Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » How long can breastmilk stay out before refrigeration?

How long can breastmilk stay out before refrigeration?

Understanding Breast Milk Storage Guidelines
Breastfeeding mothers often have questions about the safe storage of breast milk, particularly regarding how long it can remain at room temperature before it needs to be refrigerated. This is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of the baby while also maximizing the use of expressed milk.
Room Temperature Storage
Freshly expressed breast milk can safely sit at room temperature, which is typically around 77°F (25°C), for up to four hours. It is recommended that the milk be stored in a covered container to maintain its quality and prevent contamination. This timeframe allows mothers some flexibility, especially when they are on the go or unable to refrigerate the milk immediately.
However, if the milk has been left out for more than two hours, it is advisable to discard any remaining milk that was not consumed. This precaution helps to minimize the risk of bacterial growth, which can occur when milk is left at room temperature for extended periods.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Once breast milk is placed in the refrigerator, it can be stored for up to four days at a temperature of 40°F (4°C). This extended storage time is beneficial for mothers who express milk in advance, allowing them to have a supply ready for feeding without compromising safety.
It’s important to note that any milk that has been warmed or left out should be used within two hours if not consumed. If it is quickly refrigerated after a feeding, it can still be used later, but the same two-hour rule applies to ensure safety.
Conclusion
In summary, freshly expressed breast milk can remain at room temperature for up to four hours, while refrigerated milk can last for four days. Adhering to these guidelines is essential for maintaining the quality of breast milk and ensuring the health of the baby. By following these recommendations, mothers can confidently manage their breast milk storage and feeding routines.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

What happens if a baby drinks spoiled breast milk?

They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever.

What happens to breast milk after 4 hours at room temperature?

Bottom line. It’s best to chill, refrigerate, or freeze breast milk immediately after it’s expressed. If expressed milk is left out unrefrigerated, but it’s in a clean, covered container, it can sit at room temperature for between four and six hours. Milk that has been left out for longer should be thrown away.

How to know if breastmilk is spoiled?

It will also smell bad, much like spoiled cow’s milk. And, like spoiled cow’s milk, breast milk that’s old will taste sour. (It’s fine to taste your breast milk to check!) Always label your pumped milk with a time and date so you can tell how old it is.

Can I put breastmilk in the fridge after 4 hours?

Freshly expressed breast milk can be kept at room temperature for up to six hours. However, it’s optimal to use or properly store the breast milk within four hours, especially if the room is warm.

What happens if you don’t pump for 8 hours?

If you don’t pump or breastfeed for 8 hours, you may experience breast engorgement or some discomfort. If you’re exclusively pumping or you’re away from your baby for a period of time, it’s recommended to pump as frequently as your baby would feed to avoid discomfort and maintain milk supply.

Can I put breast milk back in the fridge after being out?

Don’t put leftover breast milk back in the fridge to use later or refreeze it. It’s important to follow safety guidelines for breast milk because bacteria can grow in it if you leave it out for too long.

How long can breast milk sit out before refrigerating?

Freshly expressed or pumped milk can be stored: At room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. In the refrigerator for up to 4 days. In the freezer for about 6 months is best; up to 12 months is acceptable.

What is the 2 hour rule for breast milk?

If your baby did not finish the bottle, leftover milk should be used within 2 hours. Wash disassembled pump and feeding parts in a clean basin with soap and water. Do not wash directly in the sink because the germs in the sink could contaminate items.

Is breastmilk good at room temp for 5 hours?

Freshly expressed milk can remain at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for up to 4 hours, or up 6 to 8 hours if very cleanly expressed; however, it is best to chill as soon as possible.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment