7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (2024)

Burp cloths are a mom’s best friend when it comes to protecting your clothes (and your baby’s clothes) from smelly, messy spit-up. But we’ve tried all kinds of burp cloths, and we can confidently say that not all are created equal. It can be frustrating when regurgitated milk soaks through or runs right off the cloth that’s supposed to be keeping you clean.

So, we’ve made it our mission to find the best burp cloths for preventing those nasty stains. We’ve studied countless options, listening to what other parents have to say about each and trying out many ourselves. We’re confident that with one of these seven burp cloths, you won’t have to startle every time your baby lets out a belch.

Our Top Picks

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Model

Product Comparison Table

Features

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (1)

Best Patterned Burp Cloths

Gerber Baby Flannel

  • Durable fabric
  • Cute patterns
  • Very absorbent

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (2)

Best Cloth Diaper Burp Cloths

Gerber Prefold Diaper

  • Provides full coverage
  • Quick to absorb
  • Multi-purpose use

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (3)

Best Organic Burp Cloths

Green Sprouts Muslin

  • Variety of colors to choose from
  • Made from organic cotton
  • Hypoallergenic

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (4)

Best Large Burp Cloths

Copper Pearl

  • Cute, trendy prints
  • Reversible fabric
  • Big and absorbent

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (5)

Best Plain Burp Cloths

Muslin Burp Cloths

  • Absorbs liquid quickly
  • Easy to clean
  • Versatile

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (6)

Best Budget Burp Cloths

Luvable Friends Flannel

  • Impressive range of designs
  • Great value for money
  • Soft and gentle on skin

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (7)

Best Bamboo Burp Cloths

Milkbarn Bamboo Cotton

  • Environmentally friendly
  • Cute, unconventional designs
  • Very large size

Table of Contents

  • Our Top Picks
  • Are Burp Cloths Necessary?
  • How Many Burp Cloths Do I Need?
  • When Should I Start Using Burp Cloths?
  • How to Choose Burp Cloths
  • How to Make Your Own Burp Cloths
  • FAQs

The Best Burp Cloths of 2024

Here are 7 great burp cloths to consider.

Gerber Baby Flannel Burp Cloths

Best Patterned Burp Cloths

These adorable Gerber cloths are big enough to cover your whole shoulder so none of your clothing falls victim to a spit-up incident. They come in a package of four and are a great bargain for those watching their budgets.

The best thing about these is the cute variety of patterns to choose from, including flowers, polka dots, stripes, hearts, or charming little elephants.

They’re made of pure 100 percent cotton flannel, which is soft on babies’ skin and can hold a lot of liquid. The edges are neatly serged, so they shouldn’t fray, even after repeated washings.

Pros

  • Durable, soft flannel fabric.
  • Cute patterns.
  • Highly absorbent.

Cons

  • Colors and prints fade with repeated washings.
  • Flannel doesn’t “grab” liquid as quickly as other fabrics.

Our Ratings

User Experience

My experience with these burp cloths has been a mixed bag. On one hand, they're soft, cute, and perfect for handling small amounts of spit-up. However, the blue one tends to bleed color, staining my baby's clothes and even her mouth. Also, they're not as absorbent as I'd like - sometimes, spit-up just rolls off instead of being caught by the cloth. While these are generally good burp cloths, they're not the best on the market and could use some improvements.

Gerber Prefold Gauze Diaper

Best Cloth Diaper Burp Cloths

These gauze diapers might be one of the most versatile products you could buy for your baby.

In addition to being great diapers and burp cloths, these can also be used to protect your lap against leaks or as cleaning cloths once your baby outgrows diapers. Some moms use them as makeshift changing pads as well.

As these were made to hold diaper messes, they are one of the most absorbent options. The open weave of the gauze sucks up moisture fast and holds it. The tri-fold design with extra layers in the center allows you to spread them out across a wider range or fold them for basic shoulder coverage.

At 11.5 inches by 16 inches, they’re generously sized but still fold or stack pretty flat to fit in your diaper bag.

Pros

  • Larger than many other styles.
  • Made to last and don’t get pilly.
  • Can be used for many other purposes.
  • Very inexpensive.

