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How long does it take to thaw breast milk from the refrigerator?

Thawing Breast Milk: A Guide for Parents
Thawing breast milk is an essential skill for breastfeeding parents, especially those who need to store milk for later use. Understanding the best methods and timelines for thawing can ensure that your baby receives safe and nutritious milk.
Refrigerator Thawing: The Safest Method
The most recommended way to thaw breast milk is by placing it in the refrigerator. This method is not only safe but also helps maintain the quality of the milk. When thawed in the refrigerator, breast milk can take up to 12 hours to fully defrost. Therefore, it’s advisable to plan ahead and take out the milk the night before you need it, allowing it to thaw gradually and safely overnight.
Alternative Thawing Methods
If you need to thaw breast milk more quickly, there are other methods available:
1. Warm Water Bath: Placing the sealed container of breast milk in a bowl of warm or lukewarm water can expedite the thawing process. This method typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the volume of milk.
2. Running Water: Another quick option is to hold the container under lukewarm running water. This method can also thaw the milk in approximately 30 minutes.
It’s important to note that while these methods are effective, they should be used with caution to avoid overheating the milk, which can destroy some of its beneficial properties.
Safety Considerations
Once breast milk is thawed, it should be used within 24 hours if kept in the refrigerator. If you choose to warm the milk after thawing, it should be consumed within 2 hours to ensure safety. Additionally, never refreeze thawed breast milk, as this can compromise its quality and safety.
In conclusion, while thawing breast milk can take time, especially in the refrigerator, planning ahead can make the process seamless. By using the appropriate methods and adhering to safety guidelines, parents can ensure their little ones receive the best nutrition possible.

How long does it take to thaw breast milk out of the fridge?

Breast milk can be defrosted in the fridge, normally in around 12 hours. Alternatively, hold the bottle or bag of frozen milk under warm running water (a maximum of 37 °C or 99 °F). Don’t leave frozen breast milk to defrost at room temperature.

How long does it take to unfreeze milk?

It is best to freeze milk in its original container, an airtight BPA-free container, or in tempered glass jars or bottles. Placing it at the back of the freezer will ensure its temperature remains constant. To thaw milk, a person should leave it in the fridge for 24–36 hours.

Why can’t you use thawed breast milk after 24 hours?

Sadly, breast milk must be used within 24 hours of thawing, and it can never be refrozen. The milk is high in sugar and bacteria — left out, the milk becomes a bacteria soup. It could give the baby life-threatening diarrhea.

How long can breastmilk sit out after thawed?

If the milk has been previously frozen, once thawed, it can sit out at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. If thawed milk is put in the refrigerator, use within 24 hours. Do not re-freeze previously frozen breast milk. If the baby didn’t finish the bottle, discard the milk after 2 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.

How long can you leave breast milk out after being in the fridge?

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 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

Can I thaw breast milk in a bottle warmer?

Do not thaw breast milk in a pot on the stove, in a bottle warmer or in the microwave. It could make the milk too hot for your baby to drink or create “hot spots” in the milk. Never refreeze breast milk that has already been thawed. During storage or thawing, the cream may separate and rise to the top of the milk.

How long is breast milk good for after taking out of the fridge?

Once you’ve taken breast milk out of the fridge or freezer and either warmed it up or allowed it to come to room temperature, use it within 2 hours. It’s not safe to use breast milk that’s been left out longer than that, and you should get rid of it if it has.

Can babies drink cold breast milk?

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

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.

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