Teacher-approved school supplies for under $25 that can be used year-round

My mom is a former teacher, and every year is like a long-term search for the best school supplies. Because of her hands-on experience with hundreds of products and brands, she knows how long children’s school supplies last from the beginning of the year to the last day. Additionally, the right supplies can help children succeed in the school years ahead without breaking the family’s budget.

With some help from my mom, I found 7 back-to-school supplies for under $25 that students can reliably use year-round. Save up to 64% on new water bottles, pencil cases, folders and more for your kids from brands like Yeti, Elmer’s and Crayola.

Staples 2 inches 3 Rings Better Binder

This three-ring binder held my mom’s daily lesson plans for years, and I have many of my own lesson plans at school. The non-stick plastic cover is very durable, and the rubber edges and spine make it even more durable. Binders contain inserts for noting course subjects or student names on the cover and spine.

Three 2-inch D-rings hold up to 540 sheets of paper, and two interior pockets hold loose homework pages. In addition to 10 color options, you can choose from 1″, 1.5″, 2″, 3″ or 4″ binders.

Seashell and turtle lunch box

Lunch boxes are single containers with multiple compartments, and parents (and teachers) love them. The Shell and Turtle Lunch Box features four separate sections, a reusable plastic sauce jar and four silicone waffle liners. Plastic forks and spoons are neatly tucked into a special spot on the lid of the container for safekeeping.

Since there are silicone gaskets and four latches around each compartment, leaks are almost impossible. My mom and I can vouch that this thick, durable plastic will last a full year and look like new when it’s done.

Yeti Rambler Jr. 12 oz Kids Bottle

Of all the water bottles sent to the kids in school, the Yeti Rambler Jr. was my mom’s favorite. True to Yeti’s reputation, it’s tough. The stainless steel won’t dent, the exterior coating (which comes in a rainbow of colors) won’t crack or peel, and the leak-proof straw lid is shatterproof. Plus, double-walled vacuum insulation keeps drinks hot or cold all day long.

GNL plastic folders with pocket, 5-pack

My mom knew all too well that paper folders would never make it through a school year unscathed. Spend a little more money and buy durable plastic products. These plastic school folders include interior pockets to store dozens of documents. My mom and I love how waterproof they are, which comes in handy if your child’s water bottle leaks in the backpack. Choose from three shades, bright, pastel and vintage, in packs of 5 or 10.

LLBean Lunch Box

Years before my mom became a teacher, she was already a big fan of LLBeans. My siblings and I use LL Bean lunch boxes at school because they are roomy, easy to clean, and virtually indestructible. The interior mesh pocket holds an ice pack, and the exterior mesh pocket holds small items such as snacks, cutlery, or notes.

If you have questions about lunch boxes, LLBean has a generous return policy. In the unlikely event of a defect, you can return it within one year, no questions asked.

unini pencil case

A pencil case is one of the most important school supplies because it teaches children organization skills—a soft skill my mom always taught her students. In addition to standard mesh zip pockets and name tags, two removable dividers create clear places for everything from pencils to glue sticks. When contact with sticky fingers and exposed markers is inevitable, the polyester exterior wipes clean. Children will also enjoy picking out their favorite color or pattern.

Crayola Essential Back to School Bundle

Ask any teacher and they’ll tell you they prefer Crayola’s children’s school supplies because they’re vibrant, long-lasting, and consistent. This school supply pack gives you everything your child needs for the school year: 24 crayons, 10 wide markers, 12 colored pencils, blunt-tipped scissors, and three Elmer’s glue sticks.

Other school supplies under $25

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