Cons

  • Not as soft as some other brands.
  • Fabric shrinks with repeated washings.

Our Ratings

Material

4 / 5

Absorbency

5 / 5

Comfort

3.5 / 5

Machine Washable

3 / 5

Total Rating

3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

In my experience, these 6-ply diapers have been versatile and useful in a variety of situations. The material is durable and absorbent, making them perfect for use as burp cloths, but they have also come in handy during diaper changes and nursing sessions. However, I did notice that some of the diapers had an odd shape, making them a bit bulky and difficult to use as inserts. Additionally, I encountered a few quality control issues, such as fraying ends and rust stains. Despite these minor setbacks, I still find these diapers to be a worthwhile purchase for their numerous practical uses.

Green Sprouts Muslin Burp Cloths

Best Organic Burp Cloths

These hourglass-shaped burp cloths by Green Sprouts are made from organic cotton and come in a set of three. At 11 inches wide and 22 inches long, they are a full-coverage cloth.

Made with four absorbent layers of organic cotton, these cloths are a great choice for parents who are worried about their children being exposed to fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Plus, they are hypoallergenic and feel really soft against your baby’s skin.

Pros

  • They come in a variety of colors and prints.
  • Fabric gets softer with every wash.
  • Hourglass shape fits well around necks and shoulders.

Cons

  • Fabric shrinks in the wash.
  • Cotton muslin can fray over time.

Our Ratings

Material

4.5 / 5

Absorbency

4 / 5

Comfort

4.5 / 5

Machine Washable

3 / 5

Total Rating

4 / 5

Community Feedback

I've tried multiple burp cloths for my little one, and these are by far the best. They are thick, absorbent, and have a great shape that easily goes over the shoulder. The generous size and softness make them comfortable to use, and they hold up well after washing. The absorbency is fast and effective, preventing any messes on my shoulder or floor. While they may be plain in design, their usefulness and quality make them a top choice for any parent.

Copper Pearl Baby Burp Cloths

Best Large Burp Cloths

The outer layers of these burp cloths are made from ultra-soft cotton with a highly absorbent center layer of fleece. They suck up a ton of spit-up, keeping you and your baby clean.

Generously sized at 21 by 10 inches, they come in a range of cute prints that will both look adorable and delight your baby. For added protection, Copper Pearl also sells baby bibs in coordinating prints.

Pros

  • Trendy prints.
  • Fabric holds up to repeated washing.
  • Absorbent enough for frequent spitters.

Cons

  • Not the cheapest option.
  • You have to air dry them.

Our Ratings

Material

4.5 / 5

Absorbency

4.5 / 5

Comfort

4.5 / 5

Machine Washable

3.5 / 5

Total Rating

4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I've been using these burp cloths for a while now, and I've found them to be incredibly soft, absorbent, and effective in cleaning up messes. Their large size provides great coverage, which has saved my shirts on numerous occasions. While they do tend to wrinkle and shrink a bit after washing, this doesn't affect their overall performance. I appreciate the cute, gender-neutral designs and the fact that they remain soft even after handling multiple feedings.

Muslin Burp Cloths

Best Plain Burp Cloths

These white burp cloths are made from six layers of 100 percent cotton muslin, one of the best fabrics for quickly absorbing liquid. They are multifunctional and can be used as diapers, cleaning cloths, breastfeeding covers, changing pads, and more.

The super-soft fabric is comfortable against your baby’s skin when you’re trying to burp them or put them to sleep.

This package includes six cloths, and at a generous 10 by 20 inches, they provide great coverage against messes.

Pros

  • Muslin fabric absorbs quickly and holds a lot.
  • Big enough for full coverage.
  • Versatile cloths can be used as diapers, changing pads, and more.

Cons

  • Fabric may not hold up to lots of washing.

Our Ratings

Material

4 / 5

Absorbency

4.5 / 5

Comfort

4.5 / 5

Machine Washable

3.5 / 5

Total Rating

4 / 5

User Experience

Excellent burp cloths for both babies and adults alike! As a parent of a 4-month-old, I find these burp cloths to be perfect for travel, as they're compact and budget-friendly. They're quite absorbent, although they may soak through with larger messes. I also discovered that these baby washcloths are gentle enough for face washing, thanks to their soft fabric and convenient size. With a variety of colors and their durability, I've been using these burp cloths consistently for the past 7 months without needing to repurchase. They wash well and have become an essential item in our household, even for our toddler.

