As a new mom, getting all the essential baby care products together is crucial for ensuring your baby’s well-being and making your new parenting journey smoother. In Kenya, there are excellent locally available products and a few international ones that have become favourites due to their quality, affordability, and accessibility. In this article, we’ll go over 11 baby care essentials every new mom needs, with a focus on trusted brands, why they are the best choices, and where you can find them.
1. Diapers and Diapering Baby Care Essentials
Diapers are the first thing that comes to mind when you think of baby care essentials. Whether you go for disposable diapers or cloth options, you need a product that is gentle on your baby’s sensitive skin, leak-proof, and easy to use.
Top Choice: Softcare Diapers
Softcare is one of the most widely used diaper brands in Kenya. It’s known for its affordability and the high-quality material that makes it gentle on your baby’s delicate skin.
Softcare diapers are excellent for overnight use due to their high absorbency, which keeps your baby dry for up to 12 hours. Also, many Kenyan mothers trust Softcare for its cost-effectiveness and reliable performance. It also comes in various sizes, from new-borns to toddlers.
Where to find it: Available in supermarkets like Naivas, Quickmart, and Carrefour, and also on Jumia and Kilimall.
If you are looking for an alternative, pampers is the brand you should go for. It is a globally trusted diaper brand known for its exceptional softness and fit. Pampers Premium Care is a bit more expensive than Softcare but offers an ultra-soft feel, breathability, and skin protection.
2. Baby Wipes
Baby wipes are a must-have for any diaper bag. They help in quick clean-ups, from dirty diapers to messy faces, and choosing a brand with a safe and gentle formulation is key.
Top Choice: Hanan Baby Wipes
Hanan is a brand known for its baby care products, and their wipes are specially formulated for sensitive skin, containing aloe Vera, which helps soothe irritation. Hanan wipes are alcohol-free and made without harmful chemicals. They are soft, thick, and don’t dry out easily, making them perfect for cleaning up after diaper changes or quick clean-ups on the go. They are also relatively affordable compared to some international brands.
Where to find it: Available at Naivas, Carrefour, and Jumia Kenya.
As an alternative, Johnson’s Baby Gentle All Over Wipes is in ideal choice. Johnson’s a trusted name in baby care worldwide. Their Gentle All Over Wipes are soft, hypoallergenic, and infused with mild cleansers that won’t irritate your baby’s skin. They’re ideal for babies with particularly sensitive skin.
3. Baby Bottles and Sterilizers
Whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding, combining it with formula, or just need bottles for expressed milk, having high-quality, BPA-free baby bottles is crucial. Sterilizing bottles is also necessary to keep them hygienic.
Top Choice: Pigeon Baby Bottles
Pigeon is a Japanese brand, globally recognized for making high-quality baby products. Their bottles are designed to support a baby’s natural sucking pattern and are made from BPA-free materials. Pigeon bottles are designed with a soft silicone nipple that mimics the natural feel of breastfeeding. This is particularly helpful if you plan to combine breastfeeding with bottle feeding or transitioning to bottle feeding. The bottles are easy to clean and come in different sizes to accommodate growing babies.
Where to find it: Available at BabyShop Kenya, Jumia, and Mother & Baby Kenya.
Avent is another popular brand that offers natural-feel baby bottles, specifically designed for newborns to easily latch onto. Their anti-colic valve helps reduce fussiness and discomfort.
4. Breastfeeding Baby Care Essential Accessories
For breastfeeding moms, having the right accessories can make a huge difference. Essentials like breast pumps, nursing pads, and nipple creams can ease the process.
Top Choice: Farlin Breast Pump
For moms who need to pump frequently, an electric breast pump might be more efficient. Philips Avent Electric Breast Pump offers customizable suction settings to mimic your baby’s sucking rhythm, making pumping easier and quicker.
Where to find it: Available at BabyShop Kenya, Jumia, and Mother & Baby.
5. Baby Clothes
Your baby’s comfort is paramount, and clothes made from soft, breathable fabrics are essential for Kenya’s warm climate. Ensure that you stock up on high-quality onesies, bodysuits, and comfortable outfits.
Top Choice: BabyShop Kenya Organic Cotton Onesies
Made from 100% organic cotton, these onesies are breathable and perfect for Kenya’s warm climate. They’re designed with baby’s comfort in mind and are easy to put on and take off.
