Breast milk storage is an essential aspect of breastfeeding, allowing you to provide your baby with your milk even when you’re not present. Proper storage helps maintain the quality and safety of breast milk. Here’s a comprehensive guide to breast milk storage:
Expressing Breast Milk:
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- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before expressing breast milk.
- Use clean and sterilized breast milk collection bottles, breast pumps, or storage bags specifically designed for storing breast milk.
- Follow the instructions provided with your breast pump for correct usage.
- If using storage bags, ensure they are BPA-free and have a strong seal to prevent leaks.
- Label each container or bag with the date and time of expression.
Room Temperature Storage:
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- Freshly expressed breast milk can be kept at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for up to 4 hours.
- If the room is warm (above 77°F or 25°C), refrigerate the milk within 1 hour.
Refrigeration:
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- Breast milk can be stored in the back of the refrigerator (not the refrigerator door) at a temperature of 39°F (4°C) or lower.
- Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Place the breast milk in airtight containers or storage bags and avoid overfilling to allow for expansion.
- Keep the breast milk away from raw meats, eggs, and other potential sources of contamination.
Freezing:
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- If you need to store breast milk for longer periods, freezing is an option.
- Use airtight, leak-proof storage bags or containers specifically designed for freezing breast milk.
- Leave some space at the top of the bag or container as breast milk expands when frozen.
- Freeze breast milk as soon as possible after expressing.
- In a standard freezer compartment (with a separate door), breast milk can be stored for up to 6 months.
- In a deep freezer (-4°F or -20°C), breast milk can be stored for up to 12 months.
- Label the bags or containers with the date of expression and use the oldest milk first.
Thawing and Using Frozen Milk:
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- To thaw frozen breast milk, transfer the container to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.
- Alternatively, you can place the container in a bowl of warm water or use a bottle warmer set to a gentle heat.
- Do not use a microwave to thaw or heat breast milk, as it can create hot spots and destroy some of the milk’s beneficial properties.
- Gently swirl the milk to mix the separated layers of fat before feeding it to your baby.
- Use thawed milk within 24 hours and never refreeze thawed milk.
Tips and Reminders:
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- Always wash your hands before handling breast milk and use clean storage containers or bags.
- Keep breast milk away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and strong odors.
- Do not add fresh milk to already frozen milk.
- If you’re unsure about the safety or quality of stored breast milk, trust your instincts and discard it.
- If your baby attends daycare, inform them about proper handling and storage guidelines for breast milk.
Remember, individual circumstances may vary, so consult with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant for personalized advice regarding breast milk storage.
Here are some frequently asked questions about storing breast milk:
Can you reheat breast milk?
Yes, you can reheat breast milk, but it’s important to do so carefully to preserve its nutritional and immune-boosting properties. The recommended method is to place the container of breast milk in a bowl of warm water or use a bottle warmer to gently warm it. Avoid using a microwave, as it can create hot spots that may harm your baby and can break down beneficial components of the milk.
Can warmed breast milk be refrigerated again?
It is generally not recommended to refrigerate warmed breast milk again after it has been heated. Once breast milk has been warmed to a safe temperature for feeding, any leftover milk should be discarded within one to two hours after the feeding has ended. Refrigerating the milk again after it has been warmed can promote bacterial growth and increase the risk of contamination.
Can you mix breast milk and formula?
Yes, you can mix breast milk and formula if needed. However, it’s important to follow the proper guidelines for preparing formula, as directed by the formula manufacturer. Mixing breast milk and formula in the same bottle should be done according to the recommended proportions specified by your healthcare provider or the formula instructions. Keep in mind that breast milk and formula have different nutrient compositions, so it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before combining them.
How to store breast milk?
To store breast milk properly, follow these guidelines:
- Use clean and sterilized containers or breast milk storage bags.
- Label each container with the date of expression.
- Store freshly expressed breast milk in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible.
- Place the milk in airtight containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion when freezing.
- Store breast milk in the back of the refrigerator or freezer where the temperature is more consistent.
- Avoid storing breast milk in the refrigerator door, as it experiences temperature fluctuations.
- If storing in the freezer, ensure it is set at or below -4°F (-20°C).
How long is breast milk good in the fridge?
The storage time for breast milk in the fridge depends on various factors, such as the temperature of the fridge and the freshness of the milk when it was expressed. As a general guideline:
- Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days at a temperature of 39°F (4°C) or lower.
- If you have previously frozen breast milk and thawed it in the refrigerator, it is best to use it within 24 hours.
Always remember to smell and visually inspect the breast milk before feeding it to your baby. If it has an off smell or appears to have separated or clumped, it’s advisable to discard it to ensure your baby’s safety.
To know more about storage bag please read this article about breast milk storage bags.