Luvable Friends Flannel Burp Cloths

Best Budget Burp Cloths

If you’ve balked at the price of some other brands and wondered how a piece of fabric could be so expensive, these burp cloths from Luvable friends will have you breathing a sigh of relief.

As one of the more affordable cloths, they come in so many lovely colors and designs. You can buy quite a few and never be without a fresh, clean cloth on hand.

The center panel includes three absorbent layers of 100 percent cotton, with two layers on the outer panels. Each package includes three ribbon-tied cloths.

Pros

  • Impressive range of designs to choose from.
  • Great value for the price.
  • Soft and gentle on the skin.

Cons

  • Cloths have a chemical smell before their first wash.
  • Fabric tends to fade and pill after multiple washes.

Our Ratings

Material

3.5 / 5

Absorbency

3.5 / 5

Comfort

4 / 5

Machine Washable

2.5 / 5

Total Rating

3.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Got these burp cloths as a gift and they've been a lifesaver for my baby who has acid reflux and pukes a lot. These are super absorbent, soft, and thick, ensuring no mess soaks through. They're easy to clean and perfect for traveling as they fold up small. The only downside is they shrink a bit after drying, but that's a small sacrifice for the great quality and functionality of these burp cloths.

Milkbarn Bamboo Cotton Burp Cloths

Best Bamboo Burp Cloths

If you love vintage designs, rustic baby accessories, and charming old-school baby clothes, you’ll be drooling over these Milkbarn burp cloths. They’re made of 70 percent bamboo rayon and 30 percent cotton for a blend that’s soft, eco-friendly, and long-lasting.

With vintage prints in a range of earthy colors, each package comes with two burp cloths, each an ample 23 inches square.

These burp cloths look as though they could have been handed down from great-grandma, and they’re robust enough to stay strong after many washes. They even come in a cute burlap wrapper that seals with a wooden button.

Pros

  • Environmentally friendly fabrics.
  • Cute, unconventional designs.
  • Extra-large size.

Cons

  • Not absorbent enough for a big spitter.
  • Material is thin and somewhat rough.

Our Ratings

Material

4 / 5

Absorbency

3 / 5

Comfort

3.5 / 5

Machine Washable

4 / 5

Total Rating

3.5 / 5

Community Feedback

Love how these small, breathable, and lightweight blankets have become my children's lovies, accompanying them throughout the house and car. The variety of adorable animal designs make it easy for each child to identify their own blanket, preventing any disputes. I've experienced both the cotton and bamboo versions, and while both are incredibly soft, the bamboo ones are noticeably softer. Although I appreciate the softness, I must point out that at 22"x22" and with its thin fabric, these blankets are not particularly effective as burp cloths.

Are Burp Cloths Necessary?

Approximately 50 percent of babies spit up on a regular basis (1). The other 50 percent spit up occasionally, but you still never quite know when it’s going to happen.

When babies drink a lot of milk, they need to release the pressure that builds up in their digestive tracts. The best way to do that is by burping after feeding, but occasionally more than just air will come up in the process!

Spit-up can leave greasy stains on clothing from the fat content in your baby’s milk. It can also be embarrassing to walk around with stinky, milky stains on your clothes. And no one wants their sweet baby to smell like vomit all the time.This is where burp cloths come in.

Although they’re not a requirement, burp cloths can be a lifesaver and prevent messy situations — especially if your baby is a heavy spitter. Throw one over your shoulder if you burp your baby at your shoulder or in front of your baby if you burp them on your lap. The highly absorbent materials should catch any spit-up and keep it from soiling your clothes or your baby’s.

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How Many Burp Cloths Do I Need?

You don’t want to skimp on burp cloths. They usually don’t cost much, but they can save you a fortune in stained clothing. One big spit-up can soak a burp cloth, so you should always keep several on hand.

We recommend keeping at least two or three in your diaper bag at all times. If your baby is a heavy spitter or you are away from home for more than two or three hours at a time, consider adding a couple more to that. You will also want to have at least eight burp cloths available at home.

