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Forbes
6 days ago
- General
- Forbes
The Best Changing Tables That Combine Style, Storage And Everyday Ease
Changing diapers can feel never-ending, but the best changing tables can help make it feel like less of a chore. A good one helps you stay organized, provides an elevated surface to help save your back and looks nice in the nursery. Many changing tables also easily transition into a dresser or toy storage, growing with your baby for years to come. My top pick for the best changing table is the Pottery Barn Kids Kendall 7-Drawer Dresser And Topper Set —it's beautiful to look at, solid, has plenty of storage and can pull double-duty as a dresser. The best changing tables make it easier to change baby's diaper and are aesthetically pleasing. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS Changing tables can take up a lot of space in your baby's nursery, so take some measurements before you start shopping. If you're shorter on space, a portable option like the Sweeby Portable Baby Changing Table works well, and the Babyletto Swell Changing Table is a simpler option with a smaller footprint. Here, find the seven best changing tables to complete your nursery and make diaper changes easier. If you're looking for a solid piece of furniture that will transition with your child for years, the Pottery Barn Kids Kendall 7-Drawer Dresser And Topper Set is exactly what you need. It's a gorgeous wooden changing table dresser and is available in five different finishes, making it easy to find an option that matches your nursery decor. The wood is a combination of solid sap gum and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). It's also Greenguard Gold Certified, meaning it emits low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and helps maintain healty air quality in your home. There are seven drawers you can use to store diapers, wipes, clothing and other baby necessities. The changing table topper is secured with metal brackets and goes on top of a felt liner so the dresser is protected and isn't scuffed up when you're ready to take the changing table portion off. It also comes with an anti-tip kit so you can securely anchor the table to the wall. To help your baby feel comfortable, you may want to purchase a changing table pad as well. Amazon Storkcraft Modern Convertible Baby Changing Table For a compact yet functional and sleek changing table, the Storkcraft Modern Convertible Baby Changing Table is a great option. 'Many changing tables have storage compartments and other convenience features that can simplify the diaper-changing process for caregivers,' says Audrey Hartfield, an injury prevention education and outreach coordinator at Children's Hospital Colorado. This table has three easily accessible storage areas to hold all of the essentials. Once your baby has outgrown the changing table, the shelves are perfect for storing toys and books. The table is Greenguard Gold Certified, and like our top pick, you can remove the changing topper when your baby outgrows the table. It's made of wood composites, and comes in several unique color options, allowing you to make this a statement piece in the nursery. It doesn't come with a changing pad , however, so you may want to purchase one separately for a little extra cushion. Amazon Babyletto Swell Changing Table I never had a ton of extra room in my babies' nurseries, so a compact option like this sweet changing table was always ideal for me. The Babyletto Swell Changing Table measures just 34.8 by 18.8 inches and features two storage shelves to help maximize your space. The open shelves make it easy to grab diaper-changing essentials quickly and with one hand. Many parents appreciate that the table is Greenguard Gold Certified and that the wood is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. There are three aesthetic color options, and the overall design is modern yet fun and whimsical. The table comes with a thin changing pad, but you can also purchase a thicker compatible changing pad as well as an organic quilted changing pad cover . The Nurture& The Newport Large Dresser allows you to make one investment in a quality piece of furniture that will grow with your child. When purchasing, make sure you add on the changing topper as well as the changing pad. The topper has an extra compartment where you can store some diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream and other essentials. There's plenty of room in the seven dresser drawers for all of your baby's essentials and clothes, too. Materials include rubberwood, plywood and MDF, and the dresser comes conveniently fully assembled. When you're preparing for a new baby, anything that arrives at your doorstep ready to go is a huge bonus. And when they're finally ready to move on from diapers, you can remove the changing topper and use it as a beautiful dresser for years to come. Amazon Graco Hadley All-In-One Convertible Crib And Changer This all-in-one changing table, crib and storage area is an easy way to prepare your baby's nursery. With four drawers and two open storage areas to store diapers, wipes, clothes and other essentials, the changing table part is roomier than you'd think. To extend its longevity, the whole unit can also convert to a toddler bed. I used convertible cribs with all three of my kids, and it was so nice to not have to buy another piece of furniture once they outgrew their crib. The table also comes with a changing pad, so you won't have to buy anything extra. This Greenguard Gold-certified option is made of pine wood, engineered wood and wood composites. Since it's essentially three products in one, this crib-changing table will take up a fair amount of space in the room, so make sure you have a safe spot to place it away from any windows, cords, radiators or other hazardous items. Amazon Sweeby Portable Baby Changing Table A portable changing table allows you to move it from one room to the next or pack it up for travel. When my kids were babies, I typically had two changing stations set up in the house, and having a portable option would have been nice. It's also ideal for easy storage between babies. The rolling changing table has a lot of other great features, including multiple storage pockets, shelves and a rod for hanging clothes. 