New babies are irresistible and everyone will likely want to get an up-close and personal look at your new little bundle. Unfortunately, another thing that is irresistible (to your baby, at least) are all the illnesses that come from nearby coughs, sneezes and unclean hands. So, keep that in mind before you head to the mall or the local swimming pool.

Aside from that, if you're heading out and about, be sure to follow these guidelines for dressing your baby appropriately:

Dress for the Weather

Dress your baby in clothes appropriate for the weather -- don't dress him too hot or too cold. Use your own clothing as a guide. If you're wearing a coat, your baby should, too. Ditto gloves and socks.

Protect Your Baby from the Sun

Put your baby in a hat and other gear that will provide sun protection. It's best not to use sunscreen on young babies. If you absolutely must, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends only using on small areas like the face or backs of hands. The best sun protection for small babies is shade and clothing. If you do use sunscreen, make sure to test a small area of your baby's skin for an allergic reaction.

Watch out for Wind

If it's windy, protect your baby's hands and face which can become easily chapped and painful.

Create an outside bag

An outside bag is different from a typical diaper bag. Make sure you have all the traditional diaper bag items but pack them in a backpack, not an over the shoulder bag and ALSO sunscreen, a thin but large blanket or sheet (for spreading on the ground), baby safe bug spray, and plenty of water.

Take a carrier or stroller

In my opinion babies should be allowed to crawl or walk around outside at the park but in most cases your baby will tire out quickly. Take a baby sling, baby carrier, or a lightweight stroller along so when your baby tires out he’ll have somewhere to rest.

Pack along fun toys

Take basic baby toys for a young baby and a shovel and pail for older babies. Your little one can scoop sand, gravel, rocks, bark chips, and more into his pail or simply collect stuff. Most little ones LOVE to put pine cones and leaves into a pail. Why the toys? Babies should get outside into the fresh air, but some awesome distracting toys means your baby will be less inclined to eat grass, flowers and bugs (gross!) and more inclined to play.

Don't stay in the house and go stir crazy, especially if you've got older children. Take your baby out for a walk or to the park, get some fresh air and enjoy yourselves.