Keeping babies clean often feels like a day-long job. That’s because it is.
Well, more of a life-long job.
Babies get messy. Cleaning spit-up is done regularly. That’s what burp cloths are for. They make your job easier. But how many burp cloths do you need, exactly?
When preparing for a baby, many parents tend to overlook burp cloths.
Those that don’t use any old cloth to keep their baby clean. But babies have sensitive skin. Burp cloths are specifically designed to be safe, soft, absorbent, and large enough.
Having enough burp cloths on hand is essential, but how many do you actually need?
It’s hard to say because it varies on a baby-to-baby basis. Some parents need more, while others need less. To find out how many you need, you have to consider a few factors.
Before we can do that, we have to explain what a burp cloth actually is and how to use it effectively. Preparation is key for expecting parents. You have to know what you need.
There are certain essential items that no parent can do without, like burp cloths.
So, let’s burp up some knowledge and get ready to clean.
What Is a Burp Cloth, Exactly?
During the first year of your baby’s life, burp cloths are essential.
It’s pretty straightforward. A burp cloth is used to clean spit-up, vomit and drool.
Although baby burping and vomiting is nothing to worry about, keeping your baby clean – and yourself – is important. Besides, it helps save you a few trips to the laundry room.
Naturally, burp cloths are mostly used while burping your baby – hence the name. Having a drool cloth on hand allows you to clean up any mess that your little angel makes quickly.
And, trust us, there will be a lot of mess.
Burping your baby is an important part of their feeding.
Not sure how to do it? Simply hold your baby upright against your shoulder and gently pat its back until it lets out a burp. This releases air bubbles trapped in the stomach.
The last thing you want is to have a gassy baby on your hands.
When burping your baby, having a burp cloth is essential. That’s because it protects your clothes from spit-up and allows you to clean the mess without having to change clothes.
There are a few ways to burp a baby, but we’ll get to that in a second.
For now, it’s important to know that you will want to have a burp cloth on hand.
But, how many burp cloths do you need?
If you’re expecting a baby, it’s hard to tell. After your baby is born, you will see how often they tend to spit up – and that’s what will tell you how many burp rags you need.
This piece of cloth is fundamental to your day-to-day life as a new parent.
Make sure to stock up on burp cloths and learn how to use them properly.
So, How Do You Burp a Baby?
Burping a baby isn’t difficult, but it takes some know-how.
First of all, it’s important to remember that burping your baby is a normal, natural part of feeding. Some babies find it easy to burp independently, but they always need your help.
Burping a baby is done to release air bubbles trapped in the tummy.
When should you do it? During or after feeding. Pay attention to cues.
Sometimes babies need to take a burping break. Otherwise, they get uncomfortable. Stay responsive. The best you can do is to observe your baby and look for signs of discomfort.
There are two safe and efficient positions that parents use to burp their babies.
• The over-the-shoulder position is the most common one. Start by holding your baby upright. Rest their head on your shoulder. Provide support by holding them gently.
Being gentle is important. You want your little one to feel safe in your embrace.
Proceed by gently patting the baby’s back. Do so lightly. We don’t mean slapping your baby and hitting them too hard. It’s all about being gentle. Let the position do the work.
Start from the bottom and work your way up. Be patient. It doesn’t always work.
If the position doesn’t yield results after a few minutes of trying, change things up.
• Try the on-your-lap position. Position them gently on your knee. Make sure to support the baby’s head with one hand. Use your other free hand to pat their back carefully.
If patting doesn’t work, you can also try rubbing your little angel’s back.
Be patient and persistent. Remember to keep your baby comfortable.
Babies need to burp, so it’s important to get it done right. These positions can help you.
They’re efficient and easy to do. Just make sure to keep trying.
During this process, you will be using a baby burp cloth for easy cleanup.
How to Use a Burp Cloth
Knowing what is a burp cloth is one thing – but how do you use it?
It may sound tricky but, like baby bibs, drool cloths are very easy to use.
It’s all about placement. How you position the cloth is the only thing that you really have to think about – and it’s simple. However, it depends on the burping position involved.
In the over-the-shoulder position, drape it over your shoulder.
In the on-your-lap position, place it on your lap.
Make sure that your baby’s head is facing the cloth. If your baby drools or spits up, it should land directly on the burp cloth, keeping your baby and your clothes stain-free.
You can also use the baby drool cloth to clean the baby’s mouth after burping.
However, you may not always be using them at home, too.
What about feeding your baby in a car seat? Don’t worry. The same rules apply.
After the process, check for spills.
If the baby cloth is wet and covered in spit-up, toss it into the laundry.
Using it once and washing it after every use is preferable.
That’s why it’s important to have more burp cloths on hand.
But, how many burp cloths do you need, precisely? Let’s investigate.
How Many Burp Cloths Do You Need?
As we said, it depends on how often your baby burps or spits up.
If your newborn is particularly drooly – you may need more.
Generally, you should be OK with 8 to 14 burp cloths in your parental inventory.
However, if you think you need more than that, go for it!
The more baby cloths you have on hand, the less laundry you have to do. Besides, you won’t have to worry about running out and potentially reusing a stained burp rag.