'Some features, like wheels or adjustable height settings, might make diaper changes more accessible for some caregivers,' says Hartfield. This table can be adjusted to four different heights to accommodate caregivers of varying sizes. When you're shopping for a nursery dresser, you often don't need (or want) a full-size one. This simple and versatile 3-drawer dresser with a removable changing top is just the right size to store baby clothes and diapering necessities. This Greenguard Gold Certified option also comes with an anti-tip kit so you can secure it to the wall to prevent injury, while interlocking drawers help prevent tipping. Keep in mind that it is rather small, so you might eventually need a larger dresser or alternative clothing storage as your baby grows. The Forbes Vetted baby and kids gear team is comprised of experienced parents, writers, editors and product testers. We're passionate about our work and ensuring that the products we recommend are the best. The author of this article, Alicia Betz , is a mom to three and an experienced parenting journalist. She frequently tests and reports on the best baby products, including the best diapers and the best travel strollers . , is a mom to three and an experienced parenting journalist. She frequently tests and reports on the best baby products, including the and the . The editor of this article, Esther Carlstone , is a longtime parenting editor and writer and mom to three. She has extensive experience testing and writing about baby products. , is a longtime parenting editor and writer and mom to three. She has extensive experience testing and writing about baby products. I interviewed Audrey Hartfield, an injury prevention education and outreach coordinator at Children's Hospital Colorado to learn more about changing table use and safety. My process of choosing the best changing tables included research, expert interviews and considering personal experience. We carefully evaluated changing tables on the market, evaluating sizes, specs and features. To curate a list that serves people with different wants and needs, we included a variety of changing table types, including larger multi-purpose options and smaller space-saving options. We ensured that all of the changing tables in this guide meet U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) safety requirements. We also gained more information about changing table safety from Hartfield. (CPSC) safety requirements. We also gained more information about changing table safety from Hartfield. Though we haven't personally tried every changing table on this list, when ratings were available, we only included products that earned at least four out of five stars. We also considered reviews, eliminating options that had a large number of concerning reviews. First and foremost, you want to make sure that your changing table meets all U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) safety standards. According to Hartfield, these standards minimize the risk of injury and fatality. 'Features like guardrails, safety straps, and contoured tabletops to prevent rolling are great for safety when used correctly,' she says Hartfield. Many changing tables, particularly larger ones, also come with kits to anchor it to the wall to prevent tips. Don't skip this step, and if the changing table doesn't come with one, buy a separate kit to anchor any large furniture to the wall. This can help prevent kids from accidentally pulling the furniture down on themselves and getting injured. Height And Size Changing tables prevent you from needing to stoop down to the ground to change a diaper, but they aren't all the same height. Some are taller than others, and some have adjustable heights. Consider how tall you and other caregivers are to find a table that is an appropriate height. Also consider the space you have for the table. If you have plenty of room, you might look for something larger that has lots of storage space. For smaller spaces, a simpler option that only occupies as much space as it needs to is ideal. Extra Features Common extra features include storage areas, wheels and an adjustable height. 'From an injury prevention perspective, these extra features aren't necessary, but if they make it easier for caregivers to utilize the changing table safely every time, they might be worth the investment,' says Hartfield. Consider what features might make your life easier while caring for your baby and shop for changing tables that include those features. What Is The Safest Changing Table? Any changing table that is sturdy and meets CPSC standards is safe, but you also need to use the table correctly. Keep it away from any cords, blinds or other hazardous items, never leave your baby alone on the table band always secure heavy furniture to the wall. Some of our top picks for safe changing tables include the Pottery Barn Kids Kendall 7-Drawer Dresser And Topper Set and the Storkcraft Modern Convertible Baby Changing Table. Is It Worth Buying A Changing Table? Yes, buying a changing table is worth it because it can make your life easier as a new parent. This is particularly true for parents who had a c-section or difficult birth and struggle to bend over to tend to their baby. Changing tables can also help you keep all the newborn essentials organized and at hand, and a convertible option will allow you to continue using it long after your baby has graduated from diapers. What Age Do Babies Outgrow Changing Tables? 'For any child safety equipment, it's important that caregivers read the manual and follow recommended use guidelines,' says Hartfield. Typically, the maximum weight for changing tables is 30 pounds. Many toddlers reach 30 pounds somewhere between the ages of 1 and 2.
Forbes
19-07-2025
- General
- Forbes
The 9 Best Kids Backpacks, According To A Former Teacher And Mom
After spending years as a classroom teacher and now sending my own kids to school, I've seen hundreds of backpacks. The best options are large enough to hold their supplies without being so big that they get overloaded. According to experts, the best backpacks for kids are also ergonomically designed with two padded straps, durable and made of lightweight material. My top pick, the L.L. Bean Deluxe Book Pack has plenty of compartments to organize your child's belongings, is well-known for its durability and is available in a variety of colors. For younger kids needing a smaller backpack, I recommend the State Kane Double Pocket Backpack and the Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack . The best kids backpacks are ergonomic, well-sized and easy to organize. