Article: What actually helps a windy baby (and what doesn’t)

What actually helps a windy baby (and what doesn’t)
If you’ve ever had a windy, unsettled baby…
you’ll know how overwhelming it can feel.
The crying that comes out of nowhere
The wriggling, arching, pulling legs in
The feeling of “something isn’t right”
And the hardest part?
Not knowing what will actually help.
First — you’re not doing anything wrong
Wind, gas and unsettled tummies are incredibly common in newborns.
Their digestive systems are still developing, and small things like feeding, air intake, or sensitivity can leave them feeling uncomfortable.
But while it’s common…
that doesn’t make it any easier to watch.
What actually helps a windy baby
1. Gentle tummy support
Things like:
- Holding baby upright after feeds
- Gentle burping (without forcing it)
- Light tummy massage
These can help move trapped air through their system.
Small, consistent support is more effective than trying to “fix it” all at once.
2. Calm, regulated feeding
Whether breastfeeding or bottle feeding, babies can take in extra air when they’re:
- Feeding too quickly
- Very unsettled before feeds
- Struggling to latch
Slowing things down, keeping baby calm, and ensuring a good latch can make a big difference.
3. Supporting mum’s diet (if breastfeeding)
This is often overlooked.
What you consume can sometimes impact baby’s digestion — especially in those early weeks.
Gentle, breastfeeding-safe herbs and ingredients designed to support digestion can help create a calmer feeding experience for both of you.
4. Creating calm (for both of you)
When baby is uncomfortable, everything can feel heightened.
Soft lighting
Skin-to-skin
Warm baths
Gentle movement
These don’t “fix” wind instantly — but they help regulate baby’s nervous system, which can reduce distress.
What doesn’t always help (but is often suggested)
Over-stimulation
Trying too many things at once — bouncing, rocking, feeding, changing — can actually make things worse.
Windy babies often need less, not more.
Forcing burps
Not every baby will burp on cue.
Forcing it can lead to more discomfort and frustration (for both of you).
Quick-fix expectations
There’s rarely one single solution.
- Wind and colic tend to improve with:
- consistency
- gentle support
- time
Ignoring your own wellbeing
This is the one no one talks about.
A windy baby affects you too.
The stress, the lack of sleep, the constant worry — it all builds.
Supporting yourself during this time is just as important.
A gentle approach that supports both of you
At The Breastfeeding Tea Co., we believe in supporting both mum and baby through this stage.
Our Colic Tea is designed with breastfeeding-safe herbs traditionally used to support digestion and help settle windy babies — while also creating a calming daily ritual for you.
Because sometimes, it’s not about a quick fix…
It’s about creating small moments of support that help everything feel a little easier.
Final thoughts
If your baby is windy, unsettled, or going through a difficult phase — you are not alone.
And you are doing an incredible job.
Sometimes, the smallest changes — and the gentlest support — can make the biggest difference.
