Which lunch box is best?
If you carry your lunch on a regular basis to work or school, you may have realized that brown paper bags are not very cost-effective. Over time, the continuous waste piles up. A lunch box is a more eco-friendly alternative to disposable bags. The best lunch boxes are durable containers that can withstand repeated use for many months. When selecting a lunch box, remember that some are sturdier than others, and some are easier to clean than others. Check out our tips below on how to pick the best one for you.
What to know before you buy a lunch box
Lunch box size
A good lunch box should be large enough to accommodate your typical lunch, whatever that might entail. For some, that could be a simple sandwich or leftover dinner. For others, it could include a main course, a side dish and several snacks. Think about how much food you need to pack, and focus on products that would be able to accommodate that amount of food.
Also, keep in mind the amount of storage space your lunch box will require. If you need to keep the lunch box refrigerated, either at home or at work, you’ll want one that isn’t too large for a refrigerator shelf.
Organization
A lot of lunch box options consist of a single compartment you which food is stored, but there are some compartmentalized options as well. For example, a lunch box may contain a “main” food area as well as a pocket for utensils and a mesh drink holder on the side. Some lunch boxes even have separate storage areas for cold and warm items.
Ease of cleaning
Lunch boxes need to be cleaned regularly to prevent mold and bacteria buildup. Look for one with an easy-wipe interior and an exterior that won’t show stains. Keep in mind, too, that a lunch box with multiple compartments may be more difficult to clean than a lunch box with a single compartment. After all, there is more surface area to be cleaned in a compartmentalized lunch box.
Durability
Chances are you’ll want your new lunch box to last for a while. You don’t want it wearing out — or even breaking — after a few uses. But be wary, because there are flimsy lunch boxes out there that may break down after a few heavy uses. To get the most for your money, look for something strong and durable.
Pay particular attention to the interior lining of the lunch box; you don’t want one that will crack or tear, as this would create more opportunities for bacteria to grow unprotected.
Extras
Some lunch boxes come with extras — perhaps an ice pack to help chill food or a few storage containers. Of course, you could also purchase these items separately; they’re not make-or-break features for most people. However, if you’re struggling to make your decision between two lunch boxes, the extra features included in each …read more
Source:: The Mercury News – Entertainment
