sunny glow 2LSoften Sunny Glow Fabric Softener 2L | $2.99 at Woolworths woolworths soften lavender hillSoften Lavender Hill Fabric Softener 2L | $2.99 at Woolworths
woolworths soften sensitiveSoften Sensitive Concentrated Fabric Softener 1L | $3.80 at Woolworths woolworths soften ocean freshSoften Ocean Fresh Concentrated Fabric Softener 1L | $3.80 at Woolworths
woolworths soften oriental kissSoften Oriental Kiss Fabric Softener 1L | $3.80 at Woolworths woolworths soften concentrate ocean freshSoften Ocean Fresh Fabric Softener Concentrate 250mL | $1.19 at Woolworths

Also available in the Soften range:

woolworths soften botanical blissSoften Botanical Bliss Fabric Softener 500mL woolworths soften island oasisSoften Island Oasis Fabric Softener 500mL

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woolworths strike household cleaners product review 750x516See what mums are saying about STRIKE HOUSEHOLD CLEANERS here Clean Laundry Liquids and Powders_product review_main image_750x516See what mums are saying about CLEAN LAUNDRY POWDERS and LIQUIDS here

What’s happening on Instagram?

#mouthsofmums #softenfabricconditioners

Photos coming soon…


Published 25th April 2017


  • Value for money

    I love the clean washing powder, its well worth the money, left my clothes smelling fresh, the fabric softener is amazing, those 2 products are the only ones i will use and buy
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Love that my clothes smelt like an Oriental Kiss!

    Prior to being selected to review Clean sensitive washing powder, I had been given a bottle of Soften oriental kiss by my mother in law. I have been known to stand in the aisle and select my fabric softener based on fragrance- so it's safe to say that I'm fairly picky about the scents that I choose. As you could imagine, the first thing I did upon receiving the bottle was open it and take a whiff. So far, so good, but would the fragrance remain on my clothes after they were dry? I have been known to 'break up' with softeners in the past because they failed to do this. Soften had big shoes to fill, and it delivered! My clothes came out smelling like roses! (actually more like oriental kiss, but you get what I mean ????).

    The fragrance remained on the fabric, and my husband didn't complain that he smelt like a lady. When I found out the price, it was the icing on a very delicious smelling cake! I made sure this product made its way into my shopping list.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Best Product for Sensitive Skin

    My husband has a couple of skin conditions and we have tried a dozen different products and the Soften Sensitive has been the best yet. His skin does not seem to react to this product. I would thoroughly recommend this range.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Fabulous value for the money!

    I love to use Fabric Softener for all my clothes, linen and towels but have been scrimping on some items because of the cost .... Soften is not only an effective product but a great cost saving too! At a fraction of the cost of other fabric softeners, it delivers big time! Cost savings, effectiveness and scent - it more than exceeds my expectations! I've finely found the perfect solution to my laundry needs!
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Lovely New CLEAN laundry products from WOOLIES

    Nearly half price of big brand half price special, it good value.

    The cleaning result and smell is nearly the same as most big brands. Great products from Woolies!
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Laundry power is a great bargain!

    It clean clothes brighter and smell nice, and it only costs $3.5 for 1 kg, what a bargain!
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • So much better then I thought

    I was pleasantly surprised with thus product. It's an excellent softener for tge price. It smells lovely and the smell lasts for ages. My clothes come out feeling extra soft and clean. I am just amazed that such an economic product dies such an awesome job. Really enjoying using it
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • :)

    Will deffinetly be recomending this to all my family and friends and will be using tis myself from now on:)
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • What a amazing product

    I used this for the first time and when washing finished I could smell the softener so much I love it never in the last 5 years been able to find something like that great job guys
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Beautiful fresh smelling laundry

    I'm so glad to find Soften Island Oasis Fabric Softener. It has the best smell by far and stays in the fabrics. Towels smell wonderful and feel so soft. The first time I used Island Oasis Fabric Softener, I had a bag of clothes that I had washed with Island Oasis Fabric Softener in the car. After parking and getting back into the car I could smell the clothes. It made my car smell good too! Very easy to order using Woolworths online shopping. Gets delivered to your door
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Value for money

    I love the clean washing powder, its well worth the money, left my clothes smelling fresh, the fabric softener is amazing, those 2 products are the only ones i will use and buy
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Best brand on the market

    Soften really is the best brand of softener on the market. It is quite easy to make up - you just need a 2L bottle, and then also easy to use. I find that I don't use much of the product, so it probably reaches the 25 washes limit posted on the bottle. It leaves my clothes soft and smelling great. I am not a fan of the ocean blue smell, and prefer the sunny yellow one (name escapes me right now).
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Love this product

    I switched to soften a year ago. I have always made up my softener, jut like my grandmother before me. I found that a lot of softeners on the market were quite expensive for what they offered. Soften on the other hand is inexpensive, and easy to make up. It leaves my clothes soft and smelling great. Would recommend.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Freshness

    Love the variety of clean products. There is such a great variety that it is all you need to fill the laundry. The freshness smell of each product and the ingredients with no harmful ingredients in each product. I found the smell was long lasting especially the fabric softener which made me feeling refreshed all day. The sheets on the bed are relaxing also.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Just valuable

    When I first used this soften I was like ok let's see just give this a try I know it won't work. But I was wrong it did. It really soften my clothes in the first go and after that it is just a must buy product at least for me. It smells so good that after washing you will feel so fresh. As you know your family members are going to happy .
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Ladies, stop wasting your money on Fabric Softeners

    They don't work.

