Gentle Burping Techniques Every Parent Should Know
Feeding your baby is a sweet, bonding time, but it often comes with a tiny hiccup.. literally. Babies naturally swallow air while feeding, and if that air isn’t released, it can lead to fussiness, gas, or discomfort. That’s where burping comes in. Learning a few simple techniques can help your little one feel more comfortable, while giving you peace of mind.
Why Babies Need to Be Burped
Newborns and young infants have developing digestive systems, which means they’re more likely to trap air during feedings. Burping helps release that extra air so your baby can relax, feed more comfortably, and rest better afterward. Skipping burping isn’t harmful, but it may leave your baby gassy and unsettled.
When to Burp Your Baby
Every baby is different, but here are some helpful times to try burping:
During feeds:
Breastfeeding: Burp your baby when you switch breasts.
Bottle-feeding: Burp your baby every 2 to 3 ounces (60 to 90 mL) of milk.
After feeds: Always give a gentle burp before laying your baby down.
When baby seems fussy: If they squirm, pull away, or act uncomfortable mid-feed, it may be time to pause for a burp.
Burping Techniques to Try
There’s no single “best” method. What works can depend on your baby’s comfort (and yours).
Here are a few gentle positions:
1. Over the Shoulder
Hold your baby upright against your chest with their chin resting on your shoulder. Support their head and back, then gently pat or rub their back in circular motions.
2. Across the Lap
Lay your baby tummy-down across your lap, keeping their head slightly higher than their chest. Use one hand to support their head and the other to rub or pat their back.
3. Upright Sitting
Sit your baby on your lap, supporting their chest and head with one hand while leaning them slightly forward. With your free hand, softly pat or rub their back.
Tip: Keep a burp cloth nearby. These positions are effective, but sometimes messy.
What If Baby Doesn’t Burp?
Not every feeding will lead to a burp, and that’s perfectly okay. If your baby seems comfortable, it’s fine to move on. But if they’re fussy, try switching positions or giving it a little more time.
Gentle Burping at Night
Late-night feeds can feel extra exhausting. To avoid fully waking your baby, keep movements slow and the environment calm. Dim lights, quiet voices, and soft pats can help soothe them back to sleep more easily.
When to Ask for Guidance
If your baby seems unusually uncomfortable, spits up excessively, or cries often after feedings, it’s always a good idea to check in with your pediatrician. Sometimes reflux, allergies, or other conditions can play a role in frequent gas or discomfort.
How Harmony Baby Concierge Can Support You
At Harmony Baby Concierge, we know feeding and burping are tender parts of your baby’s care. Our newborn care specialists, night nannies, and postpartum doulas bring not only expertise but also a calm, reassuring presence—helping both you and your baby feel supported during these early weeks.
Final Thoughts
Burping may seem like a small step in your baby’s care, but it can make a big difference in their comfort. With time, you’ll discover which techniques work best for your little one. Remember, you’re doing an incredible job—every feed, every burp, every cuddle is part of the beautiful rhythm of parenthood. 🤎
Harmony Baby Concierge is a full service Newborn Care + Postpartum Support Agency based in Dallas, Austin and Houston, Texas.. We have a well-rounded team of Newborn Care Specialists, Night Nurses, Postpartum Doulas, Newborn Night Nannies and Baby Nurses. We provide lactation support, newborn care, night nursing, gentle sleep training and parent education to families of newborns. We serve all families with love, warmth and care. Serving: Dallas, Austin, Houston, Highland Park, University Park, Kessler Park, Lake Highlands, Lakewood, Plano, Frisco, Celina, Prosper, Fort Worth, Southlake, Westlake, Irving, Preston Hollow, Park Cities, Grand Prairie, Carrollton, Houston, Manvel, Galveston, West University, Austin, Barton Creek, Round Rock, Houston, Denver, New York City, Greenwich CT, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Englewood Colorado, Cherry Hills Village CO, and Surrounding Areas.