If your baby cries, squirms, or stiffens up the moment it’s time to put on clothes, you’re not alone. Many babies dislike the process of getting dressed—and it can leave mums feeling frustrated, rushed, or even guilty. But don’t worry. With a little patience and a few smart tricks, dressing time can become less stressful for both you and your little one.
In this post, we’ll explore why babies often resist getting dressed, and share practical tips that can help turn those tears into giggles (or at least calm cooperation).
Why Do Babies Dislike Getting Dressed?
Babies communicate discomfort through fussing or crying, and getting dressed can be overwhelming for them. Here are a few common reasons:
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Temperature changes: Babies don’t like the sudden shift from warm to cool air when clothes come off or go on.
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Restricted movement: Some clothes can feel tight or uncomfortable, especially for babies who love to wriggle.
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Overstimulation: The process of pulling clothes over their head or arms can feel like too much at once.
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New sensations: Tags, zippers, or stiff fabrics can irritate their sensitive skin.
Understanding these reasons helps mums approach dressing time with more empathy and calm.
Tips to Make Dressing Time Easier
Here are some simple ways to make the process smoother:
1. Choose Comfortable Clothing
Opt for soft, stretchy fabrics that move with your baby. Clothes like zipper rompers or onesies are often easier to put on than outfits with lots of snaps or buttons. Brands like Zoe Sage’s zipper rompers are designed with comfort in mind, making dressing quicker and gentler.
2. Warm the Room
Before changing or dressing your baby, make sure the room is warm enough so they don’t feel a sudden chill. A cosy space can reduce fussiness.
3. Distract and Entertain
Sing a favourite song, use a rattle, or talk to your baby in a soothing voice while dressing. Turning it into playtime can shift their focus away from the clothing.
4. Be Gentle but Quick
Try to move calmly and confidently. The quicker you get the clothes on (without rushing), the less time your baby spends feeling unsettled.
5. Dress from the Bottom Up
Some babies don’t like clothes being pulled over their heads. Look for rompers or onesies that zip or snap from the bottom so you can avoid too much head-over clothing.
6. Layer Smartly
Instead of bulky outfits, go for layers of light, breathable clothing. This makes dressing easier and keeps your baby comfortable across different temperatures.
7. Make It a Bonding Moment
Turn dressing time into an opportunity for connection. Smile, maintain eye contact, and gently explain what you’re doing. Babies may not understand the words, but your calm tone reassures them.
When to Seek Help
If your baby seems extremely distressed every single time, or if you notice signs of discomfort like rashes, irritation, or sensitivity to certain fabrics, it’s worth checking in with your doctor. Sometimes fussiness during dressing can be linked to skin sensitivities or other underlying issues.
It’s completely normal for babies to resist getting dressed. What feels simple to us can feel overwhelming for them. With patience, the right clothing choices, and a few distraction tricks, you can make the experience smoother and less stressful.
Remember: this stage won’t last forever. Soon enough, your little one will be running around and insisting on choosing their own outfits! In the meantime, soft and practical options like Zoe Sage’s baby zipper rompers can help make the process easier for both mum and bub.
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Zoe Sage came from a genuine desire to ease into the transition to motherhood and breastfeeding because - let’s be honest - motherhood is no joke. Owned and operated by a young mother of two, Zoe Sage is all about offering incredible products that actually reduce stress levels instead of increasing them.
From baby sleeping bags, silicone feeding sets and our signature Five In One Multi Use Mama Cover, we’ve got the essentials of motherhood covered alongside free shipping over $100, a thirty day returns policy, and of course, flexible payment options like ZipPay and Afterpay.
If you’re on the hunt for baby products that actually benefit you and your family, follow us on Instagram to stay updated on new arrivals, or get in touch with us today if you have a query about one of our items available at Zoe Sage.