Kela’s 2025 maternity package in Helsinki on 21 May 2025. The 2025 package includes 38 items. Distribution will begin once the 2024 maternity packages have been fully distributed. Photo: Antti Aimo-Koivisto / Lehtikuva
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Finland’s Social Insurance Institution, Kela, has revealed the contents of the 2025 Maternity Package, marking changes to the long-standing baby box tradition. This year’s version contains fewer items than in previous years and, for the first time in decades, omits condoms and lubricant.
Kela said the removals were due to a lack of supplier bids. “Kela did request bids for both condoms and lubricant, but none were submitted for either,” said Anniina Kuokka, the institution’s product designer.
The 2025 package contains 39 items. While that is fewer than in previous years, Kela said the focus has shifted toward higher-quality and more adaptable items. For example, the smallest bodysuits now have an adjustable crotch to allow extended use.
The overall procurement cost of the package remains at €170, the same level since 2018. With inflation reducing purchasing power, Kela has sought to maintain quality despite a reduced item count. The institution confirmed that competitive bidding rules mean Finnish-made products are not given preference.
Recipients of the maternity grant can choose either the package or a cash benefit. In 2023, 62 percent opted for the physical package. Among first-time mothers, the figure was 82 percent.
The 2025 edition includes familiar items such as a baby blanket, overalls, a bib, a baby book, and various pieces of infant clothing. The pattern on the new box was designed by Heli Hyppönen and features a light-toned design with rabbit illustrations.
Kela said future updates will continue to reflect customer feedback, with the goal of addressing practical family needs. “We are listening closely to parents and adjusting where possible,” said Kuokka.
Although changes are being made to the contents, Kela has decided not to alter the name of the box. In 2018, a public survey with 30,000 responses explored alternatives to the term “Maternity Package,” suggesting options such as “Baby Package” and “Family Package.” However, the institution concluded that the current name would remain in use.
Finland has distributed the baby box since 1938. Initially reserved for low-income families, it became universally available in 1949. The box is credited with contributing to Finland’s low infant mortality rates and has become a symbol of the country’s early childhood policies.
Internationally, the concept has drawn attention in several countries. According to the BBC, versions of the Finnish baby box are now used in parts of Africa and Asia.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
