Stocking a school science lab can get expensive fast. Between beakers, goggles, and all the extras, it adds up—especially when classroom budgets are tight. This post rounds up some low-cost tools and materials that work well in a school setting. These are options that save money and still hold up to student use. Let’s take a look at the supplies that are worth grabbing (and the ones to skip).
Note: Some of the links are affiliate links, which means I may get a small commission if something is purchased—at no extra cost.
Get Started With Your School Science Lab
Building a school science lab can be expensive. And, when you enter a new classroom, you never know what you are going to get. Luckily, there are a few supplies are used over and over again. So, purchasing a few essentials is all you need to get started.
Going Digital with School Lab Supplies
It used to be common to teach students how use analog tools like a triple-beam-balance. But, these days, that kind of skill building is a bit outdated. Digital tools are quicker, easier to use, and far more accurate. Also, they free up time for students to focus on the outcome of the lab rather than getting hung up on using the tool.
And, if you are thinking about using these analog tools, my recommendation is to do so in the elementary classroom. In this setting, tools help reinforce concepts like place value in the setting where they are first being taught.
Digital Scales
A good digital scale is a must for any school science lab. I’ve spent over $200 on classroom scales in the past, and honestly, this one does everything those high-end models did. It weighs as little as 2 grams and up to 11 pounds (about 5000 grams), and you can switch between pounds, ounces, grams, fluid ounces, and milliliters. Since it runs on batteries, it’s easy to move between lab stations without needing an outlet.
Weighs up to 11 pounds (2 grams minimum, up to about 5000 grams); displays results in pounds, ounces, grams, fluid ounces, and ml
Digital Thermometers
This digital thermometer is fast, accurate, and easy to use—perfect for a school science lab. It gives quick temperature readings in either Celsius or Fahrenheit and works well for both classroom demos and student labs. The probe folds in for storage, so it holds up well when tossed in a drawer or supply bin.
Going in digital cuts out the guesswork and provides more accurate readings. This thermometer measures in both Celsuis and Farenheit.
Microscopes can get pricey fast. But this one costs just over $100 and works great as a classroom replacement. It’s sturdy, easy to focus, and gives clear images for both prepared and wet mount slides. If older microscopes are starting to break, this is a solid option that doesn’t wipe out your budget.
This microscope does everything the more expensive versions from science supply stores can do.
Premade microscope slides are a great investment for station work. While this set costs more than some of the other supplies listed, you only need one. Set up microscopes at different stations with a different slide at each. Students rotate through and record what they see.
One option is to group plant and animal slides. Then have students note similarities and differences. It’s a low-prep way to reinforce that all living things are made of cells. The slides are durable, labeled, and ready to use. So, there’s no need to spend time preparing your own.
Grab one set to create a station activity to show that all living things are made of cells.
Other Tools for the School Science Lab
Not everything in your lab needs to be digital. Some of the most used tools are also the simplest. These items are inexpensive, easy to replace, and perfect for hands-on activities. Stocking up on these basics means fewer delays during labs and smoother group work. They might not be flashy, but they get used every single day.
Measuring Tape
These flexible tape measures are a great alternative to bulky retractable ones. They fold up for easy storage and come in packs of 24—so it’s affordable to give each group their own. Even better, there’s no loud clacking or sword fighting during lab time. Just simple, quiet measuring that gets the job done.
These 24 packs make it affordable to have plenty of supplies for your whole classroom. Plus, they are so much easier to store.
Beakers – A Lab Essential
This set includes the most commonly used beaker sizes, making it perfect for everyday classroom labs. They’re affordable enough to grab a set for each lab station, which helps cut down on sharing and wait time. The glass holds up well to regular student use.
These are the most commonly used sizes and are affordable enough to buy a set for each of your lab stations.
Setup Beyond the School Science Lab
Getting your school science lab set up is just one part of kicking off the year strong. If you’re looking for more ideas to organize your space, plan your first units, or start the year with engaging routines, check out these posts. They’re packed with tips to make the back-to-school season a little easier—and a lot more effective.
More resources to help you get started
Here are some blog posts that will help you with setting up other aspects of your classroom.
- The Most Important Things to Consider When Setting Up Your Science Classroom
- 9 Science Classroom Supplies that Will Make Your Life Easier
- How to Create Classroom Expectations that Really Work
- Skip the Intro to Science Unit for a Better School Year
- The Best Ways to Create Independent Learners in Your Science Class
- Respect Agreements with iExplore Science
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