10–18 Is Ideal

If you don’t want to be doing laundry all the time, it’s a good idea to purchase a total of 10–18 burp cloths.

When Should I Start Using Burp Cloths?

You should have burp cloths on hand before you bring your baby home from the hospital.Some babies might not need them immediately — most babies don’t spit up much in the first few days — but yours might.

If you stock up before your baby is born, you can be prepared. You don’t know exactly when your baby will spit up — it’s not something you plan for, right? So it’s best to be vigilant and always have one on hand, especially when you’re wearing nice clothes you don’t want to be destroyed.

Even if your baby isn’t a spitter, burp cloths are handy for wiping milk from the corners of their mouth or keeping drool off your shoulder when your baby is napping.

How to Choose Burp Cloths

Burp cloths come in a wide range of fabrics, shapes, and sizes.The best burp cloths will take these factors into account.

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (16)

Size

As your baby ages, they may start spitting up larger quantities of milk. Longer burp cloths that fully cover your shoulder are best to keep your clothes protected. If you opt for smaller cloths for your newborn, remember to size up as they grow.

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (17)

Fabric

You can buy burp cloths in a wide range of colors and prints, including many themed or specialty fabrics. Be careful not to get sucked into purchasing cloths that are cute but not functional.

The best burp cloths will be made of highly absorbent fabrics like terry, flannel, cotton, or muslin. Avoid liquid-repelling fabrics like fleece. If you have a family history of allergies to certain fabrics, you may wish to avoid those in case your baby has inherited that allergy too.

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (18)

Durability

You want a thick, durable cloth that can endure repeated washings. And believe me, you’re going to be washing these things a lot.

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (19)

Affordability

Burp cloths can be purchased for as cheap as $1 or as costly as $8 per piece. The average price for a basic set of six burp cloths is $6. However, if you’re shopping for homemade items, specialty fabrics, or trendy prints, you’ll likely have to pay a little more. Regardless, they are one of the most affordable baby items.

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (20)

Extras

Some burp cloths include pockets for holding pacifiers or other small items while you burp. Others include fun add-ons such as fringes, knots, or textures for teething babies to gnaw on. Although these can be handy, they’re certainly not necessary. What’s most important is that your burp cloths are going to absorb whatever your baby spits at them.

How to Make Your Own Burp Cloths

Even those of us who aren’t handy with a sewing machine can see how easy it would be to create DIY burp cloths. In fact, you can recycle all kinds of things to make these useful fabric squares, saving you money in the process.

If that seems like too much effort, there’s nothing to stop you from simply repurposing any favorite cloth as a burp cloth. Turn over the raw edges and hem either by hand or machine, or use old receiving blankets, cloth diapers, or even a thick hand or kitchen towel.

FAQs

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (21)

How Many Layers Should a Burp Cloth Be?

The number of layers depends on your own personal preference and how much absorbency you want. Some burp cloths are made of a single layer of fabric, while others have two or three layers.

Thicker burp cloths provide more absorbency, but they can also be bulkier and harder to pack in a diaper bag. In the end, it’s up to you to decide what works best.

7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (22)

How Often Should You Change Burp Cloth?

Burp cloths should be changed as soon as they become damp or soiled. This usually happens after just one or two uses, depending on the baby’s feeding habits.

Try to have multiple burp cloths on hand so you can easily switch them out when you soil one. Make sure to wash them frequently to prevent bacteria and odors from building up.

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7 Best Burp Cloths of 2024 (2024)

FAQs

What material makes the best burp cloths? ›

Good quality burp cloths will have two layers. The first layer can be printed but should be made of cotton. This makes it look beautiful and is the first layer in absorbing dribble. The second layer should be bamboo or fleece.

How many burp cloths is enough? ›

Most baby registries feature four to six burp cloths, or an average of two packs. Our rule of thumb is to double that. Register for 10 to 12 cloths in various patterns or colors. The soft material is excellent for everything from gently wiping a wet chin after a feeding to sopping up drool.

What are the best cloth diapers for burp cloths? ›

PREFOLD CLOTH DIAPERS

Prefold diapers are thicker and more absorbent than flats, making them slightly better for using as burp cloths. Prefold cloth diapers are an economical choice for many parents who want to use cloth diapers.

