A Guide to Storing Breast Milk

Hi! I’m Juana, an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), and I want to share some tips about a topic that is crucial for many of you: storing human milk. Whether you're returning to work, want to exclusively pump and bottle feed, or just want to be prepared, knowing how to safely store your milk can give you peace of mind and flexibility.

Understanding Human Milk Storage

First off, let's understand why proper storage is crucial. Breast milk is full of live cells and antibodies that protect your baby. Storing it correctly means those wonderful benefits are preserved for when your baby needs them.

Expressing and Storing: The Basics

Expressing Milk: You can express milk by hand or with a breast pump. Do what feels most comfortable and efficient for you.
Storage Containers: Use clean, food-grade containers like hard plastic bottles or breast milk storage bags. Glass bottles are fine too but handle them carefully.

How Long Can You Store Breast Milk?

The storage duration varies based on where you store it:

Room Temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C): Ideal for milk that will be used within 4 hours.
Refrigerator (39°F or 4°C): Store here if you'll use the milk within 4 days. Keep it away from the door where the temperature is more stable.
Freezer (0°F or -18°C): For longer storage, breast milk can be frozen for 6 months – best quality – but is safe up to 12 months.

Tips for Successful Storage

Cool Freshly Pumped Milk: If adding to an existing stash, cool new milk before mixing.
Leave Space for Expansion: In the freezer, leave some space at the top of the container as milk expands when frozen.
Label with Dates: Always label your milk with the date it was expressed.
Thawing Milk: Thaw frozen milk in the refrigerator or a bowl of warm water. Do not refreeze thawed milk.

Using Stored Milk

Gently Swirl, Don’t Shake: Swirl the milk gently to mix the fat layer that may have separated.
Test the Temperature: Ensure the milk is at body temperature before feeding.
Avoid Microwaving: Microwaving can create hot spots and damage the milk’s nutrients.

Common Questions Answered

Can I add fresh milk to already cooled milk? Yes, but cool the new milk first.
What if my baby doesn't finish the bottle? Offer it at the next feeding. If not finished, discard it to avoid bacterial growth.
Does freezing affect the milk? Freezing can slightly reduce some nutrients, it remains a highly nutritious and beneficial option for feeding your baby.

Storing breast milk might initially seem overwhelming, but with these tips, you'll become a pro in no time. Your dedication to providing the best for your baby is admirable, and remember, I’m here to support you on this journey. Feel free to reach out with any questions or for personalized advice! Happy feeding!