The Best Way to Store Breast Milk

Wondering about the best way to store breast milk? You’re not alone! As a new mom or a seasoned pro, understanding the ins and outs of breast milk storage is crucial for your baby’s health. Let’s dive into the details and answer those burning questions.

What is the best way to store breast milk?

According to the CDC, the best way to store breast milk is in clean food-grade containers that are specifically designed for human milk storage. Make sure the containers have tight fitting lids and are made of glass or plastic.

Make sure you wash your hands before pumping or handling breast milk that you plan on storing. Use clean plastic bottle liners or glass bottles.

It’s best to store breast milk in the back of a fridge, where the temperature is coolest. If you don’t plan on using the milk within 4 days, freeze it right away. If you don’t have access to a fridge or freezer, keep it in an insulated cooler with ice packs.

Is it better to store breast milk in bags or bottles?

Well, both bags and bottles have their perks. Bags are space-efficient and easy to freeze, while bottles are sturdy and can be reused. The choice is yours, mama!

For long-term storage (freezing), bags are your best option. For short-term storage in the refrigerator, glass bottles are a good option.

Never store breast milk in plastic bags or bottles that are not intended for storing breast milk and avoid bottles with the recycle number 7, which means it may contain BPA-containing plastic.

Does breast milk need to be refrigerated?

Yes, just like other types of animal milk, breast milk should be refrigerated if it’s not going to be used immediately. The CDC recommends storing breast milk in the back of the refrigerator, where it’s coldest. This helps maintain the milk’s quality and keeps harmful bacteria at bay.

However, freshly expressed breast milk can be left at room temperature for up to 4 hours (ideally less if the room is warm).

Can you freeze breast milk? 

Freezing breast milk is a fantastic option for moms who want to build a stash or return to work. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to freeze breast milk:

1. Wash Hands: Wash your hands well with soap and water.
2. Choose clean containers: Use clean containers specifically designed for breast milk storage, such as breast milk storage bags or BPA-free plastic bottles.
3. Label with date: Label each container with the date you expressed the milk.
4. Freeze small portions: Freeze in small amounts (2-4 ounces) to avoid waste.
5. Cool in fridge first: Let the milk cool in the fridge before freezing.
6. Pour and leave space: Pour milk into containers. Leave some space (about one inch) at the top of the container as breast milk expands when frozen.
7. Remove air from bags (if using): If using bags, squeeze out extra air before sealing.
8. Seal tightly: Seal containers or bags securely to prevent leaks.
9. Freeze quickly: Put containers in the back of the freezer for quick freezing.

How to thaw breast milk

Always thaw the oldest milk first so it’s not left in the freezer for too long. There are a few ways to safely thaw breast milk:

• Refrigerator thawing: Thawing breast milk is not a last-minute task. Plan ahead and transfer the frozen milk to the refrigerator the night before you intend to use it.
• Warm water bath: If you need to thaw breast milk quickly, you can use a warm or lukewarm water bath or running lukewarm water.
• Never use the microwave: Avoid using the microwave to thaw breast milk, as it can create hot spots that may damage the milk’s nutrients and increase the risk of burns to your baby.
• Gentle swirling: After thawing, gently swirl the container to mix the milk.
• Use thawed milk promptly: Once breast milk is thawed, use it within 24 hours. And here’s a golden rule, and I can’t stress this enough: NEVER refreeze human milk after it has been thawed.

How long does breast milk last?

Freshly pumped milk is like a ticking clock. The general rule is to use breast milk within four hours if it’s at room temperature, four days in the fridge, and 12 months in the freezer, but 6 months is best. Be diligent with labeling to keep track of those dates!

How to spot spoiled breast milk

Imagine opening the fridge, reaching for that carefully pumped milk, and… yikes! Spotting spoiled breast milk is crucial to ensure your baby gets the best nourishment. Check for off-putting odors, changes in consistency, and always trust your instincts. Note that it’s normal for breast milk to change color slightly, depending on your diet.

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