We use Sistema too. They wash and wear well and don't seem to taint.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user SpeedofaSloth) Our verdict We found the seal wasn’t 100% water-proof, so you’d want to keep drinks in a separate container, but the Yumbox is certainly the most ooze-proof box we tried. A few years ago, after a great career in corporate life, we decided to go out in the entrepreneurial world and try to improve work for our friends and colleagues.

LunchBots Large Cinco Stainless Steel Lunch Container: Even though it’s made of stainless steel, this bento box retained some odor from the tomato sauce. We also found the fixed compartments a bit restrictive and noticed that the partitions, while attached, had gaps in the corners, so if you have something runny in one compartment, it could leak into the others. Monbento has been making these incredibly attractive, French-designed, luxe bento boxes since 2009. Each classic bento box is streamlined with a minimal look and feel but exudes softness with delicately rounded edges, a comforting color palette, and a BPA-free plastic that's soft to the touch. While this box doesn't come with utensils, there is some space to store a coordinating Monbento cutlery set right under the lid. This bento box is dishwasher, microwave, and freezer-safe to make transporting and reheating your food a breeze, as well as cleanup when you're finished. Previous versions of this lunchbox included dividers, but they have been replaced with a small food cup. Monbento also offers a variety of food containers for both liquid and solid foods, all to match the elegant designs of the classic bento lunch box. Then to open the bento box, repeat the step; i.e. gently pull the silicon valve and the lid will come off without problems. Silicone: Silicone seals stop things leaking, so they turn up in all kinds of lunchboxes. Silicone isn’t as durable as polypropylene, so be wary of the dishwasher if there’s a lot of it in your lunchbox.Each layer's lid has a gasket around the edges, ensuring that the tiers are entirely leakproof. The lids also feature a vent to allow hot air to release during reheating in the microwave. We found that the tight-fitting lids were a little difficult to open, so this set would be best for teens and adults with better grip strength. While the removable dividers are adjustable, we found that they don't stay in place well enough to provide a completely airtight seal—which is completely fine for keeping dry foods separate, just something to be aware of. Thanks to the elastic strap and silicone seals, we didn't report any spills or leaks outside the compartments, even after using this bento box for multiple meals at home and in the office. As most parents of primary-aged kids will know, Smiggle is currently the brand to beat when it comes to school essentials - and this trendy, graphic print bento lunchbox is no exception. The graphic print is striking and appealing to primary-aged children and the box slips easily into most school bags. Your Umami Bento Lunch box has an innovative and simple system to keep the food airtight and water tight. We also wanted to share some tips on how to use your bento box so you can keep it for a long time.

Another vote for the Sistema ones. I take my toddler out to visit family once a week and can stuff it full of things to try and tempt the palate.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user FairfaxAikman) Microwave Test: We heated microwave-safe boxes in the microwave for 1 minute at the 700-watt setting. Tight-fitting lids aren't always best: Although very snug lids may help avoid spills, they can make it difficult to open. The same goes for sauce container lids. Some bento boxes are insulated, but many are not, although these can be transferred into an insulated lunch bag to help you keep your food warm. What material is best for bento boxes?Probably the best lunchbox in the world was dreamt up in 2011 by South London mum Sarah Kerr, who couldn’t find a box that didn’t leak baby food all over her hands and bags. So she made one herself. As you’d expect from a Sistema product, this box is robust, doesn’t leak and is 100 percent dishwasher-safe so is easy to clean too. Granted, it's not the prettiest bento box around, but if you’re looking for something reliable for the whole family and at a great price, the Sistema To Go Bento Box really can't be beaten. Bento is a single-portion meal designed to be taken to go. Of Japanese origin, today bento is popular all over Asia and, increasingly, the world. The bento box is designed to carry this meal, and is a popular storage option for lunches on the go. Suitable for adults and kids alike, this two-layer bento box comes with two removable and microwaveable compartments, plus a handy pot for fruit or yoghurt. Material: A chunky plastic bento box able to withstand bumps and scrapes may be a good investment to see children through school. But if you’re saying no to plastic, then you may wish to invest in a more eco-friendly alternative, such as stainless steel or bamboo.