How to wind your baby: A guide for parents

Learning how to burp a baby properly is one of the most effective ways to keep them comfortable, reduce crying and support healthy digestion. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to wind a baby, when to do it and expert baby wind tips to make the process easier, so both you and your little one can relax.

At a glance

• Winding (burping) helps release trapped air from a baby’s stomach after feeding, reducing discomfort and crying.
• It can prevent gas, reflux, and fussiness while helping babies feed and sleep more comfortably.
• Babies should be winded during feeds, after feeds, or whenever they show signs like squirming, pulling away, or crying.
• Common winding methods include holding your baby over the shoulder, sitting them upright on your lap, or lying them face-down across your lap.

What does ‘winding a baby’ mean?

Winding (also known as burping) is the process of helping your baby release air bubbles trapped in their stomach during feeding.

Babies often swallow air while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, which can lead to discomfort, bloating and crying, if not released as a baby burp.

Why is it important to wind your baby?

If you’ve ever struggled with a fussy, uncomfortable baby after feeding, trapped wind could be the cause.

Winding your baby regularly can:

• Reduce discomfort and fussiness.
• Prevent painful gas build-up.
• Help your baby feed more effectively.
• Lower the chances of spit-up and reflux.

Many parents notice that after a baby burp, a baby settles more easily and sleeps better.

When should you wind your baby?

Timing is key.

Try winding your baby:

• During feeds (especially when switching breasts or halfway through a bottle).
• After every feed.
• Whenever your baby seems unsettled or is wriggling.

Signs your baby needs winding

Some babies need more winding than others, so it’s important to learn your baby’s cues.

Look out for these common signs that there is trapped baby wind:

• Wriggling during feeds.
• Pulling away from the bottle or breast.
• Crying or fussiness after feeding.
• Arching their back.
• Drawing legs into tummy.
• Clenched fists.

Recognising these baby cues early can prevent your baby’s discomfort building up.

How to burp a baby: Simple Methods

Every baby is different, so you may need to try a few positions to find what works best.

Below are some methods you can try with your baby. All have been recommended by the NHS.

A. Over the shoulder

This is the most common and effective technique for many parents.

• Hold your baby upright against your shoulder.
• Support their head and neck.
• Gently pat or rub their back.

B. Seated on your lap

This method gives you more control and works well for younger babies.

• Sit your baby upright on your lap so that they are facing away from you.
• Place the palm of your hand flat against their chest and support their chin and jaw (do not put any pressure on the throat area. Then lean your baby slightly forward.
• With your other hand, gently rub or pat their back.

C. Face down on your lap

This position can help release stubborn trapped wind.

• Lay your baby face down across your lap.
• Ensure their head is slightly higher than their chest.
• Gently rub or pat their back.

D. On their back

• You can also try lying your baby on their back and gently moving their legs back and forth like they’re riding a bicycle.

Helpful tips for easier winding

• Be gentle. Firm pats are fine but avoid force.
• Keep a muslin cloth handy for spills.
• Stay patient. Some babies take longer than others.
• Try different positions to see what works best.

Consistency is key and you’ll quickly learn your baby’s preferences.

How long should winding take?

Winding usually takes a few minutes, but sometimes it can take longer.

If a baby burp does not happen after 5-10 minutes:

• Try changing positions.
• Continue feeding and try again later.

Not all babies burp every time and that’s completely normal.

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