First-Time Guide: How to Burp a Baby
Why is burping your baby important?
Burping is a gentle but important part of your baby's feeding routine. As your little one feeds, they can swallow tiny pockets of air that may become trapped in their tummy, leading to discomfort. Taking a moment to burp them helps release this trapped air, easing any pressure and helping them feel more settled. It can also reduce the chances of spit-up, making feeds a little more comfortable for both of you.
Some signs your baby may have trapped wind include:
- Crying
- Arching their back
- Drawing legs into their tummy
- Clenching fists
When should you burp your baby?
There isn't a strict rule when it comes to burping your little one. Every baby is different, and their needs can vary from feed to feed. Some babies benefit from a gentle burp halfway through their feeding, while others are more comfortable being burped afterwards. And for some, bringing up wind comes naturally and easily, while others may need a little more time and patience.
It's completely normal if your baby doesn't always burp; every little one is different.
How do you burp a baby?
Here are three gentle positions you can try:
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Over your shoulder
Hold your baby upright, with their head resting gently on your shoulder. Use your other hand to softly pat their back.
Tip: Slightly cupping your hand can feel more soothing than a flat palm.
-
Sitting on your lap
Sit your baby on your lap, supporting their chin and chest with one hand while you gently rub or pat their back with the other.
Tip: Slow, gentle, repeated pats are often the most comforting.
-
Lying across your lap
Lay your baby face down across your lap and softly rub or pat their back.
Tip: Keep a cloth nearby, just in case of any little spit-ups.
How to help a baby with Reflux
What is Reflux?
Reflux is when a baby brings up milk or is sick during or shortly after feeding. It's very common and usually gets better on its own.
Symptoms of reflux in babies include:
- Bringing up milk or being sick during or shortly after feeding
- Coughing or hiccupping when feeding
- Being unsettled during feeding
- Swallowing or gulping after burping or feeding
- Crying and not settling
- Not gaining weight as they're not keeping enough food down
If your baby has reflux, a few small changes can sometimes help them feel more comfortable:
- Keeping your baby upright for a short time after feeds
- Feeding little and often
To find out more ways to help a baby with reflux, visit the NHS: Reflux in babies page.
If your baby seems very uncomfortable after most feeds or if reflux symptoms are frequent or worsening, please seek medical advice.
Burping products you'll use every day
Having a soft muslin cloth close by can make burping and feeding a little easier, helping you stay prepared for any little spills along the way.