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS 'I always emphasize that the right backpack can make a big difference in a child's posture, comfort and overall musculoskeletal health—especially during the school year when they're wearing it daily,' says pediatric physical therapist Dr. Brittany Nardone. The right blend between a stylish backpack your kid loves and an ergonomic option can help them get excited for the school year ahead. Check out our top picks for the best kids backpacks. Our Top Recommendations Best Kids Backpack Overall: Deluxe Book Pack Best Value Backpack For Kids: Bentgo Kids 2-in-1 Backpack Most Durable Kids Backpack: JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack Best Kids Backpack For Elementary School: State Kane Double Pocket Backpack Best Kids Backpack For Middle School: Calpak Kids Large Backpack Best Kids Backpack For Preschool: Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack Most Stylish Backpack For Kids: Lululemon Everywhere Backpack Best Simple Backpack For Kids: Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack Weight: 1.3 pounds | Cleaning instructions: Spot clean | Water bottle pockets: 2 | Padded straps: Yes | Laptop pocket: Yes The L.L. Bean Deluxe Book Pack has been a go-to for many families for decades. It's simple, durable and does everything a good backpack should. It has padded straps and a waist clip to help support your child's posture, and a plethora of compartments to keep their belongings organized, including two water bottle pockets, multiple interior zipper pockets and pencil pockets. There's also a laptop compartment, which is handy for older kids who may be taking a device to and from school each day. For kids waiting outside at the bus stop or walking to school, it's a great option due to the weatherproof fabric and reflective material. The reinforced bottom and extra strong stitching help with longevity as your kid inevitably throws it on various surfaces. Interventional spine and sports medicine expert, Dr. Yash Mehta recommends L.L. Bean Backpacks. This option provides the strap and lumbar spine padding that he recommends in backpacks for kids. Just note it's on the larger side and recommended for kids ages 10 and up, so be careful not to overload it—especially if your child is younger or smaller. In addition to the traditional solid colors, your child can also choose various fun prints . Amazon Bentgo Kids 2-in-1 Backpack Weight: 1.4 pounds | Cleaning instructions: Spot clean | Water bottle pockets: 1 | Padded straps: Yes | Laptop pocket: Yes The Bentgo Kids 2-In-1 Backpack features an insulated compartment built into the bottom, meaning you won't need to purchase a separate lunch box. It's durable too, meaning you won't have to buy a new one halfway through the year—something I've seen all too many times in my classroom with less sturdy backpacks. Mehta recommends backpacks with padded shoulder straps as well as a chest buckle, both of which are included on the Bentgo backpack. It has a side water bottle pocket as well as various interior organization pockets, and is available in fun prints like Fairies and Trucks. My only caution with this backpack is that it could get too heavy since the lunch box is integrated into the backpack. If your child buys lunch at school or if you want to use a separate lunch box, I really like the Bentgo Kids Backpack . My daughter used this version throughout kindergarten, and it held up really well and garnered plenty of compliments from friends. Amazon JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack Weight: .8 pounds | Cleaning instructions: Hand wash | Water bottle pockets: 1 | Padded straps: Yes | Laptop pocket: No If you've ever had a JanSport backpack, chances are you still have it, that's how durable they are. The brand remains popular with kids today and is ubiquitous in classrooms. The large JanSport Superbreak One Backpack is a larger backpack that's ideal for middle- or high school-aged kids. It has a large main compartment, smaller front compartment and water bottle pocket. This backpack stands out for its simplicity, giving kids the room to pack what they need without having too many pockets to add unnecessary items. At under a pound, it's also super lightweight. It comes in over 30 colors and prints to fit every taste. This backpack has a lifetime limited warranty, and the company still stands by that. This model doesn't have a laptop sleeve, but if that's a feature you want, check out the JanSport Superbreak Plus . Weight: 1.4 pounds | Cleaning instructions: Spot clean | Water bottle pockets: 2 | Padded straps: Yes | Laptop pocket: Yes The State Kane Double Pocket Backpack is designed for kids ages 7 and up, making it just the right size for the elementary crowd. A large main compartment with smaller organizational pockets is the right spot for their binders and books, and a smaller front pocket is ideal for pencils and small extras. It also has a laptop pocket that could also be to hold a folder or small binder. With beautiful styles like 3D hearts sports, it's clearly designed with kids in mind. The styles are design-forward, appealing to both kids and adults. 'All three of my kids have used the State Kane backpack for years, They're durable, comfortable, roomy and have tons of organization pockets that they love,' says baby and kids gear editor Esther Carlstone. 'While I see friends replacing their kids backpacks year after year, mine have just used the same one over and over.' As an added bonus, the brand gives a percentage of the proceeds to helping American families in need, and 45% of the bag is made from recycled materials. Weight: 1.5 pounds | Cleaning instructions: Spot clean | Water bottle pockets: 2 | Padded straps: Yes | Laptop pocket: Yes Finding the right backpack for a middle schooler can be tricky. They're in a major state of transition as they begin to grow up yet still want to hold onto parts of their childhood. The Calpak Kids Large Backpack meets them where they're at, offering a simple and sophisticated design they can customize with bag charms . 'It's nicely padded to make it comfortable and has an elevated design aesthetic that makes it stand out from all the other kid backpacks,' says Carlstone, whose 6th-grader loves the charms. Kids can also personalize the bag with their initials. The backpack has reflective webbing and a built-in Air Tag holder, both nice safety features. The water-resistant fabric is made from 100% recycled polyester. Two water bottle holders, interior organization pockets and a smaller front pocket give them plenty of room to haul everything they need. Though this is a great pick for middle school, it's designed for ages 8 to 12. Depending on how many supplies they're bringing to and from school, you might want to size up to a bigger backpack as they near high school. Amazon The North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack Weight: 1.6 pounds | Cleaning instructions: Spot clean | Water bottle pockets: 2 | Padded straps: Yes | Laptop pocket: Yes High schoolers often want a simpler backpack with a more subdued design. At this age, it's also worth looking for something they can continue to use once they graduate. They'll definitely be able to use the versatile