How to Burp a Baby – 5 Gentle Techniques That Work

How to burp a baby is a common question for new parents, especially during the first few months. Trapped air can cause discomfort, fussiness, and even spit-up in newborns. Burping helps release that gas, making feeding and sleeping easier. This guide covers five gentle baby burping techniques to help you burp your baby safely and effectively, no matter the time or place.

Why Do Babies Need to Be Burped?

During feeding, babies often swallow small amounts of air—especially when bottle-fed. This trapped air can lead to bloating, discomfort, and crankiness. Not all babies need to be burped after every feed, but many do. Learning how to burp a baby properly ensures less gas buildup and happier feeding times.

1. Over-the-Shoulder Burping

This is one of the most classic positions for burping a baby:

Hold your baby upright against your chest with their chin resting on your shoulder.
Support the baby’s bottom with one hand and gently pat or rub their back with the other.
Use a burp cloth to protect your clothes in case of spit-up.

This position uses gravity and gentle pressure to help release trapped air naturally.

2. Sitting on Your Lap

This technique works well for babies who can support their heads slightly:

Sit your baby on your lap facing sideways.
Use one hand to support their chest and chin (not the throat).
With the other hand, gently pat or rub their back.

This upright position is helpful for babies who dislike lying down after feeding.

3. Lying Across the Lap

This method is ideal for sleepy babies:

Lay your baby face-down across your lap with their head turned to the side.
Support them gently with one hand and pat their back with the other.
Keep a cloth underneath for any dribbles.

This technique provides light pressure on the tummy and can calm fussy babies.

4. Walking Burp

If your baby is restless, try a walking burp:

Hold your baby upright against your chest, like the shoulder burp.
Walk slowly around the room, gently patting their back.
The movement can relax both you and the baby, making burping easier.

5. Bouncing or Swaying

Some parents find gentle motion helps:

Sit on an exercise ball or rocking chair while holding your baby upright.
Gently bounce or rock back and forth as you pat their back.

Many babies enjoy the rhythm, and it can be part of a calming routine after feeds.

When and How Often to Burp

Try burping your newborn after feeding—halfway through and again at the end. If you’re breastfeeding, do so between switching breasts. Some babies burp quickly, others take more time. Be patient. As your baby grows, they’ll swallow less air and may not need burping as often.

Tips for Success

Keep your movements gentle and never force a burp. If your baby doesn’t burp after a few minutes but seems content, that’s okay. If they appear uncomfortable, try a different position. Remember, every baby is unique. Consistency and observation will help you master how to burp a baby efficiently.

Is It Normal If a Baby Doesn’t Burp?

Yes, some babies may not burp after every feed, and that can be completely normal. If your baby seems relaxed, sleeps well, and shows no signs of gas discomfort, they might not need help burping. Learning how to burp a baby includes understanding their individual needs and patterns.

Final Thoughts

Mastering how to burp a baby takes time and practice. With patience and gentle handling, you’ll find the best method that suits your baby’s temperament. Whether you’re using over-the-shoulder or lap techniques, the goal is always your baby’s comfort and health.

More Baby Comfort Advice

For more newborn tips, visit our Baby Care section. For expert medical guidance, check NHS newborn care resources.