How to burp a baby correctly: Different positions every new parent should know

For new parents, feeding a baby often comes with a long list of questions, from how much milk is enough to why a seemingly content baby suddenly starts crying after a feed. One simple step that can make a difference is burping. While it may look like a small part of the feeding routine, helping a baby release swallowed air can prevent discomfort and make them feel more settled after meals.

Babies are still developing their feeding skills, and they may swallow air while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. When that air gets trapped in their stomach, it can lead to fussiness, discomfort, crying or increased spit-up. Burping helps bring out some of that trapped air and can make feeding sessions more comfortable.

According to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), “winding” or burping is an important part of feeding because air bubbles trapped in a baby’s tummy can cause discomfort. The health organisation notes that some babies need help burping, while others may do so naturally. 

Why do babies need to burp?

Unlike older children and adults, newborns are still learning how to coordinate sucking, swallowing and breathing. During this process, small amounts of air can enter their stomach along with milk.

According to UNICEF, burping is a key part of a baby’s feeding routine because swallowed air can create gas and discomfort. Releasing this air may help reduce gassiness and prevent excessive spit-up.

Signs that a baby may need help releasing trapped air include:

• Fussiness after feeding
• Crying despite having finished a feed
• Arching their back
• Pulling their legs towards their tummy
• Clenching their fists

However, not every baby needs to burp after every feed. The NHS advises parents to watch their baby’s cues, some babies may need a burping break during a feed, while others may only need it afterwards.

Here are some effective methods to help your baby burp:

The over-the-shoulder method

One of the most common burping positions is holding the baby upright against the parent’s shoulder.

To try this method:

• Place the baby’s chin gently over your shoulder.
• Support the baby’s head and neck with one hand.
• Use the other hand to gently pat or rub their back.
• Keep a cloth nearby as some babies may bring up a small amount of milk while burping.

The NHS suggests that gentle rubbing or patting is usually enough, and parents do not need to spend a long time trying to get a burp. A couple of minutes may be sufficient for many babies.

Sitting the baby on your lap

Another effective position involves placing the baby upright on your lap.

Parents can:

• Sit the baby facing away from them.
• Support the baby’s chest and chin carefully.
• Lean the baby slightly forward.
• Gently rub or pat the baby’s back with the other hand.

The NHS recommends ensuring that the baby’s head and neck are supported and avoiding pressure around the throat area while using this position.

Lying the baby across your lap

For some babies, a tummy-down position across the parent’s lap may help.

The method involves:

• Placing the baby face-down across your lap.
• Supporting the baby’s head and keeping the airway clear.
• Gently rubbing or patting their back.

UNICEF also lists this as one of the commonly used burping techniques, while advising parents to keep a cloth ready in case the baby spits up.

How long should you try to burp a baby?

There is no fixed time that works for every baby. Some babies burp quickly, while others may not burp visibly even after feeding.

The NHS says parents can try for a few minutes and experiment with different positions to find what suits their baby best.

For bottle-fed babies, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that burping during feeds can be helpful, especially when babies swallow more air. It notes that parents may try burping after every 60–90 ml of milk for bottle-fed infants, while breastfed babies may need burping when switching sides depending on how much air they swallow.

What if the baby does not burp?

A baby not burping immediately is not always a cause for concern. If the baby appears comfortable, there may not be trapped air that needs to be released.

If a baby continues showing signs of discomfort, parents can try:

• Gentle tummy massage
• Moving the baby’s legs in a cycling motion
• Holding the baby upright for some time after feeding

Burping is not about forcing a baby to release air after every feed, it is about helping them stay comfortable. Finding the right position, supporting the baby’s head and neck, and paying attention to their signals can make feeding routines smoother for both babies and parents.

(Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Every baby is different, and feeding or burping needs may vary depending on their age, health and individual needs. Parents should consult a paediatrician or qualified healthcare professional if their baby shows persistent discomfort.)