Storing breast milk is something many moms ask about, here are some quick guidelines to help you get started. Breast milk can be expressed and stored for later use.
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Storing Breast Milk
Do not refreeze breast milk and make sure to refrigerate fresh milk before adding it to thawed milk. Date the container before storing it.
Containers suitable for storing breast milk:
- Freezer milk bags designed for human milk
- Glass or hard-sided plastic containers with well fitted tops (no BPA)
Containers must be washed in hot, soapy water, rinsed and air dried before use. Always remember to wash your hands before expressing.
Only put 60-120ml in a container to avoid waste (the amount your baby is likely to eat at one feed).
How Long Can Breast Milk Be Stored?
- 4 hours at room temperature
- 72 hrs in the refrigerator
- 6 months frozen
- Previously frozen milk can be kept for 24 hours in the refrigerator
How To Warm Breast Milk
Frozen milk can be thawed by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or under running water. Gradually increase the temperature of the water to warm it.
Refrigerated milk can be warmed under running water or by putting the container in a bowl of warm water.
Do not microwave breast milk or bring to boiling point.
Breast milk might separate into a milk layer and a cream layer when stored, this is normal – just swirl it gently to mix it before feeding to your baby.
Do you store your breast milk? Do you have any other tips for storing breast milk?