North Face Jester Laptop Backpack backpack for travel and outdoor adventures, too. It has a breathable lumbar panel, padded back panel and padded straps. All of these features are helpful as kids get older and come home with increasingly heavy backpacks or use their backpacks as a multipurpose bag for school and practice. Organization features include two main pockets, internal mesh and zipper pockets and two water bottle pockets. There's also a padded device sleeve, which is essential for many high schoolers. The bungee system on the front can store additional items while reflective material helps keep kids safe if they're walking to and from school. A unique feature is the stand up design, allowing kids to pack and unpack their backpack without it falling over. It's available in dozens of fun and understated colors to suit every aesthetic. Weight: 1.6 pounds | Cleaning instructions: Spot clean | Water bottle pockets: 2 | Padded straps: Yes | Laptop pocket: Yes A popular backpack among the preschool and early elementary crowd, the Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack is cute, customizable and perfectly sized. Nardone recommends backpacks with multiple compartments to organize items, explaining that being able to keep heavier objects closer to the spine can help kids balance while wearing their backpacks. Preschoolers and young kids who are learning to wear a backpack for the first time can certainly keep their items organized in this backpack that has a large main compartment, small front compartment, two water bottle pockets and front straps they can use to clip on their lunch box or other accessories. An interior pocket within the main compartment helps them keep their items organized. It also has a chest clip to help with ergonomics. The small size is ideal for kids ages 4 to 6 while the large size is designed for kids ages 6 to 7. Perhaps most important to preschoolers is the design, and they have plenty to choose from. Patterns include Rainbow Ombre Sparkle Glitter, Classic Camo and more. The material is durable and water-resistant, ensuring it can withstand the stress a preschooler might put it through. Weight: Unknown | Cleaning instructions: Spot clean | Water bottle pockets: 2 | Padded straps: Yes | Laptop pocket: Yes Kids that feel too cool for a traditional backpack might be won over by the Lululemon Everywhere Backpack. It has a minimalist design, and the water-repellent fabric is made of recycled water bottles. The backpack is available in a variety of solid colors, from muted and subdued options to brighter hues that make a statement. Kids who are looking for something that looks a bit more professional or that will transition well once they graduate will like the look of this backpack. There's a large main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve that'll fit up to a 16-inch device, a front pocket and two side water bottle pockets. Though this style is more popular with older kids, parents should know it's a bit smaller than many of the backpacks we recommend for high school, but many reviewers note that it's still roomy. If your child doesn't have too much to bring to and from school, this is a great pick, and it may even help keep them from packing so much that their backpack gets too heavy. Herschel Supply Co. Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack Weight: 1.9 pounds | Cleaning instructions: Hand wash | Water bottle pockets: 1 | Padded straps: Yes | Laptop pocket: Yes Sometimes, simpler is better, and adding too many pockets and extras to backpacks can encourage kids to pack more than they need. The Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack has a large main compartment with a laptop sleeve, a small front pocket, two water bottle pockets and a small top pocket. It has an understated style, too, with classic colors free from any cutesy prints. It's a large bag, ideal for high schoolers or kids nearing high school. The padded straps help ensure they'll be comfortable and the body is made of recycled polyester. . The company offers a limited lifetime warranty, which you won't find with many other backpacks. At Forbes Vetted, the baby and kids gear team thoroughly researches and tests products we recommend, often using them with our own kids before we recommend them to our readers. We recommend products that support you as you raise your kids, like the best parenting books and the best lunch boxes . The author of this article, Alicia Betz , is a former teacher with two degrees in education and a mom to three. She's seen hundreds of backpacks as a teacher and has tested nearly a dozen kids backpacks with her own kids. She's an experienced parenting journalist and product reviewer. , is a former teacher with two degrees in education and a mom to three. She's seen hundreds of backpacks as a teacher and has tested nearly a dozen kids backpacks with her own kids. She's an experienced parenting journalist and product reviewer. The editor of this article, Esther Carlstone , is a longtime parenting editor and journalist and a mom to three. She has experience using many of the backpacks on our list. , is a longtime parenting editor and journalist and a mom to three. She has experience using many of the backpacks on our list. To learn more about what types of backpacks are best for kids, I interviewed pediatric physical therapist Dr. Brittany Nardone and interventional spine and sports medicine expert, Dr. Yash Mehta . Our selection process to find the best kids backpacks included product research, personal experience and interviews with experts. We carefully evaluated the best backpacks on the market as well as well-known favorites. We compared specs and features, including pockets, ergonomics, weight and available patterns. I considered my experience as a teacher seeing hundreds of backpacks, which helped me understand what features make a good, durable option. Nardone and Mehta provided insight on what makes a good backpack for kids, which helped us narrow down our top picks. I spoke to parents in my network about what backpacks their kids like, and I scoured online reviews from parents and kids. All of my top picks have at least four out of five stars on Amazon and other retailers. I aimed to include a variety of types of backpacks, including those geared toward younger kids and older kids. Across the board, experts recommend backpacks with two straps. 'Using both shoulder straps promotes symmetrical alignment and prevents compensatory movement patterns that can lead to aches and pains,' says Nardone. Mehta further explains that kids should tighten the straps so the bag is snug on their back and the weight is distributed evenly. 