Mepal Campus Bento: Stainless Steel vs Plastic for Kids

Quick answer

For most kids, a Mepal Campus plastic bento is lighter, more affordable, and easier for small hands to open. Choose stainless steel if you prioritize durability and avoiding plastic contact with food, but expect a higher price and heavier weight.

When choosing a lunchbox for your child, the material matters more than you might think. Mepal offers both stainless steel and plastic options in its Campus range, each with distinct benefits. This guide compares them based on practical factors like weight, durability, and ease of use.

We'll look at specific Mepal Campus products to help you decide which material suits your child's age, lunch habits, and your family's priorities.

Material differences at a glance

Stainless steel lunchboxes are known for their durability and resistance to odors and stains. They don't absorb food smells and are often preferred by parents who want to avoid plastic in direct contact with food. However, they tend to be heavier and more expensive than plastic alternatives.

Plastic lunchboxes, like many Mepal Campus models, are lightweight, affordable, and often feature fun designs that appeal to kids. They are also less likely to dent if dropped. The trade-off is that plastic may retain odors over time and some parents prefer to minimize plastic use for environmental or health reasons.

Weight and portability for small kids

Younger children, especially in preschool or early elementary, have to carry their lunchbox to and from school. A heavy stainless steel box can be a burden. Plastic lunchboxes are significantly lighter, making them easier for little ones to manage independently.

If your child walks or bikes to school, weight becomes even more critical. A lighter plastic box reduces strain on their back and makes it more likely they'll carry it properly. For older kids who don't mind the extra weight, stainless steel's durability can be a plus.

Durability and maintenance

Stainless steel is virtually unbreakable and resists dents and cracks better than plastic. It also doesn't stain from foods like tomato sauce or berries. However, it can dent if dropped on a hard surface, and it's not microwave-safe. Plastic Mepal boxes are microwave-safe (check the base), but they can crack if dropped repeatedly or exposed to extreme temperatures.

Cleaning is easy for both: they are dishwasher-safe. Stainless steel may show water spots if not dried promptly, while plastic can fade or become cloudy over time with high-heat washing. Consider how much maintenance you're willing to do.

Design and fun factor

Kids are often drawn to colorful, themed lunchboxes. Mepal's plastic Campus range features popular characters like Little Dutch, Barbie, and PAW Patrol, making lunchtime exciting. These designs are printed on the exterior and are resistant to wear.

Stainless steel lunchboxes typically have a sleek, minimalist look, which some older kids may prefer. But if your child loves a specific character, a plastic box with that design might encourage them to eat their lunch. There's a trade-off between aesthetics and material preference.

Trade-offs to consider

• Weight vs. durability: Plastic is lighter and easier for kids to carry, but stainless steel is more resistant to cracks and long-term wear. Choose plastic for younger kids, stainless for older ones who can handle the weight.
• Price vs. longevity: Plastic Mepal boxes are more affordable upfront, but stainless steel may last longer if not lost or dented. If budget is tight, plastic is cost-effective; if you want a long-term investment, consider steel.
• Design appeal vs. material preference: Plastic offers character-themed designs that excite kids, while stainless steel has a neutral look that some parents prefer for health reasons. Let your child's interests guide design, but weigh your comfort with plastic contact.

Products we compared

• Boîte à déjeuner Campus Little Dutch - Animal Friends: Part of the Mepal Campus collection, known for its clever and functional design. Features a cheerful Animal Friends pattern from Little Dutch. This plastic lunchbox adds a playful touch that can make lunchtime more inviting for young children, especially those who love the Animal Friends theme.
• Campus fruit box 300 ml with fork – Barbie: Leakproof box that children open and close effortlessly, whether at school or out exploring. A separate fruit box with a fork is practical for keeping fruit fresh and encouraging healthy snacks. The Barbie design appeals to kids who enjoy themed items.
• Ellipse lunch pot XL 750 ml + 300 ml – Vivid mauve: Leakproof, microwave-safe (bottom container), and dishwasher-safe. Perfect for on the go. This larger container offers flexibility for bigger appetites or meals with separate compartments, and the microwave-safe feature allows for reheating leftovers.

Which should you choose?

Best for

• Parents seeking an affordable, lightweight lunchbox for young children who love colorful designs.
• Kids who need an easy-to-open container for school snacks and lunches.

Not for

• Parents who want to avoid plastic in food containers and prefer a more durable, long-lasting material.

Both Mepal Campus plastic and stainless steel bento boxes serve kids well, but they solve different problems. Plastic offers light weight, lower cost, and fun designs; stainless steel provides durability and peace of mind about plastic. Assess your child's age, lunch habits, and your priorities to make the right choice.