Where to Find It: Available at Baby Shop Kenya stores across the country and on Jumia
As an alternative, Mothercare offers a more premium range of baby clothes, made from soft cotton blends that are durable and perfect for sensitive skin. Their clothes are well-stitched and last through many washes.
6. Swaddles and Blankets Baby Care Essentials
Swaddling helps babies feel secure and sleep better. Choose soft, breathable fabrics that are gentle on your baby’s delicate skin.
Top Choice: Aden & Anais Muslin Swaddles
These swaddles are incredibly soft, lightweight, and breathable, making them perfect for Kenya’s climate. They help your baby sleep peacefully by mimicking the warmth of the womb.
Where to Find It: Available online at Jumia Kenya.
7. Baby Carrier
A baby carrier is a convenient way to keep your baby close while having your hands free. It’s especially useful for Kenyan moms who are always on the go.
Top Choice: BabyBjörn Baby Carrier
Known for its ergonomic design, the BabyBjörn carrier provides great support for both mom and baby. It’s comfortable, easy to use, and grows with your baby, making it a great investment.
Where to Find It: Available in BabyShop Kenya and on Jumia.
8. Bathtub and Toiletries Baby Care Essentials
Bath time is an essential bonding time between mom and baby. A baby bathtub makes it easier and safer to bathe your new-born.
Top Choice: Kukuza Baby Bathtub
Made by a Kenyan brand, this affordable baby bathtub is sturdy and comfortable, designed with safety in mind. Pair it with organic baby toiletries for a gentle, nurturing bath experience.
Where to Find It: Available in local supermarkets like Naivas and Quickmart, and on Jumia Kenya.
9. Nasal Aspirator Baby Care Essentials
Babies often struggle with stuffy noses, especially during cold seasons or when allergies flare up. A nasal aspirator is a safe way to clear out mucus and make it easier for your baby to breathe.
Top Choice: NoseFrida Baby Nasal Aspirator
The NoseFrida Baby Nasal Aspirator is a highly popular nasal aspirator designed by paediatricians to be safe and effective for newborns and babies. The NoseFrida is easy to use and much more effective than traditional bulb syringes. It allows you to control the suction with your mouth, ensuring you clear your baby’s nasal passages without causing discomfort. It also comes with disposable filters to keep the process hygienic.
Where to find it: Available at Jumia Kenya and Peekaboo.
10. Baby Monitor
A baby monitor gives you peace of mind by allowing you to keep an eye (and ear) on your baby while they sleep or play in another room.
Top Choice: VTech Safe & Sound Baby Monitor
VTech’s Safe & Sound series is another excellent choice for baby monitors, offering good sound quality and two-way communication. These baby monitors are known for their reliability, high sound and video quality, and easy-to-use features. Their monitors come with a large display screen, long-range transmission, and even temperature monitoring to ensure your baby’s environment is safe.
Where to find it: Available at Jumia, BabyShop Kenya, and Mother & Baby Kenya.
11. Baby Stroller
A stroller is essential for when you need to take your baby on outdoor adventures. Whether you’re going for a walk or running errands, having a sturdy and comfortable stroller is important.
Top Choice: UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller
The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a premium stroller that offers excellent versatility and can grow with your family. It transitions from a single stroller to a double by adding an extra seat, making it perfect for parents who plan on having more than one child. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 features a sleek, durable design with an expandable frame, a large storage basket, and excellent suspension for a smooth ride even on rough terrains. The stroller also comes with a bassinet that’s safe for overnight sleep, a toddler seat, and the option to attach the UPPAbaby Mesa car seat, which makes traveling with a new-born easier. It’s a favorite among parents for its longevity and adaptability.
Conclusion
Finding the right baby essentials in Kenya doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right brands and products, you can ensure that your baby gets the best care, all while staying within your budget. From diapers to strollers, there are plenty of local and international options available to make motherhood a little easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential baby care essentials for new moms in Kenya?
Key essentials include diapers, baby wipes, baby clothes, baby carriers, baby monitors, and a first-aid kit. Locally available brands like Softcare, Hanan, and BabyShop Kenya offer trusted and reliable products.
Why is it important to use organic baby care essentials?
Organic products are free from harmful chemicals, making them a safer choice for your baby’s sensitive skin. Brands like Burt’s Bees Baby and Aden & Anais offer eco-friendly options.
Where can I find these baby care essentials in Kenya?
Most baby care essentials are available online on platforms like Jumia Kenya and Kilimall, as well as in supermarkets like Carrefour, Naivas, and BabyShop Kenya.