'Ideally we want the backpack to rest about 2 inches above the waist. Having the straps completely loosened and letting the backpack hang low is a big no-no,' he says. Lightweight Materials 'A lightweight yet sturdy material is key—starting with a heavy backpacks just adds to the load,' says Nardone. Because backpacks tend to get heavy, you want to start with something as lightweight as possible. Most backpacks are around 1.5 pounds, but some ultra-light options are under one pound. Size 'Parents should be mindful of the size of the backpack in relation to their child's body,' says Nardone. 'Ideally, it should not extend past the child's back or be wider than their torso. The bottom of the bag should rest near the top of the buttocks—too low and it pulls the child's posture forward, too high and it can cause shoulder strain.' Be wary of what your child loads in their backpack, too. Ideally, they shouldn't carry more than 10% to 15% of their weight. If their backpack is too big, it leaves them more room to add unnecessary items. Even though younger kids typically need smaller backpacks, make sure the one you choose is large enough to fit a folder. Even preschoolers and kindergarteners often bring home folders and papers, and you don't want the backpack to bend their papers. Ease Of Cleaning Spills happen, and the easier a backpack is to clean, the better. Most backpacks are hand-wash or spot-clean only. If your child is prone to spills and messes, finding an option that's machine-washable is ideal. Available Prints Choosing a backpack is really exciting for kids, especially if they're starting school for the first time. Look for one with a variety of colors or prints your child can choose from. For kids who are reluctant to go to school, this might help them feel a bit more excited. Comfort Look for backpacks with padded straps, back and lumbar support. A chest clip can help a child comfortably carry their backpack, too. Organization Consider what your child will need to bring to school and evaluate whether the backpack meets their needs. Most kids bring a water bottle to school, so an adequately sized water bottle pocket is important. If they need to bring a laptop or other device, look for a padded laptop pocket. Other organization pockets can help them find a space for all the extras like folders, pencils, calculators and more. What Is The Best Backpack Brand For Kids? The best backpack brand for kids is L.L. Bean because their backpacks are stylish, durable and comfortable for kids. They're also large enough for kids to pack everything they need for their day. Are JanSport Backpacks Good For Kids? JanSport backpacks are an excellent option. They're popular among tweens and teens, are available in a variety of colors and prints and the brand offers a limited lifetime warranty. Like many other parents, I've had JanSport backpacks last for years, if not decades. What Size Backpack Should A 10-Year-Old have? 'A good rule of thumb is for the backpack not to exceed 10% to 15% of the child's weight. When you exceed that threshold, kids can start to experience stiff necks, sore shoulders and aching backs,' says Mehta. For most 10-year-olds, a 20-liter capacity backpack is the perfect size.
Forbes
14-07-2025
- General
- Forbes
The Best Lunch Boxes For Kids, According To Editors Who've Packed Them For Years
Packing lunches for my kids is a task I don't always look forward to. After packing hundreds of lunches over the years, I've found that the best lunch box for kids can actually simplify the whole process. The best options are appropriately sized, easy for kids to open and well insulated to help keep their food at the proper temperature. My top pick, the PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box , has built-in ice packs, opens with a zipper little fingers can grasp easily and is available in lots of kid-friendly designs. Here are the best lunch boxes for kids that are cute and easy to use. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS Other top picks include the Bentgo Kids bento box, which is durable and has leak-proof compartments, and the Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie , a classic option that's easy to clean and available in a variety of fun prints and colors. Check out more of our top picks for the best lunch boxes for kids. Our Top Recommendations Best Overall Lunch Box For Kids: PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box Best Value Lunch Box For Kids: Thermos Upright Lunch Box Most Durable Lunch Box For Kids: L.L. Bean Lunch Box Best Bento Lunch Box For Kids: Bentgo Kids Lunch Box Best Stainless Steel Lunch Box For Kids: PlanetBox Rover Best Lunch Box For Kids For Hot Foods: Omiebox Up Best Lunch Box For Kids In Preschool: Wildkin Kids Insulated Lunch Box Best Personalized Lunch Box For Kids: Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Lunch Box Amazon PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box Keeping your child's lunch at the proper temperature is important for food safety, and this can be difficult especially if your child has a late lunch or they're storing their lunch box in a warm area. The built-in ice packs in the PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box solve this problem. 'What I really like about it and why I keep buying these year after year for my three school-age kids—since their preschool days—is that it actually keeps food cold all day even on hot summer camp or classroom days,' says Forbes Vetted deputy editor Rose Gordon Sala . After years of use, she has also found this lunch box to be durable. The size is generous, especially when you consider that you don't need to add any ice packs. It has a front zipper pocket for napkins or small items as well as a buckle handle so you can clip it to your child's backpack. It's available in lots of fun colors and designs, which is important to kids of all ages. The biggest drawback of this lunch box is that you have to remember to put it in the freezer the night before. If you forget to clean out your child's lunch box until the next morning, it won't be ready to go. You can still use it, of course, but you'll have to add ice packs. Thermos Brand Thermos Upright Lunch Box I've been really impressed with the Thermos Upright Lunch Box after testing it out recently. There's enough room to pack a well-portioned lunch, and the water bottle holder and zipper pocket are nice touches. It's easy to fit and organize everything I need in my daughter's lunch, including her drink and napkins. It's an insulated box that also has a hard liner. As a busy mom who cleans out lunch boxes every day, the hard liner makes it so much quicker to wipe, clean and clear out any crumbs. It also has a buckle handle, so you can attach it to your child's backpack. The only