Breast Milk Storage
Many women choose to pump and store human milk because it is easy and safe. Some women store their milk for a rainy day and others store it because they have to go back to work or school. Whatever your reason for wanting to store your breast milk the tips here will help you along the way.
Do’s |
Don'ts |
|
× Do not defrost in the microwave × Do not add fresh milk to already frozen milk × Do not save milk from a used bottle × Do not refreeze previously thawed milk |
Milk location |
Temperature |
How long will it last |
Additional Information |
On table or counter |
Room Temperature (up to 77⁰F or 25⁰C) |
6-8 hours |
Keep containers covered and out of direct sunlight |
Insulated bag or cooler |
5 to 39⁰F or -15 to 4⁰C |
24 hours |
Use more than one ice pack in larger bags and keep containers in contact with ice packs. Limit opening cooler bag |
Refrigerator |
39⁰F or 4⁰C |
5 days |
Store milk in back of refrigerator. If milk is close to the door the temperature will change too much |
Small Freezer located inside Refrigerator |
5⁰F or -15⁰C |
2 weeks |
Store in back of freezer compartment |
Freezer compartment with separate door in refrigerator |
0⁰F or 18⁰C |
3-6 months |
Store in back where temperature is more constant |
Deep Freezer or separate Freezer Chest |
-4⁰F or -20⁰C |
6-12 months |
Milk stored for longer ranges listed is safe, some fats may lose some of it’s quality |
Adapted with Permission from the Foundation for a Breastfeeding Culture