How to Burp a Baby Fast

When babies drink, especially form a bottle, they often swallow air into their tiny digestive tracts. Because they aren't as mobile, they aren't able to burp on their own—and if they don't pass the air out of their systems, they can get uncomfortable and fussy as pressure builds. Excess gas also causes babies to spit up and to have trouble sleeping. It's always a good idea to burp a baby after she eats.

If your baby gets fussy after eating, you'll want to burp her fast. A few tips can help you get rid of those air bubbles on the double.

Burp every two to three ounces of formula, according to Healthy Children. Breastfed babies don't need to be burped as often, because it's a more natural way for them to eat and they typically swallow less air. As air builds up in your baby's system, he may begin to fuss. Feeding him while he's fussing will make him swallow even more air and can make the feeding and burping process take longer.

Keep your baby in an upright position until the gas passes, according to Ask Dr. Sears website. Gas leaves a baby's digestive tract quicker if the baby is upright. Position her on your shoulder, her stomach making contact with your body; or sitting in your lap, leaning forward against your hand. Rub or pat her lower back with your other hand. Use a frontpack or sling if you need your hands free.

Sit in a rocker recommends KidsHealth. The simultaneous act of patting her back and rocking back and forth in the chair may free up trapped gas and speed up burping.

Vary the amount of pressure you use when you burp your baby. It could be that you're tapping too lightly to dislodge trapped gas. Slightly increasing how hard you pat you baby's back might speed up burping. Pat your baby's lower back firmly but not hard enough to cause discomfort. Or try firmly rubbing low on her back.

Switch burping positions. If the standard over-the-shoulder burp isn't working, try putting him across your lap or sitting him on your knee and cradling his head as you lean him slightly forward. A position change can facilitate faster burping by helping to move air bubbles through his system.