major drawback is that it's only available in six colors, but many of these include fun and bright prints that kids like, such as Black Sport Web and Teal Marble. The L.L. Bean Lunch Box is a staple in many homes, and that's largely because it lasts for years. Part of what makes it so durable is the quality construction and the strong outer material that you'll also find on L.L. Bean backpacks . It has a top carry strap making it easy for your child to grab if it doesn't fit in their backpack. With a front zipper pocket and an interior mesh pocket, there are plenty of spaces to store extras like napkins, cutlery and a special note for your child. You can also use the internal mesh pocket to store an ice pack. It's pretty spacious inside and has an easily wipeable interior liner. Available in 11 colors, the insulated box can also be personalized with your child's monogram. Amazon Bentgo Kids Lunch Box With five leak-proof sections, the Bentgo Kids lunch box makes it easy to add some variety into your child's lunch. My daughter used this lunch box often when she was in kindergarten, and it has held up so well that it hardly looks like it's been used. It has definitely been dropped multiple times, and it never popped open or leaked food from one compartment to the next. I like to pair it with the Bentgo Kids Lunch Bag , which makes it easy for kids to carry to school thanks to multiple straps and clips. The bento box itself has a removable tray that's dishwasher and microwave safe. My daughter has no problem opening and closing the latches on it, though I would definitely recommend practicing with your child before sending them to school with it for the first time. As a 6-year-old, this lunch box held enough food for my daughter, but I doubt it will be large enough for much longer. For older kids, check out the Bentgo Pop , which allows for larger portion sizes. I love using stainless steel lunch boxes because I prefer to stay away from plastic when I can, which is why the PlanetBox Rover is one of my favorite options. It has five compartments and I've found that the largest compartment is big enough to hold a sandwich. Even though it's stainless steel, kids can still customize the look by choosing a magnet set they like as well as a carry bag (sold separately). While it's not a leak-proof option, the box does come with two stainless steel containers with lids, so you can pack dips or sauces that won't spill. Practice opening the box and the containers with younger kids before sending them off to school to make sure they can open them. The dishwasher safe box is sturdy, and I've never had it pop open when I dropped it. Forbes Vetted editor Esther Carlstone likes the Rover because it's so durable and easy to clean. 'All three of my kids have their own Rover and it's their go-to lunch box. One box we've used for 10 straight years and it still looks and acts good as new,' she says. 'Cleaning them is also super easy, we even toss them into the dishwasher.' The Omiebox Up is a bento-style lunch box that's a great option for hot foods because it includes a 12-ounce thermos. It also has another compartment with an ice pack that fits right in the box, so you can pack some cold food, too. The cold side includes a removable divider, allowing you to pack two different options. While the lunch box as a whole is leak-proof, the divider is not. 'I like that it's all-in-one so you're not packing several different containers for one lunch,' says Carlstone, who uses this lunch box to pack items like pasta and soup. The container is easy for kids to open and close, just be careful not to shut the thermos too tight, especially for younger kids. It's available in a few different colors, including Cherry Pink and Cosmic Blue. My daughter used the smaller Omiebox to bring mac and cheese or tortellini to kindergarten, and it was a great size for that age. Older kids will definitely want the larger Omiebox Up, though. Amazon Wildkin Kids Insulated Lunch Box When choosing a lunch box for your preschooler, think simple. 'Give them practice opening and closing their lunchboxes independently. Find out how long the lunch period is and practice eating in that amount of time, including the amount of time needed to open and close it,' says registered dietitian Jennifer Anderson. As long as they can open a zipper, they should be good to go with the Wildkin Kids Insulated Lunch Box. There are over 50 fun prints to choose from, helping preschoolers get excited about their first packed lunch experience ( shop other print options here ). My kids have used this lunch box a lot, and it's a great basic option. A front zipper pocket and interior mesh pocket provide plenty of room for packing extras. It also has a top handle to make it easy to grab. The lunch box is the ideal size for preschoolers, and though it's on the smaller side, it can fit some bento boxes. Personalizing school supplies is incredibly exciting, particularly for the elementary crowd. The Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie is available in so many adorable prints, like Iridescent Hearts and Lego, and kids can add their name or initials in a variety of fonts. The insulated bag has a molded liner that makes it easy to wipe clean of crumbs and spills. It also includes an interior pocket, an exterior pocket and a water bottle holder. The top strap is padded, making it comfortable for their little hands to carry to and from school. While the Mackenzie lunch box is ideal for younger kids, older kids might like the more subdued Colby Lunch Box . Sala's tweens prefer this cold pack style over the more cutesy Mackenzie styles. At Forbes Vetted, the baby and kids gear team has decades of experience covering baby and kid topics, testing products and packing lunches for our kids. The author of this article, Alicia Betz , has been testing kids lunch boxes for over five years. She's also a mom to three and frequently tests and reports on kids products, including the best kids luggage and the best kids water shoes . , has been testing kids lunch boxes for over five years. She's also a mom to three and frequently tests and reports on kids products, including the and the . The editor of this article, Esther Carlstone , is an experienced parenting editor and writer. She's also a mom to three and has over a decade of experience packing lunches for her kids in many of the lunch boxes on this list. , is an experienced parenting editor and writer. She's also a mom to three and has over a decade of experience packing lunches for her kids in many of the lunch boxes on this list. I interviewed registered dietitian and founder of Kids Eat In Color, Jennifer Anderson . To choose the best lunch boxes for kids, I relied on expert