Packing school lunches and on-the-go snacks often means a constant cycle of single-use plastic bags. Not only is this wasteful for the environment, but it can also be costly over time. Thankfully, a new generation of reusable snack bags offers a practical, eco-friendly, and stylish solution for busy families.
These bags come in various materials, from durable fabrics to flexible silicone, each with unique benefits like insulation, leak-proof seals, and dishwasher-safe convenience. Finding the right one can feel overwhelming with so many options. To simplify your search, we’ve rounded up the best reusable snack bags that are designed to withstand the rigors of a child’s backpack while keeping their food fresh and secure.
Our Top Picks for Reusable Kids’ Snack Bags
- green sprouts Reusable Insulated Sandwich Bag
- Planet Wise Reusable Sandwich Bags
- wegreeco Reusable Bags – Set of 3
- Artovida Reusable Lunch Baggies
- Stasher Premium Silicone Reusable Food Storage Snack Bag
- Bumkins Reusable Snack Bags, 2-pk Jungle and Animal
- Lerine 16 Pack Reusable Snack Bags Dishwasher Safe
- Lunchskins Reusable Snack Bag, Set of 5
- Zip Top Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags
green sprouts Reusable Insulated Sandwich Bag
For parents who need to keep lunches at the right temperature, the green sprouts insulated bag is a fantastic choice. Its specialized construction includes an inner lining that protects food from direct contact with the waterproof layer, ensuring safety and freshness. The insulated layer is effective at helping to maintain the temperature of both warm and cool foods, making it versatile for a variety of snacks and meals.
The material is food-safe, waterproof, and designed for easy cleaning. This bag is more than just for sandwiches; it can conveniently hold utensils, wipes, and other lunchbox essentials, helping to organize your child’s meal in one compact package.
Planet Wise Reusable Sandwich Bags
Planet Wise offers a durable and eco-friendly solution with their printed reusable bags. Composed of an inner EVA layer and an outer fabric layer, these bags are built to last through many uses. A key benefit is that the material won’t absorb odors, which means you can confidently store flavorful snacks without worrying about lingering smells for the next use.
The secure zipper closure ensures that snacks stay put, even in a jostling backpack or diaper bag. By choosing these reusable bags, you make a positive choice for the environment, significantly cutting down on single-use plastic waste while also saving money over time.
wegreeco Reusable Bags
This set from wegreeco provides excellent value with three different sizes to accommodate small snacks, sandwiches, and larger items. The small, medium, and large bags offer flexibility for whatever you need to pack. They are conveniently machine washable, making cleanup after a busy day simple and straightforward.
The double-layer fabric construction is designed to be leak-resistant and more airtight than single-layer options. While they are not completely airtight due to their fabric nature, the precise stitching and quality materials provide a reliable seal. The smooth closure is a practical feature that doesn’t hold onto crumbs.
Artovida Artists Collective Reusable Lunch Baggies
For families who appreciate artistic design, Artovida bags offer a unique and stylish alternative to plain plastic. These bags are not only eco-friendly but also feature beautiful patterns that make lunchtime more fun. The easy-open zipper is designed with an embroidered gripper tab, making it simple for little fingers to open and close the bag independently.
Cleaning is hassle-free, as these bags are dishwasher-safe, grease-proof, and moisture-proof. They are designed for quick drying and, with repeated washings, will soften and develop a comfortable, broken-in feel, much like a favorite pair of jeans.
Stasher Premium Silicone Reusable Food Storage Snack Bag
Stasher bags are a leader in the reusable silicone category, known for their durability and versatility. Made from pure platinum food-grade silicone, they are free from lead, latex, BPA, and phthalates. The leak-free Pinch-Loc seal is highly effective at keeping air out and food fresh.
Their true strength lies in their multi-functionality. These containers are safe for the dishwasher, microwave, oven, freezer, and even sous vide cooking. This means they can be used for far more than just snacks, from meal prepping to storing toiletries, replacing hundreds of single-use plastic bags per year.
Bumkins Reusable Snack Bags
Bumkins reusable bags are made from their original waterproof fabric, which is 100% polyester with an embedded TPU layer. This construction makes them a great tool for reducing waste, and they also function well as organizers for small items in a purse or travel bag. The fun jungle and animal prints are especially appealing to children.
It is important to note that while the fabric itself is waterproof, the zippered closure means the bags are not completely leakproof for very runny liquids. Parents can have peace of mind knowing that Bumkins products are safety tested by third-party labs to comply with standards for BPA, Lead, and Phthalates.
Lerine 16 Pack Reusable Snack Bags
For large families or those who want a bag for every purpose, the Lerine 16-pack offers incredible value. These bags are made from a food-grade PEVA material that is BPA-free and safe for the freezer, helping to prevent freezer burn. A double closure design makes them leak-proof and airtight, which is ideal for preserving food freshness.
Cleaning is convenient, as they are dishwasher safe (top rack) under 120°C/250°F, though hand washing is also recommended. The newly designed anti-slip lock makes the bags easy for everyone to open and close securely. Be aware that dark sauces may cause staining, but this does not impact the bag’s functionality.
