Kids’ Cooler Bag Guide: Making the Perfect Choice

You know the struggle: keeping those cheese sticks, yoghurts, and ham sandwiches in your kid's lunch box chilled throughout the day. Without a trusty cooler bag, you might as well wave goodbye to food safety and hello to unhappy tummies. 

This kids' cooler bag guide will help you in your quest for the perfect cooler bag so you can forget about the risks of lukewarm lunches and have the peace of mind that comes with fresh, safe lunches. 

Why Your Kids Need Cooler Bags

1. Convenience: Kids’ cooler bags are portable for healthy meals on the go. They’re also easy to clean.
2. Food safety: They maintain a safe temperature for perishable foods, reducing the risk of harmful bacteria growth that can cause foodborne illnesses.
3. Freshness: Nobody likes a wilted salad or soggy sandwich! Cooler bags keep the foods you pack in the morning fresh and appetising until lunchtime.
4. Variety: You’re not limited to packing non-perishable items. You can safely pack a range of foods, from yoghurt and cheese to fresh fruit and salad, to give your kids more exciting lunch options.
5. Healthy eating: It’s easier to include fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious items in your child’s lunch to encourage healthy eating habits.

Key Features To Look For in Kids' Cooler Bags

Quality and Durability

Look for high-quality materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. 

Durable cooler bags that last longer are a more cost-effective choice in the long run. They're also more likely to maintain their insulation properties for food safety over time.

Insulation

Good insulation keeps food cold and fresh until lunchtime, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. 

The best kids’ cooler bags have thick, high-grade insulation and an internal pocket or space for an ice brick.

Size

The size of the cooler bag should match your child's appetite and storage needs. It should be spacious enough to fit lunch, snacks, and a drink but compact enough for easy carrying and storage in a backpack or locker.

Design

Kids are more likely to use and not lose a cooler bag they like. Choose one in their favourite colours with a design that appeals to their interests. 

Easy To Clean

Clean cooler bags equal hygiene and a longer-lasting bag. 

There's no denying that kiddos can be messy, so choose a cooler bag that's easy to clean. Look for bags with smooth, wipeable surfaces or those that are machine washable. 

Top-Rated Kids’ Cooler Bags

At Stuck On You, we’re on a mission to keep lunches cool, fresh, and safe with our high-quality kids’ cooler bags for school.

What are their outstanding practical features?

• The mini size measures 190mm long x 160mm wide x 70mm deep and fits a mini bento lunch box. 
• The large size measures 255mm long x 200mm wide x 95mm deep and fits a large bento lunch box.
• Insulation and a thermal lining.
• Zipped internal pocket for a slim ice block.
• Handy carry handle.
• Zip opening that's easy for little fingers to use.
• Easy to clean.

Now, onto their design. That's up to your kids, as our cooler bags are customisable! After adding your child's name to their cooler bag in any one of various fonts, they can choose the colour of their bag as well as a fun motif: animals, dinosaurs, rockets, fairies, rainbows, and more! 

A personalised cooler bag is less likely to go walkabout at school and can make lunchtime more exciting for your kids. It's a win-win!

Check out what other parents have to say about our amazing cooler bags here, and why our cooler bags have won a National Parenting Product Award here.

How To Clean and Maintain Your Kids’ Cooler Bags

Keeping your kids' cooler bags clean and well-maintained is important for hygiene and longevity. 

Here are some steps and tips:

1. Remove all containers and food leftovers daily to prevent mould growth and lingering odours.
2. Use a damp sponge or cloth with mild soap to wipe the interior and exterior of the bag. A mixture of water and baking soda can be effective for tougher stains.
3. Steer clear of bleach or harsh cleaning agents that can damage the material and affect the bag’s insulation properties.
4. Give the bag a thorough cleaning weekly. If it's machine washable, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Otherwise, soak it in warm, soapy water, gently scrub, and rinse.
5. After cleaning, leave the bag open to air dry completely to prevent mould and mildew growth.
6. Regularly inspect the bag for any tears or damages that can compromise the insulation's effectiveness.
7. Store the bag in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight when not in use.

FAQs About Kids’ Cooler Bags

How Long Do Things Last in a Cooler Bag?

How long foods can last in a cooler bag depends on the quality of the bag’s insulation, the initial temperature of the food, the outside temperature, whether ice packs are used, and how often the bag is opened. 

Generally, cooler bags can keep food cool for two to four hours. If you include an ice pack, the time can extend up to eight hours. Always aim to keep the internal temperature of the bag below 5°C for optimal food safety.

What Materials Are Used for Cooler Bags?

Cooler bags are made from a combination of materials that enhance their insulation and durability.

• Outer material: Heavy-duty fabrics like polyester, nylon, or canvas.
• Insulation layer: Thermal foil and foam materials like polyethylene, polystyrene, or closed-cell foam. 
• Inner lining: Water-resistant and food-safe materials like vinyl, aluminium, or PEVA (Polyethylene Vinyl Acetate). 
• Additional features: Waterproof or leak-proof linings, hard plastic for structural integrity, and thermal-resistant zippers.

Are Kids' Cooler Bags Washable?

Most are designed to be washable, but the washing method can vary depending on the material and design of the bag. 

Here are some general cleaning guidelines:

1. Always look for washing instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some may be machine washable, while others should only be hand washed.
2. If machine washing isn't recommended, wipe the bag's interior and exterior with a damp sponge or cloth, mild soap, and warm water.
3. If the bag is machine washable, use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.
4. Regardless of the washing method, ensure the bag is completely dry before using it to prevent mould and mildew growth.

Get the Perfect Cooler Bag for Your Child Today!

We hope this kids’ cooler bag guide has given you the low down on how to pick the best kids' cooler bag.

At Stuck On You, fun meets function in a spectacular way with our cooler bags for school. With the ability to personalise these bags and choose from a range of vibrant designs, they’re a game-changer in the lunchtime routine. No more lost lunch bags and boring lunchtimes; your kids will love their cooler bags that stand out with unique customisation! 

Plus, their top-notch insulation keeps meals fresh, safe, and tasty for your little one's big day. So browse our range and start designing your child's personalised cooler bag today!

Be sure to also check out our bento lunch boxes and drink bottles so all your kids' school lunch needs are covered.

If you have questions about our products, please don't hesitate to contact us by filling out this online form.