Burp cloths are a parent’s best defense against the smelly, messy reality of spit-up. Whether you are protecting your favorite shirt or your baby’s outfit, you need a barrier that actually works. We have tested all kinds of burp cloths, and we can confidently say they aren’t all created equal. There is nothing worse than regurgitated milk soaking right through a thin fabric onto your shoulder.
We made it our mission to find the best burp cloths for preventing those nasty stains. After studying countless options, listening to parents, and cleaning up plenty of messes ourselves, we found the top contenders. With one of these seven options, you won’t have to panic every time your baby lets out a wet belch.
- Provides full coverage
- Quick to absorb
- Multi-purpose use
- Variety of colors to choose from
- Made from organic cotton
- Hypoallergenic
- Impressive range of designs
- Great value for money
- Soft and gentle on skin
- Environmentally friendly
- Cute, unconventional designs
- Very large size
Are Burp Cloths Necessary?
Roughly half of all babies spit up regularly (1). The other half might only spit up occasionally, but it is impossible to predict when it will happen.
When babies drink a lot of milk, pressure builds in their digestive tracts. The best way to release that pressure is by burping after feeding, but sometimes more than just air comes up.
Spit-up often leaves greasy stains due to the fat content in breast milk or formula. Plus, walking around with sour milk on your shirt isn’t exactly a great look (or smell).
While not technically a “requirement” for survival, burp cloths are a lifesaver. They prevent messy situations, especially if you have a “happy spitter.” Throw one over your shoulder or place it under your baby’s chin during feeding. The absorbent material catches the mess so you don’t have to change your outfit three times a day.
How Many Burp Cloths Do I Need?
Don’t skimp here. Burp cloths are generally affordable, and having a stack of them can save your wardrobe. One significant spit-up can soak a cloth instantly, so you always need backups.
We recommend keeping at least two or three in your diaper bag whenever you leave the house. If your baby spits up heavily, or if you are out for more than a few hours, pack a few extra. At home, you will want a stash of at least eight to ten cloths to avoid doing laundry daily.
10, 18 Is Ideal
When Should I Start Using Burp Cloths?
Have your stash ready before you bring your baby home. While some newborns don’t spit up much in the first few days, others start immediately.
Stocking up before birth ensures you are prepared. Spit-up isn’t something you can schedule, so being vigilant is key. Even if your baby isn’t a heavy spitter, these cloths are perfect for wiping milk dribbles or catching drool during tummy time.
How to Choose Burp Cloths
These cloths come in various fabrics, shapes, and sizes. Here is what to look for to get the most bang for your buck.
Size and Shape
As your baby grows, the volume of spit-up often increases. Longer burp cloths that drape fully over your shoulder (front and back) offer the best protection.
Also, consider the shape. Contoured or “kidney bean” shapes are designed to curve around your neck, staying in place better than standard rectangles. If you buy small cloths for a newborn, be prepared to size up as they get bigger.
Fabric
You will find endless colors and prints, but function must come first. The best burp cloths use highly absorbent fabrics like terry cloth, flannel, cotton muslin, or bamboo.
Avoid liquid-repelling fabrics like standard fleece unless it is used as a bottom barrier layer. If your family has sensitive skin, look for hypoallergenic or organic options to prevent irritation.
Durability
You want a cloth that can withstand repeated wash cycles. You will be washing these items constantly. Look for reinforced edges and pre-shrunk cotton to ensure they don’t unravel or shrink down to the size of a tissue after a month.
Affordability
Burp cloths range from $1 to $8 per piece. A basic set of six usually costs around $15 to $20. While handmade items or trendy prints cost more, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a functional product.
Extras
Some cloths feature pockets for pacifiers or snaps to convert them into bibs. Others have textured corners for teething. While these extras are fun, they aren’t necessary. The primary goal is absorption; everything else is just a bonus.
Product Reviews
After cleaning up countless messes, here are the burp cloths that actually saved our shirts.
Gerber Baby Flannel Burp Cloths
Best Patterned Burp Cloths
Gerber is a household name for a reason. These flannel cloths are sized to cover your shoulder, protecting your outfit from unexpected spit-up incidents. They come in a four-pack, making them a budget-friendly choice for parents stocking up.
We love the variety of patterns available. You can choose from florals, polka dots, stripes, hearts, or animals. They add a little fun to the messy business of burping.
Made from 100 percent cotton flannel, they are soft against a newborn’s skin and absorb liquid reasonably well. The edges are serged to prevent fraying, though you might notice some fading after many trips through the dryer.
Pros
- Durable, soft flannel fabric.
- Fun, varied patterns.
- Good absorbency for the price.
Cons
- Colors fade with repeated washing.
- Flannel absorbs slower than muslin or terry cloth.
Our Ratings
Gerber Prefold Gauze Diaper
Best Cloth Diaper Burp Cloths
Ask any experienced grandmother, and she will tell you: cloth diapers make the best burp cloths. These Gerber gauze prefolds are incredibly versatile.
Since they are designed to hold diaper messes, their absorbency is unmatched. The open weave sucks up moisture instantly and locks it away. The tri-fold design features extra layers in the center panel, which is exactly where you need the most protection on your shoulder.
At 11.5 by 16 inches, they are large enough to catch a projectile mess but fold down flat for your diaper bag. Plus, once your baby outgrows the spitting phase, these make excellent cleaning rags for around the house.
Pros
- Larger surface area than many competitors.
- Extremely durable and lint-free.