Keep in mind that you can wash burp cloths as many times as you want.
Most drool cloths are washer and dryer friendly. So you don’t have to wash them by hand.
How many burp cloths you need depends on the size, as well.
For example, if you buy really large pieces, then you won’t have to toss them into the laundry immediately. They are absorbent and able to soak up spit and drool effectively.
If your baby’s spit-up isn’t particularly messy, feel free to reuse them.
Don’t feel obligated to wash them if you’ve just soaked up a little trickle of drool.
How many burp cloths do you need is something that you will find out in time.
If you’re expecting a newborn, aim for 8 to 14 burp cloths. If it turns out that you need more, you can pick them up at the shop without worrying about not having any on hand.
That’s the middle ground that works best for new parents.
Just have some ready beforehand and be willing to expand the quantity if necessary.
What Are the Best Burp Cloths?
So, you have a baby on the way and you want to stock up on essentials.
Or your newborn is already here and you’re ready to shop for baby supplies.
Or maybe you want to specify your wishes in your baby registry.
Either way, knowing what the best burp cloths are is just as important as understanding how many burp cloths do you need, exactly. So, here’s everything that you need to know.
The best burp cloths are soft, absorbent and machine-washable – like organic cotton.
Organic cotton should be your go-to material for baby bibs and burp cloths.
Babies have sensitive skin and they need soft, breathable materials, whether it’s baby bibs, burp cloths, clothes or anything else that gets in contact with their delicate skin.
Make sure to shop at popular baby stores and buy only from reputable brands.
The quality of the fabric is what makes a drool cloth safe for your baby.
That’s why cotton is every parent’s number one choice.
If you’re looking for a popular alternative – you may want to consider muslin.
Technically, muslin is a cotton fabric, but the process of making it is different.
Either way, both options are perfectly fine for your newborn.
Today, there is a lot of variety in regards to burp cloths. From waterproof versions to organic cotton options, there is a burp cloth for any parent’s need and preference.
You may even want to consider style, since they come in different colors and patterns.
How Long Can You Use a Burp Cloth?
In general, you can use them for as long as you want.
However, you will probably be using them for about 6 to 9 months.
At a certain point, burping will become unnecessary. Usually, this happens at around 4 to 6 months. Most babies outgrow it, but it’s important to remember that it can take longer.
Be observant in order to notice your baby’s cues.
Drool cloths are usually necessary for as long as your little on is fed by bottle or breast.
So long as there’s mess to clean up – they’re useful.
Just because burping stops doesn’t mean that burp cloths become useless.
You can still utilize them in different ways to keep your baby clean.
Newborns get most of their sustenance from milk and that lasts for about 12 months.
That’s why it’s hard to say when exactly you’re not going to need burp cloths anymore.
In certain cases, due to frequency of use, burp cloths can become damaged. If there is noticeable wear and tear on the fabric, it’s time to toss it aside and find a replacement.
Either way, if you’re wondering how long you can use them – you can use them for as long as you want since burp cloths are made from high quality materials. They last.
Just remember to wash them frequently.
What if You Have Twins?
Are you expecting twins? It’s double the joy, but double the work, too.
What’s the perfect number of burp rags when you’re having twins?
You may think that the logical answer is to simply double it. However, when you have two babies to worry about, you generally have less time for daily chores – such as laundering.
So, instead of doubling, what you really need to do is to go higher.
For example, instead of 10, you would get 25. Instead of 15 – 35. You get the gist.
Having extra drool cloths can save you a lot of time.
It’s important to be prepared, especially if you’re a new parent.
Prioritize getting everything you need before the big moment comes.
You can get help from your friends and family by stating your wishes in your baby registry. Otherwise, you can get everything you need from your local baby shop.
Baby Bibs & Burp Cloths
In the parenting world, both items are considered essentials.
However, their purposes vary. You have to know the difference.
So, baby bibs are basically cloths that your baby wears around their neck while feeding.
Babies are naturally messy and you need baby bibs to keep them stain-free. This helps you avoid changing their clothes after every meal due to accidentally spilled food.
What is a burp cloth? Well, we’ve covered that already, but it’s important to remember that both of these baby items are unique, even though their purpose may seem similar at first.
Both of these items come in handy, and you can easily store them in a diaper bag.
In Conclusion
The purpose of this article is to inform you as to how many burp cloths you need.
Quantity is necessary, but it’s never the only thing new parents must consider.
You have to be adequately prepared as you look to embark on this beautiful journey. That means knowing everything we’ve covered, including how actually to use and wash them.
Parenting can be exhausting, especially for new parents.
By having everything ready beforehand, you save yourself from a world of trouble.
Keep in mind that after giving birth, it’s typical to panic and to be confused.
Remember to stop and cherish the journey, to take photos, even.
We’re here to provide answers so that you can fully enjoy your baby’s arrival.
With the information you have at your disposal, it’s time to hit the shop.
Get everything you need, and remember that it’s better to overstock than to understock.
Mother of three and a primary school teacher. I’ve always loved being around children and helping them, so I chose my path as a teacher. It is sometimes hectic with three children, but I am 100 percent into it and wouldn’t change it for anything in the world.
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