Burping your baby after feeding is important to help release the air swallowed during feeding, keeping your little one's tummy more comfortable and free from bloating. To keep them comfortable throughout the day, parents can also choose a thin and comfortable diaper like MAKUKU Slim Luxury Silky.
Caring for a baby is full of learning moments for parents, including helping your little one burp after feeding. Many moms and dads may wonder — does a baby really need to be burped, and what is the right way to do it?
At its core, burping a baby is a way to help release the air swallowed during feeding. If this air gets trapped in the stomach, your little one can feel uncomfortable, bloated, and even become fussy. Understanding how to burp a baby properly can help your little one feel more comfortable after every feeding session.
Why Does a Baby Need to Be Burped?
When feeding — whether through breastfeeding or a bottle — babies often swallow air along with their milk. This is completely normal, as their digestive systems are still developing. The swallowed air can build up in the stomach and cause discomfort.
By helping your little one burp, that trapped air can be released, giving their tummy much-needed relief. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics via HealthyChildren, babies are recommended to be burped during or after feeding, as air swallowed during meals can make babies feel uncomfortable and trigger spit-up.
Some reasons why babies need to be burped include:
Preventing Bloating — Air trapped in the stomach can make a baby's tummy feel full and bloated, causing your little one to appear restless or squirmy. Burping helps release that air so their tummy feels more comfortable.
Reducing the Risk of Spit-Up — Trapped air can push stomach contents back up into the esophagus, which is a common cause of spit-up after feeding. Burping reduces the pressure inside the stomach, lowering the risk of spit-up.
Helping Baby Feel More Comfortable — Babies whose tummies are full of air tend to be fussier and harder to settle. After burping, many babies become calmer and even sleep more soundly.
When Should a Baby Be Burped?
Not every baby needs the same amount of time to burp. However, there are a few moments that are generally the right time to help your little one burp.
During Feeding — If feeding takes a while, moms can pause midway through the session to burp the baby. This helps release any air already swallowed before the baby continues feeding.
After Finishing a Feeding — The most common time to burp a baby is right after feeding is done, as air is typically swallowed during the feeding process.
When Baby Looks Uncomfortable — If your little one is squirming, arching their back, or suddenly stops feeding, they may be feeling uncomfortable due to trapped air. In this case, try burping them first.
How to Burp a Baby Correctly
There are several positions moms can try to help baby burp. Choose whichever position feels most comfortable for both mom and baby.
Over-the-Shoulder Position — This is the most commonly used position. Hold the baby upright and rest their head on your shoulder, making sure one hand supports their head and neck. Then gently pat or rub the baby's back until they burp.
Sitting on the Lap Position — In this position, the baby sits on mom's lap with their body slightly leaning forward. One hand supports the baby's chest and head, while the other gently pats their back. This position helps keep the baby stable while making it easier for air to escape.
Tummy Down on the Lap Position — Lay the baby face-down across your thighs with their head slightly higher than their chest. Make sure the baby's head is well supported. Then gently pat their back until they burp.
Safe Tips When Burping a Baby
To ensure the burping process is safe and comfortable, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Pat the Back Gently — A baby's back is still very sensitive. Always pat gently and softly, avoiding any forceful movements.
Always Support the Head and Neck — A baby's neck is not yet strong enough to support their own head, especially in newborns. Always make sure to support their head and neck when holding or burping them.
Use a Cloth on Your Shoulder — Babies sometimes bring up a little milk when burping. Place a small cloth on your shoulder or lap to protect your clothing from spit-up.
Be Patient If Baby Hasn't Burped Yet — Not all babies burp right away after a few seconds. If after a few minutes your little one hasn't burped but seems comfortable, there is no need to worry.
Burping a baby is a simple step that helps release air swallowed during feeding, so your little one feels more comfortable. Beyond that, moms should also pay attention to baby's comfort throughout the day — for example, by choosing a diaper that is soft and less likely to cause irritation.
MAKUKU Slim Luxury Silky features zero feel that makes baby as comfortable as wearing nothing at all, thanks to SAP Thin Core Technology at only 1.6 mm thin. Made from natural silk fibers that are gentle on the skin, MAKUKU Slim Luxury Silky protects baby's skin and prevents rash.
FAQ
Do all babies need to be burped after feeding?
Not necessarily. Some babies don't swallow much air during feeding and may not always need to be burped.How long does it take for a baby to burp?
Babies usually burp within about 1–5 minutes after being gently patted on the back.Do breastfed babies still need to be burped?
Yes. Although breastfed babies tend to swallow less air than bottle-fed babies, they may still need help burping.Is it normal if a baby doesn't burp?
As long as the baby looks comfortable and isn't fussy, not burping is not something to worry about.Can a baby fall asleep before burping?
This happens quite often. If the baby falls asleep peacefully after feeding, there is no need to wake them just to burp.Is MAKUKU diaper safe for sensitive baby skin?
Yes. MAKUKU diapers are designed with soft materials and high absorbency to help keep baby's skin dry and comfortable.Where can moms buy MAKUKU diapers?
MAKUKU diapers are available on online marketplaces, baby supply stores, and various supermarkets across Indonesia.
References
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/feeding-nutrition/Pages/baby-burping-hiccups-and-spit-up.aspx
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/burping.html
