You waited a long time to put your baby in those cute little outfits, but you may find it's hard to slip them on and off. Here are some tips to make it easier.

Keep it simple.

Choose clothes that are comfy and easy to get on. Fabrics that stretch, shirts with snaps around the neck, and nightgowns that gather at the bottom are great for frequent changes. And, don't forget to use bibs to cut down on your laundry.

Make it fun.

As with changing the diaper, dress your baby on a flat, safe surface. Have everything laid out beforehand. Keep your little one happy by talking, singing, or playing peek-a-boo.

Stretch—don't shove.

Gather a shirt around the neck opening, stretching it first. Slip it first over the back of the head, then forward, pulling it over your baby's face. Reach into the sleeves and pull your baby's arms through. Take care not to bend back her fingers in the process.

Too hot? Too cold?

We tend to overdress babies, but a healthy newborn often may need the same or just one more covering than an adult. Don't put on too many layers. Let your baby's face tell you what to do. If she's cold, the color in her cheeks will fade and she may get fussy. Cover her with a light blanket or add a layer of clothing. If she's sweaty or her cheeks get too red, shed a layer.

Bundling baby

Step one: Put your blanket on a flat surface in a big diamond, folding down the top few inches. Place your baby at the top of the blanket and wrap the bottom corner up to his chest, tucking it behind baby's back.

Step two: Bring the left corner of the blanket across baby's chest and tuck it in behind his back. Many babies like their arms outside the blanket, but some prefer to have their arms tucked in.

Step three: Snugly wrap the right corner of the blanket in on the right side.