How to Reduce Plastic Use with Kids

Reducing plastic use with kids is easier than you might think — and involving children in the process teaches them lifelong habits. Here's how to reduce plastic use as a family, starting with the highest-impact swaps.

1. Give Kids Their Own Reusable Water Bottle

The single most impactful swap for kids. Let them choose their own bottle — kids are more likely to use something they picked themselves:

• Best for school-age kids: THERMOS FUNTAINER 12 oz — stainless steel, insulated, push-button straw lid, durable, fun designs. Keeps drinks cold all day at school.
• Best for teens: Owala FreeSip — available in many colors and sizes, dual sip/chug lid, insulated stainless steel.

2. Pack School Lunches in Reusable Containers

• Reusable zip bags — replace single-use zip-lock bags for sandwiches, snacks, and fruit. BPA-free, dishwasher safe, easy for kids to open and close.
• Silicone bags — for anything needing an airtight seal. Freezer safe, dishwasher safe.
• Reusable lunch boxes and bento boxes — eliminate all single-use packaging from packed lunches.

3. Involve Kids in Plastic-Free Shopping

• Give kids their own reusable produce bag to carry at the grocery store.
• Let them help choose loose produce instead of pre-packaged.
• Explain why you're making these choices — kids understand and respond to environmental reasons.

4. Replace Plastic Straws

Kids love straws. Replace plastic straws with stainless steel or silicone reusable straws — they come in fun colors and are dishwasher safe. Keep a set at home and pack one in the lunch box.

5. Make It Fun

• Let kids choose their own reusable bottle, bag, and lunch containers.
• Turn plastic-free swaps into a family challenge — track how many plastic items you avoid each week.
• Explain the impact in terms kids understand: "Every plastic bottle we don't use is one less piece of trash in the ocean."
• Praise kids when they remember to bring their reusable items.

6. Replace Plastic Toys Gradually

• Choose wooden, metal, or fabric toys over plastic when buying new.
• Buy second-hand toys — extends the life of existing plastic toys.
• Donate outgrown toys instead of throwing away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest plastic-free swap for kids?

A reusable water bottle — the THERMOS FUNTAINER is the top pick for school-age kids. Durable, insulated, easy straw lid, and fun designs kids love.

How do I get kids to use reusable items?

Let them choose their own — kids are far more likely to use something they picked themselves. Make it a positive experience rather than a rule. Praise them when they remember their reusable items.

Are reusable lunch bags safe for kids?

Yes — look for BPA-free materials. Silicone bags and stainless steel containers are the safest options for kids' food storage. Wash regularly with warm soapy water or in the dishwasher.

How do I reduce plastic at kids' birthday parties?

Use real plates, cups, and cutlery instead of disposable. Choose paper or cardboard decorations over plastic. Give experiences or consumable gifts instead of plastic toys. Use reusable bags for party favors.

At what age can kids start using a reusable water bottle?

From toddler age — there are bottles designed for every age. The THERMOS FUNTAINER is suitable from about age 3 up. Younger toddlers do well with soft-spout stainless steel sippy cups.