Feeding a newborn isn’t as simple as feeding a grown-up. Simply giving milk and putting the baby down to sleep isn’t how it works. Many babies swallow small amounts of air while feeding, and that trapped air can leave them uncomfortable, fussy, or prone to spitting up. This is where burping comes in.According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), there is no single “correct”method to help babies burp. Every baby responds differently to different burping positions. This is why it is important for parents to experiment and find out what works out best for their infant.
28 Jul 2026 | 16:27
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Why do babies need to burp
Babies don’t have a mature digestive system like adults and other children. During feeding, especially if they are gulping quickly, babies might swallow air along with milk. When air gets trapped, it can cause a bloated tummy, fussiness, difficulty settling to sleep, or the baby may even cry without an obvious reason. Burping helps release the swallowed or trapped air from the baby’s stomach.There are no fixed rules for helping a baby burp or determining if a baby must burp. Interestingly, neither every feeding nor every baby needs burping. While some babies naturally release swallowed air, others may need frequent burping breaks during a feed. Thus, instead of following strict rules- parents should look for cues. These signs may include:
- Squirming
- Arching back
- Pulling away from the bottle or breast
- Or, crying during feeding
Once parents notice these cues, they can intervene to help the baby burp. Here’s a burping position guide:
Position 1: Over the shoulder
This is like the classic burping positive and often known as the most effective.
Image: Canva
How to do it
- Hold your baby upright against your chest.
- Rest their chin gently on your shoulder.
- Support the baby’s head and neck with one hand.
- With your other hand, gently rub or pat the upper back.
- Plus, walk slowly while patting to help trapped air move forward easily.
Tip: Keeping a cloth over the shoulder will save your clothes as babies often spit up a little milk along with the burp. According to the NHS, the little spit is completely normal.
Position 2: Sitting on your lap
Many parents find this position effective for babies who refuse to burp over the shoulder.
AI-generated image for representation
How to do it
- Sit the baby upright on your lap, facing away from you.
- Place one hand around the baby’s chest.
- Support the chin and jaw- not the throat- with your fingers.
- Lean the baby slightly forward.
- Use your free hand to gently pat or rub the back.
Safety tip: Never hold your baby by the neck or apply pressure to the throat. Support from under the jaw and chest.
Position 3: Across your lap
This position uses gentle pressure from the baby’s own body weight.
AI-generated image for representation
How to do it
- Lay the baby face down across your lap.
- Ensure the baby’s head is slightly higher than the chest.
- Support the chin with one hand.
- Gently rub or pat the back with the other hand.
Safety tip: Avoid pressing on the baby’s abdomen, as too much pressure may cause vomiting.
For how long should you try?
The NHS advises that a couple of minutes is usually enough. If no burp comes after trying different positions and your baby appears calm and comfortable, it’s okay to continue the feed or let them rest.Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