advice, personal experience and product research. Here's a peek into my process. I've been using lunch boxes for years, including many of the ones on the list. I've seen how they hold up over time and how well they function in the real world, being carted to school, sports, activities and back. I considered input from parenting editors Sala and Carlstone, two moms who have used many of the lunch boxes on the list as well. Anderson provided insight on what makes a good lunch box as well as which ones she has used and found helpful. I compared features of various lunch boxes, considering size, pockets, insulation and more. To cater to a variety of needs and types of families, I included different types of lunch boxes, including bento style boxes and traditional lunch boxes. Your lunch box should be the right size for your child. Some smaller lunch boxes, especially bento boxes, can have a smaller capacity that may not be appropriate for older kids. Age recommendations on lunch boxes are helpful, but consider your child's appetite as well when deciding what size is best for them. Consider how you'll keep your child's lunch cold, too. 'Send packed lunches with two ice packs, one on the top and one on the bottom, inside a sleeve or insulated lunchbag,' says Anderson. Make sure the bag is large enough to include ice packs along with the lunch. Material 'Lunch boxes are typically made from stainless steel, BPA-free plastic and silicone—all excellent options that hold up well,' says Anderson. While plastic tends to be more lightweight, it can be a bit more difficult to clean compared to stainless steel. Many fabric lunch bags are made of polyester or a similar material with a wipeable inner lining. Ease Of Use The biggest consideration when it comes to ease of use is how easily your child can open and close their lunch box. Particularly for younger kids, taking time to make sure they can open their lunch box is very important. You don't want them to struggle to get to their food when they're hungry. Most preschoolers and young elementary schoolers do fine with zippers on traditional lunch boxes, but bento boxes can be more difficult to open. Ease Of Cleaning Packing, unpacking and cleaning lunch boxes can feel relentless. Having a lunch box (or two) that's easy to clean makes life much easier. Some bento boxes are dishwasher safe or have removable compartments that can go in the dishwasher. For lunch bags, look for options that are easily wipeable. What Are The Best Lunch Boxes For Kids? Our top picks for the best lunch boxes for kids include the PackIt Freezable Classic Lunch Box, Thermos Upright Lunch Box and L.L. Bean Lunch Box. All three options are sized well for kids, easy for kids to open and insulated. What Is The Best Material For A Kids Lunch Box? The best material for kids lunch boxes is easy to clean. Plastic, stainless steel and fabric options are all great. When shopping for bento boxes, look for options that are dishwasher-safe. What Is A Good Packed Lunch For Kids? A good packed lunch for kids is balanced, including protein, fruit, vegetables, grains and dairy. However, it's also important to pack things your child will actually eat so they have sustenance to carry them through the day. It's best to pack safe foods in their lunch and save new or adventurous foods for another time.
Buzz Feed
13-07-2025
- General
- Buzz Feed
29 Products To Help Transform Your Patio Into An Outdoor Oasis
Natural reed fencing to help you put up a non-offensive, albeit sometimes necessary, barrier between you and your neighbors without ruining all of the lovely natural light that filters into your yard during golden hour. An indoor/outdoor rug to create a softer spot for your pet to lounge if your yard happens to be lacking in the ~luscious grass~ department. A fast-acting lawn repair formula made up of grass seeds, mulch, and soil amendment will help undo all the damage your beloved doggo (who, obviously, can't help but pee all over your grass) has done to the yard. Now, back to trying to teach Fido *not* to dig up the new grass... A lovely outdoor bench where you can sit and hum "Feed The Birds" while pretending you're Mary Poppins and enjoying some fresh air. A standing weeder (without the chemicals!) in case you've found your dream home, but, unfortunately, it came with a grass full of dandelions. Unwind after a busy day at the office with some therapeutic weeding that won't hurt your back. 👍 A ready-to-spray bleach-free outdoor cleaner to help you tackle stubborn stains without having to break out a pressure washer (phew). It's made with a fast-foaming formula that's safe for plants (double phew). Fare thee well, backyard filth! A projection screen that'll take your outdoor entertaining to the next level. Imagine what the Big Game will look like on this baby?! A waterproof light-up palm tree featuring glorious LED lights from top to bottom that'll bring the tropics to your patio even if you've literally never set foot on a beach. A three-piece rocking chair set you'll want to add to your cart right this second so by next weekend you can have it set up and ready to go. It'll be waiting for you to unwind with at the end of every work day — doesn't that sound amazing? A stylish cedar privacy screen that'll make your deck look a touch more put together without you having to empty your savings account or call upon The Property Brothers for a pricey renovation. An adjustable umbrella with lights inside of it that'll make it an asset to your patio's decor both during the day and at night. A row of colorful flower pots with draining holes and hooks that'll brighten up your deck with very minimal effort. A retro-ish fringe umbrella that'll provide you with shade and the perfect background for the chic Instagram pic you're planning to take so your ex thinks you're vacationing in Bora Bora (despite being in your An inflatable lounge pool even adults can enjoy, so you can pretend you're on vacation in the Hamptons instead of your apartment's tiny patio. A gazebo with curtains to provide shade for you and your friends while you share secrets and preach, "We listen and we don't judge," a la the TikTok trend. A LoveShackFancy x Pottery Barn Kids family-sized towel you and your entire squad can lay out on whether you're in the backyard or at the beach. You can even have it monogrammed so no one accidentally nabs it at your next pool party. A triangular sail you can use to shade your patio and provide a space for your friends and family to gather. Globe string lights that'll transform your patio into a scene straight out of your favorite romance film (think: Edward and Bella dancing in Twilight or Chad Michael Murray and Hilary Duff's moment in A Cinderella Story). A quilted hammock in