Washing too often can lead to dry skin. Water should be warm, never hot. After bathing, oils and powders are not necessary. The umbilical cord should be cleaned every 4-6 hours with rubbing alcohol and cotton. Infants need sleep.
Babies sleep many hours throughout the day, and sleep patterns differ from one baby to the next.
During the first few weeks, babies should sleep in the parents' room. Babies should be placed on their backs. Infants need stimulation. Appropriate stimulation includes talking to, singing to, and holding the baby. Babies cry when they are hungry, sick, angry, in pain, or have a wet diaper.