Back-to-school season is here, and I don’t know about you—but I’m always looking for ways to make the transition less chaotic and a whole lot more organized (and fun!). Whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading into middle school, the key to staying sane is having the right tools on hand.
This year, I’m leaning into some tried-and-true favorites that help me stay one step ahead—from durable name labels to creative stamps and smart gear for kids on the go. And the best part? Most of these are available on Amazon or through trusted brands I’ve loved for years.
Let’s dive in!
✏️ Must-Have #1: Mabel’s Labels – The OG in School Labeling
If your kid tends to misplace everything (mine sure does!), Mabel’s Labels is a must. This premium label brand has been around for over 20 years, and for good reason.
Their waterproof, dishwasher-safe, and laundry-safe labels are a back-to-school essential for labeling everything from water bottles and lunch boxes to jackets and backpacks.
Here are some of my favorite picks:
- 🧡 Ultimate Back-to-School Combo – A full set that covers all your labeling needs.
- 💛 Kindergarten Label Pack – Cute, colorful, and perfect for little learners.
- 💙 Middle School Label Pack – A more grown-up design that still keeps things coming home.
✅ Bonus: You can personalize them with your child’s name and favorite icon!
🎨 Must-Have #2: COLOP Stamps – Where Creativity Meets Organization
Now for something extra fun—COLOP Stamps! I discovered these while prepping our craft station, and they’ve become a favorite in our back-to-school setup.
🖤 Marky Stamp – Stamps on clothes, notebooks, folders, and more—and lasts up to 1,000 impressions!
🌈 Make Stamp Pads – Bright, fun ink colors to make homework (and labeling) way more exciting.
🪵 Blissful Prints Wooden Stamp Sets – Gorgeous wooden stamps that encourage creativity at home or in the classroom.
📦 Bonus: All COLOP products are available on Amazon, so you can grab them with your usual school haul.
🧼 Must-Have #3: Hygiene & Personal Care Essentials
Let’s be real—school germs are no joke. I always make sure my daughter heads out the door with a few hygiene must-haves:
- 🧴 Hand Sanitizer Bottles with Clips – Attach to backpacks for easy access
- 🧼 Lysol To Go Disinfectant Spray – Great for lunchboxes and desks
- 🧻 Boogie Wipes or Wet Ones – Gentle, hypoallergenic, and easy to stash
These items fit right into pencil cases or lunch bags—and you can label them too!
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🥪 Must-Have #4: Reusable Lunch Gear
Packing lunch daily gets repetitive—but the right gear can make it easier and more eco-friendly:
- 🍱 Bentgo Kids Lunch Boxes – Leak-proof and colorful
- 💧 Contigo or Thermos Water Bottles – Durable and perfect for labeling with Mabel’s Labels
- 🥜 Reusable Snack Bags (like Bumkins or Stasher) – Fun prints and no waste
These products are practical and kid-approved—and yes, I label every single item!
🎧 Must-Have #5: Focus & Homework Helpers
Back-to-school also means homework time is back. These tools help keep distractions low and productivity up:
- 🎧 Noise-Canceling Headphones for Kids – Ideal for reading or homework
- ⏱️ Digital Timers – Great for building focus with time blocks
- 😌 Fidget Tools or Sensory Rings – Especially helpful for younger kids
Perfect for setting up a little at-home learning station.
🎨 Must-Have #6: Creative Supplies for School & Beyond
We love encouraging creativity during the school year. These are staples in our art drawer:
- 🖍️ Crayola Inspiration Art Case – Everything in one easy-to-carry case
- ✏️ Twistables or Washable Markers – Great for mess-free art time
- 🧾 Dry Erase Pockets – Reusable, helpful, and eco-conscious
They’re especially great for younger kids learning letters, numbers, and colors!
🖥️ Must-Have #7: Tech Gear & Study Tools
For kids who are doing more digital learning or independent work, these are a great addition:
- 💻 Lap Desks or Foldable Workstations – Portable and comfy
- 💡 Blue Light Glasses for Kids – To reduce screen strain
- 📱 Tablet Cases You Can Label – Especially helpful for school-issued devices
Pair these with a label and never worry about “lost device drama” again.
🛒 Shop the Post: Back-to-School Essentials I Swear By
Make your back-to-school shopping easier with these affiliate-linked favorites:
- Mabel’s Labels Ultimate Combo
- COLOP Marky Stamp
- Bento Lunch Box
- Contigo Water Bottle
- Hand Sanitizer Clip Bottles
- Noise-Canceling Kids Headphones
- Blue Light Glasses for Kids
- Dry Erase Pockets
- Fidget Rings for Focus
📝 Start the Year Off Right
The back-to-school rush doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few smart, fun, and creative tools—like Mabel’s Labels, COLOP stamps, and some thoughtful essentials—you can send your kids off feeling prepared, confident, and maybe even a little excited for school. 😉
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best ways to stay organized during back-to-school season?
Labeling all personal items, prepping lunch gear ahead of time, and using creative tools like stamps and storage bins can keep the school year running smoothly.
What should I label for school?
Label lunch boxes, water bottles, jackets, backpacks, school supplies, and even electronics to help avoid lost items—especially for younger kids.
Are COLOP stamps safe for kids?
Yes! COLOP stamps are non-toxic, easy to use, and designed to be kid-friendly. They’re great for labeling and creative expression.
Are Mabel’s Labels worth it?
Absolutely—Mabel’s Labels are durable, waterproof, and customizable. They’re ideal for busy families who want to avoid replacing lost items all year.
💬 Let’s Chat!
Are you team “label everything” like me? Or do you wing it and pray things don’t get lost in the classroom black hole? 😂 Drop your must-haves in the comments below!
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My daughter is starting school this September and I’ll be labeling,everything you recommend is perfect 👌🏼