case you have ~someone special~ in your life, you'd like to snuggle up with while you gaze into the night sky. It has a detachable pillow, so feel free to nap there for hours upon end. Its lovely swaying abilities will make your patio feel so much bigger, even if it's a rather small space. Solar powered light-up flowers to make your boring old patio feel like Alice's Wonderland once night falls. Your friends won't be able to resist taking aesthetic Insta pics of them — imagine how magical they'll look with a cool filter added to them??? A four-piece wicker furniture set that'll help you upgrade your outdoor patio situation without having to make multiple purchases — this one comes with two chairs, a love seat, and a cute lil' coffee table. A set of decorative throw pillowcases you can toss onto your outdoor furniture to give it a fresh, new look and provide your head with a soft landing spot after you've spent the afternoon doing some intense yard work. These are weatherproof, so if you leave 'em out in a rainstorm they'll still remain in tip-top shape. A tabletop fireplace with removable glass so you can enjoy a freshly made s'more any time of year — enter the Emma Stone GIF from Easy A of her saying, "Yuuuuuuum." Or a trendy fire pit decorated with terrazzo stone that'll also double as a coffee table — it's powered by propane so no need to worry about stocking up on logs! Interlocking teak wood tiles you can assemble without reaching for a single tool (amazing). They'll help you transform your rustic-but-not-in-a-cute-way patio into one that's neat, tidy, and ready for guests. A clip-on light that'll easily attach to the patio umbrella you already own and love — no need to splurge on an entirely new one when you can just use this lil' gadget to upgrade it! Solar lights you can screw on along your deck's bannister to add some much-needed brightness to the darkest of nights — no more tripping over a raised piece of the deck on your way back into the house or waving your arms around to trigger the motion sensor to turn the lights back on when you've finally settled in to your seat. An Adirondack chair to replace the worn down, discolored old one she usually curls up in to have a glass of wine while your dad mans the grill. This one is waterproof and has a contoured seat that'll make her feel like she's vacationing in her yard. And an elevated cooling dog bed featuring a breathable material to ensure your best friend doesn't get overheated when they want to keep you company outdoors on the patio 🥹.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
POTTERY BARN KIDS LAUNCHES DEBUT COLLABORATION WITH GLOBALLY BELOVED ENTERTAINMENT BRAND POKÉMON
The New Children's Home and Accessory Collection Celebrates World Famous Pokémon SAN FRANCISCO, June 06, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pottery Barn Kids, portfolio brand of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (NYSE: WSM), the world's largest digital-first, design-led and sustainable home retailer, today announced a collaboration with The Pokémon Company International to launch a new home and accessory collection featuring fan-favorite Pokémon. Since its debut in 1996, Pokémon has become a global phenomenon and one of the most popular and successful entertainment franchises in the world. The new Pokémon & Pottery Barn Kids collection features some of the most recognizable Pokémon, including Pikachu, Jigglypuff and Eevee, on bedding, backpacks, lunch bags, accessories and décor. The Pokémon franchise's enduring popularity spans generations, and the collection with Pottery Barn Kids features iconic designs for kids' bedrooms, playrooms and accessories that appeal to the whole family. "With a dedicated global fanbase, Pokémon has captured the hearts of millions," said Allison Spampanato, Senior Vice President of Product Development, Pottery Barn Kids. "Partnering with such an imaginative brand allows us to create playful, design-forward pieces inspired by beloved Pokémon and crafted with quality to resonate with both kids and parents alike." "Pokémon appeals to fans across generations, and many parents who grew up with the franchise are now sharing their love of Pokémon with their own kids and families," said Amy Sachtleben, Sr. Director, Licensing and Promotions at The Pokémon Company International. "As a cross-generational brand, we're always looking to develop new products that help Trainers of all ages express their fandom, making premium home retailer Pottery Barn Kids the ideal partner for adding a touch of Pokémon to anyone's home or back-to-school gear." For more information, please visit Follow along on social @potterybarnkids and @pokemon. ABOUT WILLIAMS-SONOMA. INC. Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life at home and at all places our customers work, stay and play. The company's brands — Williams Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, Pottery Barn Teen, West Elm, Williams Sonoma Home, Rejuvenation, Mark and Graham, and GreenRow — represent distinct merchandise strategies that are marketed through e-commerce, direct-mail catalogs and retail stores. These brands collectively support The Key Rewards, our loyalty and credit card program that offers members exclusive benefits. We operate in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom and have unaffiliated franchisees that operate stores in the Middle East, the Philippines, Mexico, South Korea and India. ABOUT POTTERY BARN KIDS Introduced in 1999, Pottery Barn Kids offers exclusive home furnishings available online and in stores globally to create kid-friendly, eco-conscious, stylish, and innovative spaces. Pottery Barn Kids' mission is to bring the utmost in quality design, sustainability, and safety into every family's home. Products are rigorously tested to meet the highest child safety standards and are expertly crafted from the best materials to last beyond the childhood years. Pottery Barn Kids is a member of Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (NYSE:WSM) and participates in The Key Rewards, a free-to-join loyalty program that offers members exclusive benefits across the family of brands. ABOUT POKÉMON The Pokémon Company International, a subsidiary of The Pokémon Company in Japan, manages the property outside of Asia and is responsible for brand management, licensing, marketing, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, the animated TV series, home entertainment and the official Pokémon website. Pokémon was launched in Japan in 1996 and today is one of the most popular children's entertainment properties in the world. For more information, please visit WSM-PR View source version on Contacts PR@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
