Keep in mind that many newborns don't like to be dressed and undressed, so try to buy clothes that are easy to put on and take off. Envelope-neck or jacket-like t-shirts are good choices during the early weeks. So are undershirts that snap at the sides and one-piece coveralls that snap at the crotch. Anything that fastens in front, rather than in back, will make the job easier. Avoid decorative ribbons and strings that might get wrapped around your baby's neck.

Lay your baby on a firm bed or changing table. If the outfit snaps in front, place your baby on top of it with the snaps open. Then put your hand up through the sleeve, grasp baby's hand, and gently pull the sleeve over her arm. Pull the bottom part of your baby's outfit over her feet and legs, then fasten the snaps down the chest. If a shirt or one-piece outfit has to be pulled over your baby's head, first stretch the neck of it open wide. Place the neck opening over the back of her head, then gently pull it forward over her face and down.

Eventually, you may prefer to dress your baby on your lap with her head against your chest.