- Multipurpose (changing pad, cleaning rag).
- Very inexpensive per cloth.
Cons
- Not as soft as bamboo or muslin.
- Will shrink and crinkle in the wash (though this aids absorbency).
Our Ratings
Green Sprouts Muslin Burp Cloths
Best Organic Burp Cloths
Green Sprouts offers a contoured, hourglass-shaped cloth made from organic cotton. The shape is a major selling point, as it sits naturally around your neck rather than bunching up.
These are constructed with four absorbent layers of organic cotton muslin. This is a fantastic choice for parents trying to avoid conventional cotton that may be treated with pesticides or herbicides. They are hypoallergenic and feel gentle against sensitive cheeks.
At 11 by 22 inches, they offer great length, ensuring your back is protected even if the spit-up rolls over your shoulder.
Pros
- Available in various colors and prints.
- Fabric softens with use.
- Hourglass shape stays put on your shoulder.
Cons
- Expect significant shrinkage.
- Edges can fray over time.
Our Ratings
Copper Pearl Baby Burp Cloths
Best Large Burp Cloths
Copper Pearl has gained a massive following for their stylish prints and smart design. The outer layers are ultra-soft cotton, but the real magic is the center layer of fleece. This fleece acts as a barrier, preventing liquid from soaking through to your shirt.
They are generously sized at 21 by 10 inches and feature some of the trendiest patterns on the market. Whether you like florals, geometric shapes, or woodland creatures, there is a set for you.
Because they are so absorbent, they are perfect for “happy spitters” who tend to produce a lot of volume.
Pros
- Trendy, modern prints.
- Fleece layer prevents soak-through.
- Highly absorbent for heavy messes.
Cons
- Higher price point than basic options.
- Fleece can make them warm to wear in summer.
Our Ratings
Muslin Burp Cloths
Best Plain Burp Cloths
These Comfy Cubs burp cloths are simple, effective, and incredibly soft. They are made from six layers of 100 percent cotton muslin. Muslin is famous for its “crinkle” texture that increases surface area, allowing it to absorb liquid quickly.
Because they are plain white (or solid colors), they are easy to bleach if you encounter stubborn stains. They are also multifunctional; many moms use them as makeshift breastfeeding covers or changing pads in a pinch.
The 10 by 20-inch size provides ample coverage, and the pre-washed fabric feels broken-in right out of the box.
Pros
- Muslin absorbs quickly and dries fast.
- Six layers provide excellent thickness.
- Versatile and easy to bleach.
Cons
- May snag on velcro from bibs or diapers.
Our Ratings
Luvable Friends Flannel Burp Cloths
Best Budget Burp Cloths
If the price of boutique burp cloths makes you wince, Luvable Friends is the antidote. These are extremely affordable, meaning you can buy dozens and never worry about running out.
They come in a wide array of cute themes and colors. The construction features a three-layer center panel for absorption, with two-layer outer panels to reduce bulk.
While they aren’t the thickest options on the list, they get the job done for minor spit-ups and drool. They are a great “daycare” option where you don’t mind if one goes missing.
Pros
- Huge variety of designs.
- Unbeatable price.
- Soft cotton is gentle on skin.
Cons
- Chemical smell upon opening (requires washing first).
- Tends to pill after heavy usage.
Our Ratings
Milkbarn Bamboo Cotton Burp Cloths
Best Bamboo Burp Cloths
For those who love vintage aesthetics and premium fabrics, Milkbarn delivers. These are a blend of 70 percent bamboo rayon and 30 percent cotton. This combination creates a silky, cool-to-the-touch fabric that is also eco-friendly.
The prints are charmingly rustic, think hedgehogs, whales, and floral sprays in earthy tones. Each cloth is a generous 23-inch square, giving you blanket-like coverage.
They come packaged in a cute burlap wrapper, making them an excellent baby shower gift. While they are pricier, the quality and feel set them apart.
Pros
- Eco-friendly bamboo blend.
- Unique, vintage designs.
- Extra-large square shape.
Cons
- Thinner than multi-layer muslin options.
- Can feel a bit rougher if line-dried.
Our Ratings
How to Make Your Own Burp Cloths
You don’t need to be a professional seamstress to make DIY burp cloths. In fact, upcycling is a great way to save money.
If sewing isn’t your thing, you can simply repurpose household items. Old receiving blankets, cloth diapers, or even thick hand towels work perfectly. If you are handy with a needle, just hem the edges of your chosen fabric, and you are good to go.
FAQs
How Many Layers Should a Burp Cloth Be?
This depends on your baby’s spit-up volume. A standard cloth usually has two to three layers. However, for heavy spitters, we recommend cloths with four to six layers of muslin or a dedicated fleece backing to prevent soak-through.
How Often Should You Change a Burp Cloth?
Switch to a fresh cloth as soon as it gets damp or soiled. Wet cloths can harbor bacteria and smell terrible. Keep a rotation going and wash them frequently to prevent mold or permanent odors.
What Is the Best Fabric for Burp Cloths?
The most absorbent fabrics are cotton muslin, terry cloth, and flannel. Bamboo is excellent for softness and antibacterial properties, while polyester fleece is often used as a bottom layer to stop moisture from leaking through to your clothes.
How Do You Get Stains Out of Burp Cloths?
To remove breast milk or formula stains, rinse the cloth in cold water immediately (hot water sets protein stains). Pre-treat with an enzymatic cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water before tossing it in the washing machine.
