Baby Gas Relief Remedies
Is your baby squirming, crying, or pulling those tiny legs up to their belly? Gas could be the culprit—and you’re not alone in the struggle. While it’s a normal part of infancy, trapped gas can leave your little one in tears and you feeling helpless.
But relief is within reach. This article shares tried-and-true remedies that calm fussiness, improve sleep, and help you both breathe easier. From feeding tweaks to calming techniques, these proven tips can make all the difference.
Choose a Softer Feeding Approach
A gentler feeding method can ease gas in babies, especially during breastfeeding. If a caregiver has a strong milk flow or an abundant supply, expressing a small amount of milk by hand before latching can help. This slows the flow, making it easier for the baby to feed without swallowing too much air.
For bottle-fed babies, paced bottle feeding is a helpful option. This involves holding the bottle horizontally and allowing the baby to pause during feeding. It mimics the natural rhythm of breastfeeding and reduces the chance of gulping air. Using bottles designed to support breastfeeding can also make feeding more comfortable.
Help Your Baby Release Gas with More Burping
Feeding time is a great opportunity to ease gas by burping your baby more often. Caregivers should burp babies after each feeding and sometimes during a feeding—about halfway through. Some babies may also need a second gentle burping to release any leftover trapped gas.
To burp your baby, sit them upright on your knee, support their head and neck, and gently pat or rub their back. This easy method gives gas a way out and helps your baby feel more relaxed and comfortable after feeding.
Massage Your Baby’s Tummy Gently
Gently massaging your baby’s belly can help move trapped gas and ease mild tummy discomfort. Pick a time when your baby is calm—usually at least 30 minutes after a feeding. Use light, clockwise strokes that follow the natural direction of the digestive system.
Caregivers should pay attention to how the baby reacts during the massage. If there are signs of relief or discomfort, adjust the pressure or stop as needed.
Favorite Baby Massage Oils
Using baby massage oils can make tummy massages more relaxing and comfortable. Here are a few options to consider:
| Product Name | Notable Ingredient |
|---|---|
| Earth Mama Calendula Baby Oil | Calendula |
| Honest Organic Baby Oil | Chamomile |
Select oil that is suitable for babies and try a small amount on their skin to check for any reactions before use.
Try Gentle Stomach Play
Tummy time is a simple way to help your baby release trapped gas. Laying your baby on their stomach encourages movement, which can naturally relieve gas pressure. This position also helps build neck and upper body strength, which supports healthy development.
To make tummy time more fun, parents can use toys or make silly faces to keep their baby entertained. These playful moments not only ease discomfort but also make the experience more enjoyable for both baby and parent.
Do a Comfort Carry
Parents can help relieve colic by laying the baby face-down along their forearm or across their lap. This position puts soft pressure on the baby’s belly, which may ease gas and discomfort.
While holding the baby this way, gently rub or pat their back to help release gas. Many caregivers find this hold comforting for the baby and supportive for soothing fussiness.
Give Gripe Water
Many parents use gripe water—a herbal liquid—to soothe babies with gas or fussiness. While there’s no strong scientific proof that it works, some families find it helpful for gentle relief. Doctors remind caregivers that breastmilk or formula is best for babies under six months, but an occasional use of gripe water is generally considered safe.
Common ingredients in gripe water:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sugar | To improve taste |
| Fennel/Herbs | Traditionally ease gas |
| Ginger root | Soothes stomach discomfort |
Some gripe water brands, like Mommy’s Bliss, have thousands of positive reviews. Caregivers should check with a doctor before starting any new supplement for their baby.
Use Gas Relief Drops for Infants
When babies are fussy from gas, many parents turn to gas relief drops for help. These drops contain simethicone, a medicine considered safe for infants. It works by joining small gas bubbles in the stomach, making them easier to release.
Although research on how well they work is limited, many families report good results. They’re easy to give and available without a prescription.
Consider Using Infant Probiotics
Probiotic drops made for babies may help support a healthy digestive system. Some infants seem to feel better after using these supplements, though results are different for each child. While some babies might benefit, a few may actually feel more discomfort. Parents should watch for any changes and talk to a healthcare provider if symptoms change or worsen.
Use Windi for Fast Gas Relief
Windi the Gaspasser is a helpful technique to ease a baby’s discomfort from gas, constipation, or colic. It’s made as a one-time-use tube from soft, flexible materials and is safe when used as directed. A built-in stopper prevents it from going in too far, helping parents feel more confident about using it.
How it works:
- The caregiver lightly inserts the tube into the baby’s bottom.
- The tube goes just far enough to pass the muscle that holds gas in.
- Gas is released through the tube, providing fast relief without medicine.
This solution does not use any drops or pills, and its design focuses on both safety and effectiveness.
Adjust Formula and Bottle Feeding
Switching to a different type of formula may help reduce your baby’s gas. Some babies do better with one brand or formula than another, so it’s helpful to notice how your baby feels after a change.
When preparing powdered formula, let it sit for a minute after mixing. This short pause allows air bubbles to settle, which can lower the amount of air your baby swallows during feeding.
Review Solid Foods and Mom’s Diet
For babies who have started solid foods, cutting back on gas-causing items like beans or broccoli may help ease discomfort. In most cases, breastfeeding mothers don’t need to avoid gassy foods themselves, as these usually don’t affect the baby’s gas levels.
However, parents should watch for other symptoms like poor weight gain, diarrhea, or rashes. These could be signs of a milk protein allergy and may need a doctor’s attention.
Move Baby’s Legs in a Bicycling Motion
Gently moving your baby’s legs in a bicycle-like motion can help gas move through the bowels. This simple action may bring relief by helping release trapped air.
To do this, slowly press both legs toward the baby’s belly, then straighten them again. Repeat the motion gently and calmly. Doing this a few times can make it easier for your baby to pass gas and feel more comfortable.
Try a Foot Rub for Tummy Relief
A soothing foot massage may help a baby with gas. Some parents believe that rubbing certain spots on the foot can ease tummy issues, while others find that any soft touch simply relaxes their baby. This method is safe to try when the baby is calm, such as after a bath or before bedtime.
How to Give a Calm Foot Massage:
- Wash your hands and make sure they are warm.
- Use a bit of baby-safe lotion or oil.
- Gently rub the sole of the foot using your thumb in slow circles.
- Try light pressure—never push hard. Focus on the middle area of the foot, as some believe this spot connects to the belly.
- Move slowly and talk softly to the baby to keep them comfortable.
- Watch your baby’s face for signs of enjoyment or discomfort, and stop if they are upset.
If your baby shows pain or doesn’t enjoy the massage, stop and check with a healthcare provider. Never use massage in place of medical care. Always contact a doctor if your baby is constipated, not eating, or having trouble gaining weight.
Most of the techniques in this guide are safe to try when your baby is calm and content. As you explore different options, pay attention to what soothes your little one best—each baby responds differently.
After trying these calming strategies, you may find what brings the most comfort to your baby. Relieving baby gas doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right mix of soothing techniques, feeding tweaks, and trusted remedies, you can bring comfort back to your baby’s day—and your nights too.
