A+ BEST ECO-FRIENDLY BACK TO SCHOOL GEAR
Looking for eco-friendly, back to school gear? After extensive research and our own testing, k.o. kidz found a few stand outs from these mom-owned and operated companies. All are absolutely committed to the environment and making products that are fun and functional – the perfect combination!
Lunch Bag and Backpack, Dabbawalla
These insulated bags and backpacks will make you smile with their cute designs, super comfortable handles and straps, quick access internal/external pockets, and easy pack/unpack. Made from an environmentally friendly, lightweight, neoprene-like material that cushions and insulates, both bags and backpacks are machine washable and stain resistant. This innovative material is also degradable, recyclable, durable, and 100% toxic-free (zero lead and BPA, PVC, phthalates free)! Note: We recommend hand washing to extend the life of the product.
Good Housekeeping Research Institute (GHRI) also tested the material and found that it “did not stain even after juice sat overnight.” Bags are rather 
large at 12”H x 11”W x 6” but easily hold a drink container or thermos. They also fared well for comfort and ease of use with our three year old testers. Available in 16, colorful designs including animal shapes, stars and stripes, and flowers, there is something for everyone and appeal to kids of all ages. Backpacks have the same dimensions in 12 designs, sized for kids ages 3-7. Available at http://www.dabbawallabags.com ($30/$40). Use the k.o. kidz exclusive discount code KOKIDZ20 for 20% off.
So, what’s a dabbawalla?? A person in India who deliveries hot, home cooked meals in lunch boxes to workers and returns the empty boxes to the worker’s residence in the afternoon. Just thought you should know…
Lunchbox, Bento-ware
The Bento-ware lunchbox is perfect for preventing the lunch smoosh mess that comes with overcrowded backpacks or lunchbags. Made in the USA from eco-friendly, 
recyclable, dishwasher safe plastic, this lunchbox is built to last! Extremely durable (many reviewer’s kids have been using the boxes for years) and designed to appeal to kids AND adults, these boxes allow parents to pack a nutritious lunch for the whole family.
Each lunchbox is sold with three water-tight lidded and two unlidded containers (the box acts as the ‘lid’ for unlidded containers). There is also a compartment to hold adult sized (under 6½”) utensils. Stainless steel fork and spoon sets can also be purchased separately on the bento-ware website. Our youngest tester (aged 3) did have trouble opening the box initially so this takes some practice for younger kids. However, we like that it has a secure, durable closure! Available at www.laptoplunches.com ($23.99). Receive 10% off if you use the k.o. kidz discount code KIDZ at checkout.
Snack and Sandwich Bags, SnackTAXI
Reusable snack and sandwich bags are a must for eco-friendly, back to school gear. There are many choices out there and we have definitely put these to the test!
SnackTAXI launched an organic cotton line in 2014. These have become our favorite as they are made in the USA, amazingly durable, dry quickly (without odor!), and resist stains. Kiddie and more sophisticated patterns also make these fun for all and some have special ‘gluten free‘ labeling too! Check them out at www.snacktaxi.com ($7.95/$10.50). If you find something you like, take advantage of a 15% discount by entering code taxigoods15).
Do you have other favorite eco-friendly, back to school gear to recommend? We’d love to hear about it and expand our list. Please leave a comment and share your favs!
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