Why Finnish Babies Sleep in Cardboard Boxes

Finland’s tradition of state-distributed baby boxes for expectant mothers dates back to the 1930s. These boxes contain helpful goods for neonatal health including a mattress, blanket, hat, mittens, boots, socks, bodysuits, towels, hairbrush, toothbrush, diaper cream, picture book, teething toy, and much more all packed into four cardboard walls. Despite opportunities to opt out of a box in favor of a cash grant, 95% of mothers take the box because of its well-rounded value.