A Few of My Favorite Things

What would conscientious living be without some dependable go to products that one can truly count on? I, for one, have been struggling to find products that would make packing lunches easier and more organized. Then there are things I have recently come across and found to work rather well in my kitchen. Here I have compiled a list of my go to favorites and one that has been on my wishlist!

1. planet box rover box

That item on my wish list! I love the aesthetics of everything Plant Box. Their lunch boxes range from snack size to more spacious boxes that can easily store “traditional 3 course meals”. As per the Planet Box website.

PROS:

• Built to last with high quality stainless steel
• 5 year warranty
• Dishwasher safe
• Safe for you and for the environment- non-toxic, non-leaching, BPA, phthalate and lead free

CONS:

• Slightly pricier than other lunch boxes out there  but considering that the stainless steel is built to last and has a warranty of five years i would say it is well worth the money.

More comments when I get my hands on a box of my own!

2. sistema cutlery to go

How neat is this? I just love the fact that these come in easy to carry, compact cases. Each box contains a fork, spoon, knife and chopsticks.

PROS:

• Easy to assemble and take apart
• BPA and Phthalate free
• Available in 4 different colors

CONS:

• None. Other than they can get thrown into the trash like most other disposable cutlery.

BOTTOM LINE:

Economical and so cute! A definite buy!

3. hydro flask food flask

If your kids are particular like mine about their food staying hot, you will love the Hydro Flask. My tween, has not complained once since we started using it.

PROS:

• Double walled vacuum insulation keeps food hot and palatable
• The 18/8 pro grade stainless steel used in the design is known for it’s durability and purity
• No flavor transfer.

CONS:

• Hefty price tag

BOTTOM LINE:

Although pricey, this flask is well worth the price and it can be customized in innumerable different color combinations to suit everyone.

4. kuhn rikon stay clean scrubber

I have been fascinated by this nifty little tool ever since I laid eyes on it at Sur La Table. Doubtful at its effectiveness I resisted buying it for some time but then caved and bought it a couple of weeks back.

PROS: 

• No smelly odors
• Prevents bacterial growth
• Dries fast
• Easy to clean
• Dishwasher safe

CONS:

• Not for baked on, tough stains
• Grip not as sturdy as a regular sponge
• Soap does not foam up as well as on a regular sponge

BOTTOM LINE:

Just the fact that this sponge can be washed and reused had me on board!

5. korken glass bottle 

I bought a bunch of these bottles and store everything from freshly squeezed juices to smoothies.

PROS:

• Clear glass makes it easy to see what is in the bottles
• Keeps your refrigerator looking organized and stream lined for very little money

CONS:

• Make sure to dry the bottles well. Humidity tends to facilitate growth of mold which is tough to clean in this design! ( voice of experience here!)

BOTTOM LINE:

These are great for storage and keep your fridge stream lined and organized. A must for any home cook!

6. manna water bottles

These stainless steel water bottles were on my son’s wish list ever since he saw these at a cousin’s place. I love the sleek, modern look and my son loves the fact that his water stays cold the whole school day!

PROS:

• BPA free
• Vacuum insulated to keep hot and cold liquids at the perfect temperature.
• No odor or after taste like most water bottles tend to develop with use.

CONS:

• There really is no drawback to this bottle that I can report other than the fact that I often fear dropping and denting it.

BOTTOM LINE:

This is one of the best purchases I have made and after years of searching for the perfect water bottle I can safely say that my search is OVER!

7. SISTEMA SANDWICH 3 PACK

Say bye bye to squishy, soggy sandwiches!

PROS:

•  BPA and Phthalate free
• Clean cut, slim design
• Easy to store in lunch boxes

CONS:

• Not air tight

BOTTOM LINE:

The pros far out weigh the cons for me and I am happy to report that life is looking a lot better with  more appetizing sandwiches come lunch time!

So which products are your favorites in the kitchen? Share in the comments below!