When you’re shopping for a burp cloth, you’ll want to consider the type of material to ensure it will catch anything baby spits up. Also, double check the size and quality so you’ll know it’ll fit perfectly over your shoulder while still keeping your clothes as safe as possible. We carefully considered design, material, value, washing instructions, ease of cleaning, and absorbency when reviewing products. Here are the best burp cloths on the market. There are snaps on this burp rag so you can fasten it around your baby’s neck and use it as a bib, too. Aden + Anais Burpy Bibs cost about $12 for one or about $20 for two. They come in several themes and colors as well. Price at time of publication: $25 Price at time of publication: $19 The breathable fabric is perfect for you and baby, and once you’re finished using it, you can simply throw it in the washing machine. The entire set comes with 6 cloths for less than $13, too. Price at time of publication: $20 Each cloth is approximately 17.5 x 8.5 inches and handmade in a contoured design to fit the shoulder comfortably. The flannel material helps the cloth from slipping during any burping time. Price at time of publication: $25 for Boy Set of 4 They come in a pack of 8, so you’ve got plenty for the day or however many you need. And they’re great at bath time as washcloths, too. Price at time of publication: $17 The gel packs can be used for more than just colic and fevers, too. Many parents and caregivers use them for teething pains, an upset stomach, bumps or bruises, and blocked milk ducts. Price at time of publication: $20 Expect a soft and luxurious feel to the cloths as they’re made from bamboo fabric and cotton. You’ll quickly realize just how much they’ll become a diaper bag staple. Price at time of publication: $20 Aside from their large size, these burp cloths also feature a specially designed absorbent layer. The middle layer is made with fleece to prevent any messes from soaking through. And, the burp cloths can easily be cleaned by simply tossing them in the washing machine and then tumble drying on low heat. Price at time of publication: $22 If you’re unsure of where to start, check out burp cloths made with cotton or bamboo first. These materials are extremely absorbent so any moisture they take in will keep you more dry in the long run. Because you never know how much baby will spit up, it’s vital to buy burp cloths made with an absorbent fabric.
Size
You want to ensure that a burp cloth is big enough to cover your shoulder (or anyone else’s who might be burping baby). Since not all burp cloths are the same size, you’ll want to double check before buying so you know you’ll be protected. Most burp cloths measure around 20 x 11 inches, which should be suitable for most parents. Some burp cloths even come in a contoured shape. These are designed to look more than like an hourglass than a rectangle, so you don’t have flaps of fabric hanging off the side of your shoulder.
Absorbency
While you want to keep yourself and your clothing dry, you also want baby to be comfortable during burping. A cloth that soaks up spit-up to keep it away from baby’s face feels better for them. Some burp cloths are made of multiple layers. These can help trap moisture inside the cloth, leaving the surfaces (that touch your clothing and your baby’s face) more clean and dry.
Durability
You’ll also want burp cloths that can withstand a lot of washing. Babies can be unpredictable, especially when it comes to spit-up, so you’ll be washing them often and want cloths that are machine washable and won’t be worn out after a few trips through the washer and dryer.
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Katrina Cossey has been a digital content producer and news and feature writer for more than six years. She has covered local and national news as well as writing and researching parenting topics. Katrina enjoyed burp cloths with an extra-large or contoured design. These prevented her from being messy herself during any spit-ups while still keeping her and baby comfortable.