How to properly store breastmilk in bags?

Proper Storage of Breastmilk in Bags
Storing breastmilk correctly is crucial for ensuring its safety and nutritional quality for your baby. With the increasing popularity of breastmilk storage bags, understanding how to use them effectively can make a significant difference for nursing mothers. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly store breastmilk in bags.
Choosing the Right Storage Bags
When selecting breastmilk storage bags, it’s essential to choose high-quality, BPA-free options specifically designed for this purpose. These bags are typically thicker than regular plastic bags, which helps prevent leaks and protects the milk from freezer burn. Avoid using standard Ziploc bags, as they are not designed for breastmilk storage and may leak or compromise the milk’s quality.
Preparing for Storage
Before filling the bags, ensure that your hands are clean and that the bags are sterile. This can be achieved by washing your hands thoroughly and using bags that are pre-sterilized. It’s also advisable to pump breastmilk into a clean container first, allowing you to pour it into the storage bags without contamination.
Filling the Bags
When filling the storage bags, leave some space at the top. Breastmilk expands when frozen, so it’s important not to overfill the bags. A good rule of thumb is to fill them with 4 to 6 ounces of milk, which is a typical feeding size for infants. After filling, carefully seal the bags, ensuring that there is no air trapped inside, as this can lead to freezer burn.
Labeling and Dating
Label each bag with the date and the amount of milk stored. This practice is vital for tracking how long the milk has been stored and ensuring that you use the oldest milk first. Breastmilk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, in the freezer for about six months, and in a deep freezer for up to a year.
Storing the Bags
For optimal storage, place the bags flat in the freezer. This not only saves space but also allows for quicker thawing later on. When storing in the refrigerator, place the bags on the bottom shelf at the back, where the temperature is most consistent, rather than in the door.
Thawing and Using Stored Milk
When it’s time to use the stored breastmilk, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or by placing the bag in a bowl of warm water. Avoid using a microwave, as it can create hot spots that may burn your baby’s mouth and can also destroy some of the milk’s beneficial properties. Once thawed, breastmilk should be used within 24 hours and should not be refrozen.
Conclusion
Properly storing breastmilk in bags is a straightforward process that can help ensure your baby receives the best nutrition possible, even when you’re not around. By choosing the right bags, filling them correctly, labeling them, and storing them properly, you can maintain the quality and safety of your breastmilk for your little one.

What is the best way to store pumped breast milk?

Storing breast milk after expressing
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.

How many ounces of breastmilk should you store in each bag?

Store only 2 to 4 ounces per container. That way you won’t waste any when you need to thaw and use it. Label each collection container with the date and any medicines you have taken.

Can I mix breast milk from different days?

Can I add freshly expressed breast milk to already stored milk? You can add freshly expressed breast milk to refrigerated or frozen milk. However, thoroughly cool the freshly expressed breast milk in the refrigerator or a cooler with ice packs before adding it to previously chilled or frozen milk.

Does breastmilk lose nutrients when pumped?

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), freshly expressed breast milk can be safely kept at room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. Generally, when freshly pumped, breast milk is at its peak regarding nutrients.

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.

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 babies drink cold breast milk?

You can feed expressed milk straight from the fridge if your baby is happy to drink it cold. Or you can warm the milk to body temperature by putting the bottle in a jug of warm water or holding it under running warm water. Do not use a microwave to heat up or defrost breast milk.

How to properly store breast milk in bags?

According to the Mayo Clinic, you should store your breast milk in glass or hard plastic, BPA-free containers with caps and lids. If you are storing in bags, make sure to use actual breast milk storage bags and not disposable bottle liners or household plastic bags.

Should I remove air from breastmilk storage bags?

Freezing may cause these to leak and break down. If using breastmilk storage bags, squeeze the air from the top before sealing tightly.

Do I need to sterilize breast milk storage bags?

Bags should be presterilized if you’re buying plastic single use breast milk storage bags. If you’re using reusable bags (silicone etc) or different storage containers, then you may need to sterilize before use and wash or sterilize between uses. Pump parts can be washed with hot soapy water or sterilized between uses.