Storing Breastmilk

Here’s our condensed guide to storing breast milk. We hope it covers all the basics and any common questions and concerns. Bookmark for later use!

HOW LONG DOES IT STORE?

Room temp………………………. 4-6 hours
Insulated cool bag…………….. 24 hours
Refrigerator………………………. 4-5 days
Freezer section of fridge…….. 2 weeks
Freezer……………………………… 3-6 months

WHAT ABOUT STORAGE CONTAINERS?

Ensure any plastic containers are BPA free.
Wash all storage containers (except new breast milk storage bags which are already sterile) in dishwasher or in hot soapy water.
If storing in plastic bags ensure these are ones suitable for breast milk storage.
Unless stated otherwise do not reuse plastic milk storage bags.
Leave space (preferably 1 inch) in all containers after adding breast milk.

HOW DO I THAW/ WARM THE MILK?

You can thaw frozen milk in the fridge or by placing in a bowl of warm water.
Referigerated milk is best also warmed up in a bowl of warm water if necessary.

CAN YOU…?

Mix fresh pumped milk with refrigerated milk?

Yes but ensure the freshly pumped milk is also refrigerated first before mixing.

Refreeze thawed milk?

There is limited research on safety of refreezing thawed milk so it is suggested to refrigerate and use milk within 24 hours.

Refrigerate a bottle of half drunk milk?

Yes, but only keep for another 1-2 hours due to bacteria that may have entered the milk.

WHY DOES?

Some thawed milk smell weird?

If it has been stored correctly it is likely due to high lipase content. This can make the milk smell soapy or off. Scalding milk may remove the taste and odour but some reduction in nutritional content will occur.

My milk separate?

This is simply due to fat content in your milk. Give your milk a shake and it will return to normal.

OTHER TIPS

  • Store milk in smaller quantities to avoid waste.
  • Always date your milk on day of pumping.
  • Try scalding milk if baby does not like the smell or taste of thawed milk due to high lipase content.
  • Consider donating to a milk bank if you find you are in over supply!

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