    I bought this by mistake thinking it was "soft" detergent for delicates but decided to try it anyway. I feel nor smell no difference in my towels. Granted, I don't have a dryer and hang my towels in the sun so they will always go back to that crunchy feeling. White Vinegar is all you need. It does exactly the same thing as fabric softener. Cheaper. And probably nicer to the environment.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Lovely & soft and fresh

    I love how it is so soft on the clothes. The smell is so fresh. I just love that about soften conditioner.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Worth the money

    I never used to use fabric softener. To me it was just another unnecessary expense for something that didn't really do much.

    I have been using the Soften Sensitive and am now sure to include it in every wash. For a sensitive product it still has a great smell, and I know that I can wash my family's clothes with Soften Sensitive and whether it's my partner, my teenagers or my 9 month old baby, everyone will have fresh, pleasant smelling and comfortable clothes without having to worry about reactions. Definitely a product I will continue to use.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Beautiful fresh smelling laundry

    I'm so glad to find Soften Island Oasis Fabric Softener. It has the best smell by far and stays in the fabrics. Towels smell wonderful and feel so soft. The first time I used Island Oasis Fabric Softener, I had a bag of clothes that I had washed with Island Oasis Fabric Softener in the car. After parking and getting back into the car I could smell the clothes. It made my car smell good too! Very easy to order using Woolworths online shopping. Gets delivered to your door
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Soft, Fresh & Value for Money

    I have been using "Soften Sensitive" for quite a few weeks now and I am totally converted. Excellent value for money. It smells great; a clean fresh scent that the family loves. I just wish it was available in a bigger container.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Impressed

    Each time I use Soften Island Oasis I am continually amazed by how soft my clothes feel and how clean they smell. I have put my clothes on the line and I have also put them in the dryer. The clothes in the dryer seem softer than now that I use Soften
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Softness is the word

    My DIL gave me some of this when I ran out , trying to get me to change. I was amazed at how well it softened my towels. The family loves how it smells and their softer clothing. Upon finding the costs I now no longer use any other softener. I would recommend this to anyone who asks about it.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Great value for money

    I was pleasantly surprised by the results of Soften.

    Given the price, you would not expect the best results. The fragrance is noticeable - though I wouldn't say it lasts as long as more expensive softeners.

    Clothes did come out nice and soft.

    Overall, great value for money and I'll be trying out different scents to find my favourite one! The pocket friendly price is definitely a winner.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Soften my ideas on softeners

    I'm just a bit mixed about my opinion. I tried ocean fresh which I thought had a lovely fragrance. It was on special and I felt good value for money. I'm not sure it made that big of a difference to my clothes and felt that my ironing was the same as usual.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Great stuff

    I love clean and gently soft clothes. I love using this product to achieve the best quality result. I would highly recommend this to all of my family and friends for softening goodness. These products are easy to use and simple to understand. They are easy to store and colourful too
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Great

    I love the low cost price for these softening conditioners, they are so affordable and makes them desirable on their own. I love the different types and smells that come with them, they leave your clothes smelling lovely every time. I love that they do a great job to condition and soften the clothes, the most important reason for using them I would easily say. I would let me friend / family / or strangers know how good I think these are. I like the product and will use frequently
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Softening goodness

    I love fabric softeners and would never wash my, my kids or my hubbies clothes without them. I love the smell of the soft brand and I also love the price - it is very affordable and sustainable for young families. I would highly recommend this to all of my family and friends with children and those who like soft and nice smelling clothes. Thanks for the nice products
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Great product, will use again

    This product was quite pleasant smelling, left my clothes soft and smelling fresh. I purchased as they were on sale as part of a promotion. I will purchase again when on sale but otherwise will stick to my regular fabric softener as I have a favourite that I have used for many years
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Great product

    Great products, great price.
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now


  • Very impressed

    Sorry have had trouble posting.

    I am very happy with this fabric softener as I have sensitive skin and have to be careful what I use. But this product is fantastic and leaves clothes smelling nice and feeling soft
    Soften provides value for money
    I would recommend Soften to my family and friends
    Soften exceeded my expectations of a low cost fabric softener
    Soften left my clothes feeling soft and smelling fresh
    I am likely to buy Soften over other fabric softeners now

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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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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.

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  • 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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