Lunchskins Reusable Snack Bag
Lunchskins is a well-known brand that focuses on creating practical and sustainable lunch solutions. Their reusable snack bags are designed to be a direct replacement for disposable plastic bags, helping to reduce your environmental footprint. The set of five provides plenty of bags for a full week of snacks and lunches without any single-use waste.
These bags are typically constructed with food-safe materials and feature a secure closure to keep contents fresh. They are easy to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher, making them a low-maintenance addition to your kitchen routine.
Zip Top Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags
Zip Top bags stand out with their unique stand-up, rectangular design that functions more like a traditional container. This shape makes them easy to fill, store, and clean. Made from high-quality silicone, they are a safe and durable option for food storage, free from harmful chemicals like BPA.
These versatile bags are built for various uses, from packing snacks to storing leftovers in the fridge or freezer. Their sturdy zip-top closure is designed to create a reliable seal. The ability to stand upright is a significant advantage for organization in a lunchbox or refrigerator.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Reusable Snack Bags for Kids
As a parent, I know the daily grind of packing snacks. It feels like I’m constantly filling little bags, only to have them end up in the trash after one use. Making the switch to reusable snack bags was a game-changer for my family, both for our wallet and for the planet. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a great reusable snack bag for kids, and I want to share that with you.
First up, let’s talk about material. This is probably the most important decision. You’ll find bags made from food-safe silicone, nylon with a PEVA lining, and polyester with a TPU lining. Silicone bags are fantastic because they’re sturdy, easy to clean, and often dishwasher-safe. The fabric options, like nylon or polyester, are usually lighter and more flexible, which can be easier for small hands to open and close. Just make sure the interior lining is free of lead and BPA. For me, a non-toxic material is non-negotiable.
Next, consider the closure. The two main types are zipper seals and press-and-seal (also called fold-over) tops. Zipper seals are great for containing messy or liquidy snacks like applesauce or yogurt, but they can be tricky for little kids to manage on their own. Press-and-seal tops are super simple for kids to open and close by themselves, but they might not be as secure for very runny foods. Think about what your child typically eats and their dexterity level.
Durability and ease of cleaning are huge factors in my book. Kids are tough on their stuff! Look for bags that are machine washable or, even better, dishwasher safe. This makes the cleanup process so much simpler and ensures the bags get truly clean. Check the manufacturer’s instructions, as some fabric bags are top-rack dishwasher safe while others are hand-wash only. I personally lean towards bags that can survive the dishwasher because it saves me precious time.
Finally, don’t forget the fun factor! Getting your kids excited about using their reusable bags makes the whole process easier. Let them pick out a pattern or color they love. Many brands offer bags with fun prints, from dinosaurs and unicorns to simple, solid colors. A bag they think is cool is a bag they’ll be happy to use and bring home. Finding the right set of reusable snack bags for kids can make your daily routine smoother and more sustainable. It’s a small change that adds up to a big difference.
FAQ
Are reusable snack bags safe for my child?
Yes, when you choose bags made from food-safe materials, they are absolutely safe. Look for brands that are BPA-free, lead-free, and phthalate-free. Common safe materials include food-grade silicone and fabrics with PEVA or TPU linings. Always check the product description to confirm the materials used. I always feel better when a company is transparent about what their products are made from.
How do I properly clean reusable snack bags?
Cleaning methods depend on the bag’s material. Most silicone bags are dishwasher safe, which is my preferred method. Fabric bags with a lining can often be turned inside out and washed on the top rack of the dishwasher or by hand with warm, soapy water. It’s crucial to let them air dry completely before storing them to prevent mildew. Always follow the specific care instructions from the manufacturer to make your bags last as long as possible.
Can I put messy or wet snacks in them?
You can, but the type of closure matters. Bags with a sturdy zipper seal are generally better at containing wet or messy snacks like cut-up fruit, yogurt, or applesauce. The press-and-seal fold-over tops are better for drier snacks like crackers, cereal, or pretzels. If you regularly pack messy foods, I’d recommend investing in a set with a reliable zipper to avoid any leaks in the lunchbox.
How long do reusable snack bags typically last?
With proper care, a good quality reusable snack bag can last for months or even years. I’ve had some of my silicone bags for over two years with no issues. Fabric bags might show wear and tear a bit sooner, especially if they are used and washed very frequently, but they should still last for many, many uses. Their lifespan is a huge part of what makes them a better choice than single-use plastic bags.
Are they truly better for the environment?
In my experience, yes, overwhelmingly so. While they require water and energy to produce and clean, their ability to be used hundreds of times drastically reduces the amount of single-use plastic waste your family generates. By replacing countless disposable bags, you are making a positive environmental choice. It’s one of the easiest switches a family can make to be more eco-friendly. Finding the best reusable snack bags for kids is a simple step toward a greener household.
Will my child be able to open and close them easily?
This is a key consideration. Press-and-seal fold-over tops are typically the easiest for young children to manage independently. Zipper seals can be more challenging for little fingers. Some brands offer zipper pulls or wider tracks to make it easier. If your child struggles with fine motor skills, I’d suggest starting with a fold-over style or practicing with the zipper at home before sending it to school.