How To Burp Your Baby: A Simple Guide To A Happier Tummy
Burping your baby might not be the first thing you think about when you're preparing for feedings, but it plays a crucial role in your little one's comfort and overall well-being. New parents often have questions about when, how, and why to burp their baby. With all the advice floating around, it can be confusing to figure out what works best for your little one. Don’t worry—we’re here to help!
At Burpease, we know how much parents love to see their babies happy and comfortable, and burping is one small but vital step in achieving that. In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about burping your baby, from simple techniques to surprising tips you might not know.
Why Does My Baby Need to Be Burped?
Babies have tiny, developing digestive systems that need a little help in the beginning. When they feed, whether breast or bottle, they often swallow air along with their milk. This air can cause discomfort, bloating, and sometimes even pain. Burping helps release this trapped air and makes your baby feel more comfortable.
Here’s a fun fact: A baby can swallow up to half an ounce of air during just a single feeding! That’s a lot of extra air for their tiny tummy to handle, which is why burping is so important.
Without burping, the trapped gas can lead to fussiness, crying, and that oh-so-wonderful midnight wake-up call. So, burping not only helps your baby feel better but also keeps your feeding routine flowing smoothly.
When to Burp Your Baby: Timing Is Everything
How often you burp your baby will depend on their age and how much air they’re swallowing during feeding. Here are some general guidelines:
For Newborns (0–3 months):- Babies under 3 months often need to be burped more frequently. Try burping your little one every 2–3 ounces of milk if you’re bottle-feeding, or every 5–10 minutes of breastfeeding. The more they drink, the more likely they’ll swallow air.
For Older Infants (3-6 months):- As your baby’s feeding technique improves, they may swallow less air, so you may not need to burp as often. A burp at the end of the feeding might be all they need.
However, trust your instincts! If your baby seems uncomfortable, gassy, or fussy, it's always worth trying to burp them, even if they haven’t swallowed a large amount of milk.
The Best Burping Positions:- Choose What Works for You and Your Baby
Every baby is different, and burping positions may need to be adjusted based on your baby's preferences. Here are some of the most popular positions to try:
Over-The-Shoulder Burp (The Classic)
This is the most common and reliable position:
Hold your baby against your chest with their chin resting on your shoulder.
Use one hand to support their bottom, and gently pat or rub their back with the other hand.
This position also lets you bond with your baby while helping them burp—perfect for those quiet moments together.
Bonus Tip: Gently sway your body side to side while patting for a soothing motion that may help them relax even more.
Sitting On Your Lap (Upright Burping)
For babies who like to be more upright:
Sit your baby on your lap, supporting their chest and head with one hand, while using the other hand to pat their back.
Make sure their head is slightly higher than their chest.
This position is great for keeping your baby alert but comfortable.
Bonus Tip: If your baby has been feeding for a while, this position can also help prevent them from spitting up after a meal.
Tummy Time On Your Lap (The Relaxing Position)
This one’s perfect for babies who need a little extra tummy time:
Lay your baby across your lap with their tummy down. Their head should be slightly raised above their chest.
Support their head and neck, and gently rub or pat their back.
Not only does this help with burping, but it also gives your baby some tummy time, which is important for strengthening neck muscles.
Bonus Tip: This position can help relieve gas, so it’s particularly helpful if your baby seems gassy or uncomfortable.
How Long Should Burping Take?
The amount of time it takes for a baby to burp can vary. Some babies burp right away, while others may need a little more time. On average, give it about 1 to 3 minutes of gentle patting or rubbing. If your baby doesn’t burp after that, it’s okay to move on, especially if they seem comfortable. If they seem fussy or gassy afterward, try burping again or changing positions.
Signs Your Baby Needs to Be Burped
Babies can’t exactly say, “Excuse me, I need to burp,” so you’ll need to watch for cues that they need help. Here are some common signs that your baby might need to burp:
Pulling Away From The Breast Or Bottle:- If your baby is feeding and suddenly pulls away, it could be a sign that they need to release some trapped air.
Fussiness or crying: If your baby becomes fussy after feeding, it might be time to burp.
Spitting up:- Some babies spit up more than others, but burping during and after feedings can reduce the likelihood of it.
Arching their back or squirming: These are common signs that your baby is uncomfortable and needs to burp.
What Happens if You Don’t Burp Your Baby?
If your baby doesn’t burp after a feed, don’t panic. Not every baby needs to burp after every feeding. Some babies swallow less air and are just fine without burping. However, if your baby is particularly fussy, gassy, or seems uncomfortable, it might mean they haven’t released all the air trapped in their tummy.
In the case of persistent discomfort, don’t hesitate to try burping again, or consult your pediatrician if you're concerned about colic or other digestive issues.
Fun Fact: Burping Isn’t Just for Babies!
Believe it or not, babies aren't the only ones who need to burp! Adults can also experience discomfort from swallowing air—ever felt gassy or bloated after a big meal? It's the same principle. Babies just happen to need a little extra help releasing that gas. And just like how we appreciate a good burp after a meal, your baby will feel much better after they've released all that trapped air.
Burping Myths: Busted!
Myth 1: "All babies need to be burped after every feed."
Not true! Some babies swallow less air or have more efficient digestive systems. If your baby doesn’t seem fussy or uncomfortable, they may not need to burp every time.
Myth 2: "Burping is a one-size-fits-all process."
Every baby is unique, so what works for one baby may not work for another. Experiment with different positions until you find the one your baby likes best!
Myth 3: "If my baby doesn’t burp, they’re in pain."
Not necessarily. If your baby isn’t showing signs of discomfort, they may not need to burp. Just keep an eye on their behavior after feeding—if they seem happy, no need to worry.
Burp With Love, Burp With Ease
At Burpease, we understand that feeding time is precious. Between preparing healthy, nourishing meals and making sure your baby’s tummy is happy, there’s a lot to keep track of! Burping is just one small but significant way to ensure that your baby stays comfortable and content, so you both can enjoy feeding time without the fuss.
If your little one is feeling gassy, try a few gentle burping techniques, and remember: patience is key. And while you're making sure your baby’s tummy is settled, let Burpease take care of their nutrition with our carefully crafted, wholesome baby foods.
