In this article, we discuss the difference between baby burping cloths and similar products. These are;
- Washcloths
- Bibs
- Receiving Blankets
- Muslin Cloths
- Towels
For each of these we compare the following;
- Use
- Size
- Price
- Materials
Washcloths v’s Burping Cloths
Although many people compare these to each other, they are very different.
Use – The washcloth’s primary use is to clean your baby’s skin. Especially during bath time. While the spit-up cloth is to cover your clothes to avoid you getting dirty.
Size – They are square in shape and smaller than spit-up rags. Our washcloths measure 17cm x 17cm. While our burp pad size is 45cm long and 22cm at its widest part.
Price – Although the price varies between brands you will find washcloths are cheaper. A single one from us is $9.95 while a spit-up pad is $19.95
Materials -The reason many people compare the two is that the materials are similar. We use the same fabric on both these items. This is a cotton bamboo mix material.
Bibs v’s Burping Cloths
People get confused by bibs and burp rags. Many people think they are the same but they are completely different.
Use – Bibs are placed around a baby’s neck. And are designed to capture spit-ups and drool. While cloths are placed over your shoulder to stop spit-ups falling on you. Note – Be sure to read our bib safety article when using our bibs.
Size – Bibs come in a range of sizes. But burping pads are larger. This is because babies can do large vomits. Especially when being burped.
Price – Bibs are cheaper than spit-up pads. This is because pads need more fabric and take longer to make. Our bibs cost between $17.95 to $18.95. While the pads are $19.95
Materials – The materials we use in both these are the exact same. The front is a cotton material. While the backing is a cotton and bamboo mix.
Receiving Blankets v’s Burping Cloths
A receiving blanket is the staple of a newborn nursery. And is often confused with a cloth.
Use – They have many uses including wrapping your newborn. Draping over a pram for shade. And covering your clothes when burping.
Size – Receiving blankets are much larger in size than spit-up pads. Measuring 115cm x 155cm. But once you fold them in thirds they become similar in size.
Price – The price differs per brand. But in general, you can expect to pay the same for a receiving blanket as a pad. Around $20 each.
Materials – The fabric can differ between brands. But most receiving blankets are made from light cotton fabric. While our burping rags are made from a cotton and bamboo mix.
Muslin Cloth v’s Burping Cloths
Muslin can mean many things. But in this instance, we compare muslin cloths which are small square pieces of material.
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. Roughly half the size. They are not ideal for burping but if needed can be used as an alternative to get by.
Price – Muslin squares come in a pack of 3 and cost $25.99 per pack. While our spit-up pads cost $19.95 each.
Materials – Muslin squares are made from Muslin fabric. This is a plain woven cotton fabric. While our pads are made from a mix of cotton and bamboo.
Towels v’s Burping Cloths
The two products are very similar. And they are interchangeable.
Use – Towels are used to dry a baby. And burping rags can be used as an alternative. Likewise, a towel can be used as a spit-up pad. To learn other uses for spit-up pads read this article.
Size -Towels are bigger than cloths. Our baby hooded towel measures 85cm x 85cm. While the burping pad is 45cm x 22cm. But the size of a spit-up pad would be suitable to use as a towel for a newborn baby.
Price – It will depend on what towel you buy. For instance, you can get cheap ones from a department store. While our hooded towel is $55.95 and the spit-up cloth is $19.95. Making the towel 3 times as much. So you may want to buy more burping rags instead.
Materials – Similar materials are used for both products. Flannel, cotton and bamboo are typical fabrics used for these. So your baby won’t feel much of a difference.
I hope these comparisons between burping rags and other products have been helpful. If you have any questions please contact me.
This article was written by Luisa Figueroa. She is the designer and maker of the My Little Love Heart range of burp rags.