Smart Parenting Awards 2025: 9 Best Must-Haves for Dads

Dads often keep things simple, sometimes a little too simple. Many reach for one bar of soap to cover everything, even as they move through busy days and take on more at home. Fatherhood has evolved, and dads deserve products that make them feel cared for and supported, not just the bare minimum.

The Smart Parenting Awards 2025: Best for Dads highlights nine practical, dad-approved essentials that genuinely improve daily routines. Tested by the Smart Parenting Village community and reviewed by Smart Parenting editors, these picks show that fathers deserve thoughtful self-care too and that stepping beyond the usual “one soap for everything” can make everyday life feel better.

This all-in-one wash makes daily care feel effortless. It cleanses body and face in one go, powered by MicroMoisture technology to support hydration and prevent dryness. Each variant carries a clean, masculine scent like citrus-cedar or eucalyptus-mint that leaves skin feeling fresh. One bottle supports the entire routine and gives dads a simple way to care for themselves.

Rommel Cruz, a dad of two and project manager shares, “I got this one Christmas, and it’s been a great all-around product. It leaves my skin feeling squeaky clean without drying it out, my hair feels fresh, and walang amoy pawis all day.”

Safeguard stays a trusted choice for dads who need a soap that keeps up with daily life. Its germ-fighting formula cleanses well and helps skin feel fresh after work, errands, or parenting duties. It’s mild enough to use every day and tough on dirt and bacteria, which is why families keep it in their homes.

“Been using Safeguard since before I had a family. Never imagined using any other brand of soap,” says Ryan Cordova, a dad of one and banker.

This body spray is an instant upgrade for dads who want an effective way to stay fresh. It provides long-lasting odor protection with a bold, masculine scent, like sharp lime or aged oak, that keeps you confident through a busy day. The easy-spray applicator dries quickly, leaves no sticky residue, and minimizes marks on clothing, making it a fuss-free addition to any dad’s routine.

Aija Are’s husband shares, “I really like the scent, and it actually lasts a long time.” Rhea Gorospe’s husband adds, “It helps me feel more confident even after a sweaty day,” showing that a reliable deodorant can make a noticeable difference in everyday life.

This toothpaste helps dads take better oral care seriously. It has 1,500 ppm fluoride to help prevent cavities and 14 herbal extracts, including peppermint, sage, and eucalyptus, for fresh breath and healthy gums. Free from alcohol, it’s gentle enough for daily use while still delivering effective results.

For John Michael Concordia, executive host and a dad of one, Dentiste Plus White keeps his breath fresh and makes his teeth look brighter. “Ang gaan niya sa mouth, perfect for everyday use,” he says.

This pain‑relief spray is perfect for dads dealing with sore muscles or joints after a long day. With methyl salicylate and menthol, it provides fast, targeted relief, while the easy‑spray applicator reaches even hard‑to‑treat areas like the back or shoulders. It’s a simple way to stay comfortable and ready for whatever the day brings.

David Sison, a dad of two, shares what he likes most about Omega Advance Spray: “Easy to use, hindi na messy i-apply and really effective for quick relief.” He adds that it has made a real difference for him and his family: “No need to worry if may muscle pain, nakaka-relax talaga.”

Hanford Carib boxer shorts give dads soft, breathable comfort every day. Made from single-jersey cotton, they move easily with you while feeling gentle on the skin. The inside-garter design helps keep everything in place, and the button-front pouch adds practical support. A tagless, non-itch label ensures long-lasting comfort, making these boxers a reliable choice for busy weekdays and relaxed weekends alike.

“Got my first pair when I had to upgrade my wardrobe. The most comfortable underwear I’ve ever worn,” shares Ryan.

Sandra Ramos talks about how durable her husband’s Handford underwear has been: “Handford is good quality for its price. Matibay ’yung mga underwear nila. Two years na mahigit ’yung sa hubby ko hindi man lang ’nag-bacon’. Nauna pa mabutas dahil sa katagalan pero ang garter niya maganda pa rin.”

A Prime Video subscription lets dads relax with movies, TV shows, and Amazon Originals—no extra add-ons needed. The basic plan costs just ₱149 per month in the Philippines, giving access to a wide range of comedy, action, adventure, and drama. Stream on multiple devices, pause and resume anytime, and enjoy well-earned downtime after busy workdays and parenting duties.

Bojo Bonifacio, a dad of three and a pastor, likes that Prime Video lets him “watch a basketball game with the kids on a Saturday morning without commercials.”

This high-capacity 25,000 mAh power bank is built to keep laptops, tablets, and phones powered through long workdays and busy travel. It delivers up to 165 W fast charging and includes built-in USB-C cables plus a retractable cable, so you can charge multiple devices without digging for extras. With four ports and a smart display that shows real-time power status, it’s a dependable all-in-one charger for dads who need reliable energy on the go.

“My Anker powerbank is an everyday essential for me. It can charge both my phone and my laptop, so I’m able to work anywhere—at school, in a café while waiting for my kids, or even at home during power outages in habagat season. It’s very easy to use and doesn’t add too much bulk or weight to my bag. I especially love the type with a built-in plug because it doubles as an adapter or charger whenever there’s an available outlet, while still working as a reliable backup power source when there isn’t. Super useful and definitely worth it for a work-anywhere dad like me.” shares Rommel.

Produced by the Smart Parenting Team

Editor-in-Chief: Ronna Capili Bonifacio

Asst. Managing Editor/Co-Producer: Em Cruz

Videographer and video editor: Rolando Pingco Jr.

Art Director: Mariella Lao

Associate Publisher: Bettina Santos

Photographs by Ronan Capili
Models: Dani, Brennan and Ben Lim

Shot on location at The Brewman Cafe, Cubao Expo 3, Quezon City