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One of the many small but significant parts of caring for a newborn is burping. Those tiny baby belches aren’t just adorable—they serve an important purpose. Burping your baby helps release trapped air swallowed during feeding, making them feel more comfortable and preventing issues like gas, spit-up, and fussiness. It also creates more room in your baby’s tummy, which can allow them to feed longer and more peacefully.
In the early weeks and months of parenthood, burping may seem like a minor task, but understanding why, when, and how to do it can make a big difference in your baby’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Why Do Babies Need to Be Burped?
When babies feed—whether on the breast or bottle—they tend to swallow air. This air can get trapped in the stomach and cause discomfort. Burping helps release this air. Without proper burping, your baby might feel full before they’ve had enough milk, leading to frequent, shorter feedings and sometimes more fussiness.
Additionally, trapped gas can lead to symptoms such as:
Crying and irritability
Arching of the back during or after feeding
Pulling up of legs
Spit-up or even vomiting
Burping helps relieve these symptoms and can even reduce the risk of gastroesophageal reflux in sensitive babies.
When Should You Burp Your Baby?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Every baby is different, and you’ll quickly learn your little one’s rhythm. Some general guidelines include:
If bottle-feeding: Try to burp your baby after every 2 to 3 ounces or when they seem to be slowing down.
If breastfeeding: Consider burping when switching breasts or if your baby pauses mid-feed.
If your baby is uncomfortable: If your baby squirms, fusses, or seems distressed during feeding, it might be time for a quick burp break.
You don’t always have to burp a baby after every feeding. Some babies don’t swallow much air and may burp very little, or not at all. As long as your baby is gaining weight and seems content, occasional missed burping sessions are usually fine.
How to Burp a Newborn: 3 Easy Techniques
There are several safe and effective ways to burp your baby. You can try the following positions to see which one works best for you and your baby:
1. Burping Over the Shoulder
This is a classic and often the easiest method:
Place a burp cloth over your shoulder and back.
Hold your baby upright, with their chin resting on your shoulder.
Support their bottom with one hand while using the other to gently pat or rub their back.
If your baby has good head control, position them slightly higher so that your shoulder applies gentle pressure to their tummy.
2. Sitting on Your Lap
This position is ideal for babies who spit up frequently or are prone to reflux:
Place a cloth over your lap and around your baby’s neck.
Sit your baby facing away from you, leaning slightly forward.
Use one hand to support their chest and jaw (avoid putting pressure on the throat).
Pat or gently rub their back with the other hand.
3. Lying Face-Down on Your Lap
This method works well for babies who don’t burp easily:
Lay your baby tummy-down across your legs, perpendicular to your body.
Support their chin and jaw, making sure their head is above their body level.
Pat or rub their back gently.
Tips for All Positions:
Keep your baby’s back straight.
Use firm but gentle pats or circular rubs.
If your baby doesn’t burp after a few minutes, try a different position.
How Long Should You Burp a Baby?
Most babies will burp within a few minutes. If your baby seems comfortable and relaxed, you can stop. However, some babies take longer and may need more encouragement.
If your baby hasn’t burped after several minutes, or still seems fussy, you can:
Try a different position.
Lay your baby on their back, gently massage their belly or do leg-cycling motions.
Then lift them again and attempt to burp.
Some babies simply don’t burp every time. As long as they’re feeding well, growing, and not overly gassy or irritable, it’s okay.
When Can You Stop Burping Your Baby?
As babies grow, they become more efficient feeders and their digestive systems mature. Around 4 to 6 months, especially once they start solids, most babies don’t need to be burped as often. However, if your baby is still gassy or prone to reflux, continue burping as long as needed.
There’s no fixed age to stop—follow your baby’s cues. If they seem fine without burping and don’t show signs of discomfort, you can slowly phase it out.
Do Breastfed Babies Need to Be Burped?
Breastfed babies usually swallow less air than bottle-fed babies. However, they might still need to be burped, especially if:
They nurse quickly or eagerly.
You have a fast letdown.
They’re upset when latching.
Even exclusively breastfed babies can benefit from occasional burping—especially in the early weeks.
What Causes Gas in Babies?
Besides swallowing air, gas in babies can also be caused by:
Ingredients in formula
Certain foods in a breastfeeding mother’s diet, such as:
Dairy products
Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower)
Beans and legumes
Soda and carbonated drinks
Chocolate
If you suspect diet-related gas, try keeping a food diary and consult your pediatrician before making changes.
Additional Tips to Relieve Gas
If your baby remains gassy or uncomfortable, try these techniques:
Tummy time: Laying your baby on their tummy while awake can help expel gas.
Leg bicycling: Move their legs in a gentle pedaling motion to help with digestion.
Warm bath or tummy massage: Both can be soothing and help relieve bloating.
If bottle-feeding, opt for bottles and nipples that minimize air intake. Let the formula settle after shaking before feeding. If breastfeeding, hand-express a little milk if you have a fast letdown to prevent your baby from gulping air.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I burp a sleeping baby?
Yes. Use gentler movements while keeping them upright. Burping might even help them feed longer if they weren’t finished.
What if my baby doesn’t burp?
That’s okay! Some babies don’t burp after every feed. If they’re content and show no signs of discomfort, it’s not a problem.
Burping your newborn may feel like a small part of your daily routine, but it plays a big role in their comfort and digestion. Over time, you’ll learn your baby’s unique needs and preferences. Whether you’re burping after every ounce or letting them sleep through the night, what matters most is that your baby is happy, healthy, and well-fed.
Remember, each baby is different. Trust your intuition, follow your baby’s cues, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.