Every September, it’s the same story. Schools send out their lists, kids have very clear opinions, and families try to balance all of that with their budget and conscience. At Älva, we’ve been supporting that back-to-school season for nearly 20 years — and every year we try to do it a little better: products that last, safe materials, designs that kids choose themselves, and prices that aren't a shock.
Every school has its preferences, every child their quirks, and every family their priorities. We try to have a bit of everything — so that back-to-school is a little less chaotic and a little more fun.
🎒 Backpacks — The ones that last for the whole cycle
This year there's big news: we are introducing Ocean & Ground, a cult Japanese brand that until now was almost impossible to find in Spain. We are the only store that has it. Their backpacks combine meticulous Japanese design with durability meant to last for years — not just seasons.
They join brands you already know: Hello Hossy, Ole, A Little Lovely Company — all with something in common: they are original, durable, and, above all, chosen by the kids. Because a backpack the child has chosen is a backpack they take care of.
🥡 Lunchboxes and food containers — No BPA, no phthalates, no drama
We have a very clear philosophy here: a lunchbox is a daily-use product that the child puts to their mouth. Materials matter. At Älva you’ll find options in stainless steel and BPA and phthalate-free plastic — both alternatives are safe; the difference lies in the use and the budget.
And speaking of budget: for us, the price of this product is fundamental. No lunchbox at Älva costs more than €20. The tiny ones for fruit start at €6.95.
We have them in all sizes: for snacks, for full meals with up to 3 compartments, airtight, easy for small hands to open, and with a multitude of designs. Because a pretty lunchbox also helps them eat it all. Or almost.
💧 Bottles — Ones that last, don't leak, and they can open on their own
The school bottle deserves more attention than we give it. A good 18/8 stainless steel bottle lasts for years, doesn't impart off-flavors, and maintains temperature. At Älva we have several brands and capacities so that every child can find their own:
Cool Bottles, A Little Lovely Company, Hello Hossy, Noui Noui, and Rex London — different sizes, different spouts, with or without a straw. Because there are kids who prefer a direct spout, others who only drink from a straw, and others who lose the cap in the first week. There is a solution for everyone.
Nearly 20 years supporting back-to-school
Since 2006, every September we open with our shelves full and our ears open. We listen to what you ask for, we look for what you can't find, and we do our best to have it at a reasonable price. If there is something you need and you don't see it in the store or on the website, write to us — we'll give it a try.
Happy September to everyone 🍎