Storing, Preserving and Using Breast Milk

Storage

• It is safe to store breast milk in either plastic or glass bottles, with sealable tops, or in sterile sealable bags. If you prefer plastic look to ensure they are BPA free.
• In order to prevent any waste, store breast milk in amounts equal to your baby’s feedings. If your baby east 4 ounces at a time, store 4 ounces per container.

Storage Location

• In order to be saved, breast milk must be stored in a cool place – a cooler or refrigerator for short durations or a freezer for longer periods of time. 

Storage Durations - Breast milk can safely be stored:

• At room temperature (less than 77 degrees F for up to 6 hours.
• In cooler bags with ice packs for up to 24 hours.
• At the back of a refrigerator for 3 to 8 days.
• At the back of a freezer for up to 6 months. 

Before Serving

• It is also normal for breast milk to separate (the fatty part of the milk goes to the top). Shake the bottle or sealed bag, and the fat will go back into the milk.

Thawing Frozen Breast Milk

• Thaw the milk slowly by swirling the container of milk in warm water or by putting the container in the refrigerator the day before it is to be used.
• Don't use hot water to thaw breast milk.
• Never thaw frozen breast milk in a microwave oven. The milk could get too hot and burn your baby's mouth. Microwaving can also damage valuable proteins in breast milk. Thawed breast milk can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours, but it should not be refrozen. 

*This blog is informed by our resident moms-in-the-know and not by medical professionals. This blog is intended to share the wisdom of experienced moms but never to replace the advice and insight of your doctors. Always consult proper and licensed medical professionals when making any decisions about your health and the health of your children. 

Source

Returning to Work While Breastfeeding by Frances Biagioli, M.D. (American Family Physician December 01, 2003, http://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/1201/p2201.html)