As a new mom, I remember the feeling all too well, feeding my baby with care, thinking they had drift off into peaceful sleep... but instead, they had squirm, cry, and look up at me with teary eyes. My heart would ache. Was something wrong? Were they still hungry? Was I doing something wrong?
It took me a while to understand that sometimes, all a baby needs is to burp.
It sounds so small, a burp? Really?, but for our tiny babies with brand-new tummies, it can make the world of a difference.
If you are a new parent or caregiver wondering how to burp a newborn, you are not alone. Let me walk you through everything I have learned, from one mom to another, on how to burp a baby, why it matters, and what to do when nothing seems to work.
Why Do Babies Need to Be Burped?
Newborns do not just drink milk, they also swallow air. Every gulp, every cry, every shift in the feeding position can cause them to take in air, especially if they are nursing quickly or bottle-feeding.
But here is the thing, babies can not burp on their own, at least not until their bodies grow strong enough. That trapped gas in their tummy can cause bloating, fussiness, and even wake them from sleep. And as a mom, seeing your baby uncomfortable without knowing why is heartbreaking.
According to Stanford Children’s Health, babies are more likely to swallow air when:
• They cry during feeding
• They are lying flat
• The bottle nipple flows too fast or too slow
Helping your baby burp is more than a comfort measure, it can reduce gas, bloating, and spitting up. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes pausing during feedings to burp and keeping babies upright afterward to decrease reflux symptoms.
When Should You Burp a Baby?
Some babies simply do not burp every feeding, and that is okay. However, if your little one experiences constant gas, frequent spit-ups, or inconsolable crying, it may be time to speak with your pediatrician. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises burping babies at natural pauses during feeding and keeping them upright for 15–30 minutes afterward, as these position changes and regular burping can help manage reflux symptoms.
Seattle Children’s Hospital also recommends burping infants two or three times per feeding and holding them in a vertical position post-feed to support digestion and reduce spit-up.
This is one of those it “depends” parenting moments. But a few tips can help:
If You are Breastfeeding:
- Burp your baby when switching breasts
- Try again after the full session
If You are Bottle-Feeding:
- Burp every 2–3 ounces
- Always at the end of the feeding
Some babies need to burp often, others rarely. If your little one seems extra gassy or uncomfortable, do not hesitate to pause the feeding and gently burp. Over time, you will begin to read their cues, a little arch of the back, pulling away from the bottle, or sudden fussiness.
Baby Burping Positions That Work
Not sure how to burp a baby effectively?
These three simple techniques work for many families and may help your little one feel relief faster.
1. Over-the-Shoulder (The Classic Mama Hold)
- Hold baby upright against your shoulder
- Support them with one hand, gently pat or rub their back with the other
- Perfect for snuggles and burps, just keep a cloth ready for surprises!
2. Sitting on Your Lap
- Sit your baby upright on your lap, facing outward
- Use your hand to support their chest and cradle their chin
- Pat or rub the back with your free hand
3. Tummy Time Burp (Across the Lap)
- Lay baby face-down across your lap
- Support their head so it is higher than the chest
- Gently rub or pat their back
Every baby is different, what works one day might not work the next. That is okay. You are not doing anything wrong. You are just getting to know your baby.
What If My Baby Will Not Burp?
Oh, mama, I have been there. You have fed, tried all the burping positions, and still nothing. Take a breath.
Here is what helped me:
- Switch positions and try again
- Gently bounce or rock them upright
- Hold them upright for 10–15 minutes after feeding (gravity can help)
Some babies just do not burp every time. But if you notice constant gas, frequent spit-ups, or inconsolable crying, talk to your pediatrician. It could be reflux or a feeding sensitivity.
What a Mother Thinks While Burping Her Baby
Burping is not just a routine. It is one of those small moments that connect you to your child.
When I burp my baby, I am not just helping with gas, I am tuning in to their body. I am watching their eyes soften when they finally feel relief. I’m whispering to them that they are safe, they are seen, and I have got them.
We moms think about everything.
- “Is my baby comfortable?”
- “Did I feed them too fast?”
- “Is their tummy okay?”
- “Will they sleep peacefully tonight?”
Burping might be small, but it is part of the thousand invisible things we do out of love.
Burping Tips From One Mom to Another
From our Proactive Baby family to yours:
- Stay calm: Babies sense stress
- Do not skip burping: Even during late-night feedings
- Keep burp cloths nearby: They are lifesavers
- Try a feeding pillow: Keeps baby angled upright
- Take mental notes: Soon, you will learn your baby’s rhythm
Do All Babies Need to Be Burped?
Most do, especially in those early weeks and months. As babies grow and begin sitting up, they swallow less air and may even burp on their own.
But in the meantime, your gentle hand and patient love make all the difference.
Products That Make Burping Easier
Feeding and burping your baby can sometimes feel like a juggling act, but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to be so tricky. Whether you are dealing with colic or just trying to make feeding time more comfortable, there are a few essential products that can help.
Here are some must-have items to make burping easier and more comfortable for both you and your baby:
- Feeding Pillows: These pillows help position your baby for better feeding and reduce gas buildup.
- Burp Cloths: Soft, absorbent cloths catch messes and keep your baby’s skin dry and safe.
- Anti-Colic Bottles: Designed to slow down air intake, these bottles help reduce gas, bloating, and fussiness during feeding.
- For more baby essentials like these, check out our full range of products at ProactiveBaby.com. Everything is crafted with your baby’s comfort and your peace of mind in mind.
Final Thoughts
You do not need to be perfect, you just need to show up, and you are already doing that beautifully.
Burping your baby is one of the tiniest yet most loving things you can do. And on the days it feels hard or messy or confusing, just remember: your baby doesn’t need a perfect mom, they need you.
From one tired, hopeful, loving mom to another, you have got this.
Medical Disclaimer
This post is for general information only and not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby's feeding, digestion, or health.
