Breast milk is a nutritional goldmine for babies, providing essential nutrients and antibodies that help protect them from illness. For working mothers or those with fluctuating milk supply, storing breast milk ensures you have a consistent supply of breast milk for your little one, even when direct breastfeeding isn't possible.
Breast Milk Storage Times
Before we dive into the different storage options for breast milk, it’s important to know how long you can store freshly expressed, thawed, and leftover breast milk. Here are the recommended breast milk storage times and guidelines for each type of breast milk:
- Freshly Expressed Breast Milk
- 25-37°C - up to 4 hours
- 15-25°C - up to 8 hours
- Below 15°C - up to 24 hours
- Refrigerated Milk
- 0-4°C - up to 8 days
- Breast Milk from Freezer
- 1-door refrigerator - up to 2 weeks
- 2-door refrigerator - up to 3 months
- Deep freezer - up to 6 months
- Thawed Breast Milk: Thawed breast milk should be used within 24 hours if refrigerated and should not be refrozen.
- Leftover Breast Milk from a Feeding: Breast milk that has been partially consumed should be used within 1 hour after the baby has finished feeding.
It's important to label breast milk freezer storage bags with the date it was expressed and to use the oldest milk first to maintain proper rotation.
By following these breast milk storage guidelines, you can ensure that your baby receives the best quality milk while minimizing the risk of contamination.
Where to Store Breast Milk
Choosing the right breastfeeding accessory to properly store breast milk is crucial for preserving its quality. Here are some popular options:
1. Breast Milk Storage Bags
Breast milk storage pouches are designed specifically for freezing milk, making them a great option for moms who need a large amount of milk storage. They are flat, space-saving, and easy to label.
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2. Storage Cups
Reusable breast milk storage cups are a good choice for moms who want to reduce waste. They can be easily cleaned and labeled.
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Read more: For New Moms: Guide to Breast Pumps
How to Freeze Breast Milk
Storing breast milk in the freezer is a good way for moms to have a supply of milk for future use. It is also a great way to extend breast milk storage life without compromising its nutritional value. Here's how to freeze breast milk properly:
- Flat Storage: For convenient freezer storage, place and organize breast milk bags flat to save space and allow for quicker thawing.
- Avoid Overfilling: Breast milk expands when frozen, so leaving about an inch of room in each storage bag or bottle prevents leakage or bursts.
- Follow the Recommended Freezer Temperature: Breast milk can be stored in a freezer set at -18°C or lower and last for about six months. In a deep freezer, it can be safely stored for up to 12 months.
Thawing Breast Milk: Do’s and Don’ts
It is essential to follow safe thawing steps for frozen breast milk to keep its nutritional value and prevent germs from growing. Here are the recommended methods for thawing breast milk:
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Refrigerator Thawing
Move the frozen breastmilk from the freezer to the refrigerator. It takes approximately 12 to 24 hours for the milk to thaw completely.
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Warm Water Thawing
Place the sealed breast milk reusable storage bags in a bowl filled with warm water or running warm water. Gently swirl the bowl to distribute the temperature evenly and avoid shaking too much to prevent disrupting the delicate milk proteins.
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Breast Milk Warmer
A breast milk warmer is a fast and convenient option for thawing frozen breast milk. Simply follow the manufacturer's instructions to gently thaw the milk.
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Important Thawing Tip:
Avoid microwaving, as it creates hot spots and degrades antibodies. Boiling also damages essential nutrients. Thawed milk should be used within 24 hours and never refreeze. Discard any leftover milk after feeding to prevent spoilage.
The Takeaway
By storing breast milk properly, babies can continue to benefit from its rich composition even when direct breastfeeding is not possible. It ensures they receive essential nutrients and antibodies found in breast milk, supporting their growth and overall well-being.
Baby Company is your trusted partner in caring for your precious little one. Our selection of breast milk containers, bags, and bottles is designed to ensure that your baby's milk stays fresh and safe. Whether you're looking for convenient storage solutions or feeding essentials, Baby Company has everything you need for a successful breastfeeding journey!
Visit the nearest Baby Company stores or explore our online selection to find the perfect products to support you and your baby's needs.