🍼 Feeding · 0 – 6 months
💨 Burping baby after a bottle or nursing session
While feeding, babies swallow air. That trapped air in their little tummy causes discomfort, fussiness, and spit-up. Burping helps vent that pesky air bubble before it causes drama.
What you'll need
- 1 burp cloth or small towel draped over your shoulder to protect your shirt from collateral damage.
How to get that burp out
1. The Shoulder Move (the classic)
Hold baby upright against your chest, with their chin resting comfortably on your shoulder. Gently pat or rub their back from bottom to top with a flat, relaxed hand.
2. The Lap Sit
Sit baby on your thighs facing sideways. Support their chest and chin with one hand (without putting pressure on their throat) and gently pat their back with your other hand.
3. Patience, dad
Keep baby upright for 10 to 15 minutes after feeding so gravity can do its thing.
Classic mistakes
- ❌ Whacking their back too hard This isn't rugby training. Gentle, rhythmic pats or firm upward rubs are more than enough to nudge the air up.
- ❌ Laying baby flat right after feeding A guaranteed recipe for painful reflux and spit-up all over the crib sheets.
This guide doesn't replace medical advice. When in doubt, call your doctor or your local emergency number.