When did you stop using burp cloths? ›

How Long Do Babies Need Burp Cloths? Babies usually need burp cloths for as long as they're fed by bottle or breast. It's different for every child, but they get most of their sustenance from milk until about 12 months of age.

What is the best color for a burp cloth? ›

You can have lighter colors in your baby tool kit as well, but it is best to use darker ones for everyday use. Now, if you're looking for an economical way to get the best baby burp cloths, then here is a tip: look for sets.

How many layers of flannel do I need for a burp cloth? ›

I only use two flannels no batting when making burp cloths. I have seen some in LQS that use just two layers of flannel. They feel really soft and I bet they are absorbent. I have been making burp clothes using flannel on one side and a prefolded diaper on the other.

Can you use tea towels as burp cloths? ›

Tea Towels – You can use a tea towel instead. They are a good size and absorbent. The main negative is that most are pretty ugly. And you might not like drying the dishes with them once you know what they have been used for.

How often should I wash burp cloths? ›

It's best to wash them every time they get used and spit up on. Fortunately, top-quality burp cloths are highly durable, and some of the best can withstand many runs through the washing machine. As long as you have plenty of extras on hand, you should be able to handle whatever messes your little one throws your way.

Are burp cloths worth it? ›

For example, they can help protect the baby's face and mouth from saliva and drool. They can also be used to clean the baby's face and mouth if they happen to spit up. And if you are using them as blankets or bibs, they can help keep the baby's clothes clean.

Are copper pearl burp cloths worth it? ›

One of our favorites for absorbency is the Copper Pearl. It has a fleece inner core that makes it one of the most absorbent options in our review. Built for being absorbent, the Gerber Prefold is also a top performer, letting hardly any liquid through the numerous layers of gauze weave fabric.

What is the difference between a burp cloth and a muslin cloth? ›

Muslin Cloth v's Burping Cloths

Use – These are used during feeding to wipe away small amounts of milk. While spit-up pads protect you and your clothes when burping a newborn. Size – Muslin cloths are square in shape and measure 25cm x 25cm. They are smaller in size than spit-up rags.

Can you use minky fabric for burp cloths? ›

I have used this method to sew burp clothes for all of my own kids and they are always a great baby shower gift too! If you are new to sewing, this tutorial is for you! If sewing with the minky fabric makes you a little nervous you can always use chenille because it doesn't slip around as much as the minky fabric can.

At what age do you stop burping a baby? ›

Most babies will outgrow the need to be burped by 4-6 months of age. You can often tell that a baby needs to be burped if he or she is squirmy or pulling away while being fed. This being said, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents try to burp their baby: When a nursing mother switches breasts or.

What is the grandmothers burp? ›

Grandmother's burp: Sit the baby on your lap with the heel of one hand pressed into their stomach and your fingers on either side of their chin to support the baby's head. Run your thumb and forefinger up the baby's spine. The 'old-school' burp: Hold the baby in your lap and bend them slightly forward at the waist.

What can I do with old burp cloths? ›

Dresses or Blankets for Dolls – Once your baby gets older they will play a lot with toys. Old burping pads make for the perfect blanket, mattress or dress for dolls. They will love it, even more, knowing they used it when they were a baby. Cleaning Cloth – Spit-up cloths are ideal to use as a cleaning cloth.

Are muslin burp cloths better? ›

The best fabric for burp cloths is one that's soft, absorbent and fast-drying. If in doubt go for a burp cloth made from natural materials like cotton or muslin.

How do I choose a burp cloth? ›

The best material for burp cloths is absorbent and soft. Cotton, terrycloth, and fleece are all good options.

Are burp cloths and muslin the same? ›

Muslin Cloth v's Burping Cloths

While spit-up pads protect you and your clothes when burping a newborn. Size – Muslin cloths are square in shape and measure 25cm x 25cm. They are smaller in size than spit-up rags.

Why are burp cloths thicker in the middle? ›

Some burp cloths are designed to be thicker in the middle to catch and absorb the bulk of spit-up or vomit, keeping it away from your clothes.

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