Winding Techniques

Some babies need to burp a lot, while others don’t, so here are a few winding techniques that will help you and your baby.

Breastfed babies don’t need as much burping as bottle-fed babies because they tend to swallow less air when feeding. But every baby is different, so follow your baby’s indications and their body movements for guidance on when to burp. If you are bottle-feeding, you may find that different types of bottles help your baby swallow less air and reduce the need for burping.

When to burp your baby

If your baby seems uncomfortable while feeding, is fussing, or pulls away and starts crying, give burping a try. I would always recommend parents let their baby take a break halfway through a bottle or breastfeed. By 4 to 6 months old, many babies are more efficient at burping themselves.

How to burp your baby

Here are five different burping methods you can try. Every baby is different so find the most comfortable technique for you and your baby.

On the chest: Hold your baby against your chest so their chin is resting on your shoulder. Support them with one hand and gently pat or rub their back with the other.
Over the shoulder:hold your baby on your shoulder – high enough that your shoulder presses lightly on their belly, creating a gentle pressure that will encourage them to burp. Support them with one hand and gently pat or rub their back with the other.
Sitting on your lap: Sit your baby on your lap. Use one hand to support their body, the palm of your hand supporting their chest while your fingers gently support their chin and jaw. Keep their back straight and gently pat or rub their back with your other hand.
Face down across your lap: Lay your baby face down on your legs so they are lying across your knees, perpendicular to your body. Support their chin and jaw with one hand. Make sure your baby’s head isn’t lower than the rest of their body. Pat or rub their back with the other hand.
The lay down: Place your baby on a flat surface and gently with the palm of your hand, put a little bit of pressure on their tummy area and do circular motions for 3 to 5 minutes. Then pick them up and put them on your shoulder and they should burp pretty quickly.

When using any burping technique, give up or try a different position if you don’t get a burp after a few minutes. Your baby may not be ready to burp just yet.