How long can I keep breast milk in the fridge?

Understanding Breast Milk Storage in the Fridge
When it comes to storing breast milk, safety and freshness are paramount. For parents and caregivers, knowing how long breast milk can be kept in the refrigerator is essential for ensuring that infants receive the best nutrition without compromising their health.
Duration of Storage
Breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. However, for optimal freshness and quality, it is recommended to use the milk within 24 hours of refrigeration. This guideline helps to ensure that the milk retains its nutritional value and is safe for consumption .
Storage Conditions Matter
The effectiveness of breast milk storage largely depends on how it is stored. It is crucial to place the milk in the back of the fridge, where the temperature is most consistent and coldest, rather than in the door, which is subject to temperature fluctuations. Properly sealing the milk in a clean, airtight container can also help maintain its quality.
Signs of Spoilage
Parents should be vigilant about the signs of spoilage. If the milk smells sour or has an unusual appearance, it should not be fed to the baby. Always trust your senses; when in doubt, it’s better to discard the milk than risk the baby’s health.
Thawing and Reusing Frozen Milk
For those who choose to freeze breast milk for longer storage, it’s important to note that once frozen milk is thawed in the refrigerator, it should be used within 24 hours. Never refreeze thawed breast milk, as this can compromise its safety and nutritional quality.
Conclusion
In summary, breast milk can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, with a strong recommendation to use it within 24 hours for the best quality. By following these guidelines, parents can ensure that their little ones receive safe and nutritious breast milk.

How long is thawed breastmilk good for?

Using thawed breastmilk
Milk thawed in the refrigerator must be used within 24 hours. Milk thawed to room temperature or warmer should ideally be used in 1 to 2 hours. If your baby didn’t finish the bottle, the leftover breastmilk can still be used within 2 hours after the baby is done feeding.

Does pumping every 2 hours increase milk supply?

Pump more often, from both breasts
Many women wonder how often they should pump. A general guideline is to pump every three hours. But if you’re trying to produce more breast milk, you can: Try pumping both breasts for 15 minutes every two hours for 48-72 hours.

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.

Can I pump into the same bottle all day?

Milk stays good for 4 hours if you leave it at room temperature after pumping. So, you can pump into the same bottle within the 4 hours timeframe. Once the 4-hour timeframe has elapsed, you can either give the milk to your baby or store it in the fridge or freezer for future meals.

How long can breast milk stay in the fridge after pumping?

Refrigerator. Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the back of the refrigerator for up to four days in clean conditions. However, it’s optimal to use or freeze the milk within three days.

Can babies drink cold breast milk?

Breast milk does not need to be warmed. It can be served room temperature or cold.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for breast milk?

The ‘Rule of Three’ guideline suggests allowing the baby to nurse for at least three minutes on each breast to ensure they receive a balance of foremilk (initial, thirst-quenching milk) and hindmilk (higher-fat, calorie-rich milk).

Will pumping every 6 hours increase milk supply?

Pump more often, from both breasts
A general guideline is to pump every three hours. But if you’re trying to produce more breast milk, you can: Try pumping both breasts for 15 minutes every two hours for 48-72 hours. Then, go back to your normal pumping routine.

What is the 6 6 6 rule for breast milk?

Rule #2: The Breast Milk Storage Guidelines.
Or the 6-6-6 rule. Basically, breast milk is good at room temperature for 4 or 6 hours, in the refrigerator for 4 or 6 days, and in the freezer for 4 or 6 or 12 months.

Can I mix breast milk from two different days?

The International Milk League and Alba Lactancia Materna mention that if you can mix breast milk from other days or sessions. As long as both milks are at the same temperature and that the mixture is used within 24 hours.