How to store breast milk after pumping at work?

Storing Breast Milk After Pumping at Work
Returning to work while breastfeeding can be a challenging transition for many mothers. One of the key aspects of this process is effectively storing breast milk after pumping. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do it safely and efficiently.
Understanding Storage Options
When it comes to storing breast milk, there are several options available depending on your work environment and the duration for which the milk will be stored. Breast milk can be stored in a refrigerator, an insulated cooler, or at room temperature, depending on how long you plan to keep it before it is consumed.
– At Room Temperature: Freshly expressed breast milk can be safely stored at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for about four hours. This is ideal for short periods when you might be away from a refrigerator.

– In the Refrigerator: If you have access to a refrigerator, breast milk can be stored there for up to four days. It’s best to place the milk in the back of the fridge, where the temperature is most consistent, rather than in the door.
– In an Insulated Cooler: If you’re on the go, using an insulated cooler with ice packs can keep breast milk fresh for up to 24 hours. This is particularly useful for longer workdays or when traveling.
Choosing the Right Containers
When storing breast milk, it’s crucial to use the right containers. Opt for BPA-free plastic or glass containers, or specialized breast milk storage bags. These containers should be clean and food-grade to ensure the safety of the milk. It’s advisable to store milk in small amounts, typically two to four ounces, to minimize waste in case your baby doesn’t consume all of it at once .
Labeling and Dating
Always label your containers with the date and time the milk was expressed. This practice helps you keep track of how long the milk has been stored and ensures that you use the oldest milk first, adhering to the “first in, first out” principle. This is particularly important for maintaining the quality and safety of the milk.
Cleaning Pump Parts
After pumping, it’s essential to clean your pump parts to prevent contamination. If you’re using a shared pump, make sure to disinfect the dials, power switch, and countertop with a disinfectant wipe. Ideally, pump parts should be cleaned with soap and water after each use, and they can be stored in a clean, sealed container until the next pumping session.
Transporting Milk Safely
When transporting breast milk from work to home, ensure that it remains at a safe temperature. If using an insulated cooler, pack it with ice packs to maintain a cool environment. Avoid leaving breast milk in a hot car or in direct sunlight, as this can compromise its safety.
Conclusion
Storing breast milk after pumping at work doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding the various storage options, using appropriate containers, labeling your milk, and maintaining cleanliness, you can ensure that your breast milk remains safe and nutritious for your baby. This careful approach not only supports your breastfeeding journey but also allows you to balance work and motherhood effectively.

Can I refrigerate an unfinished bottle of breastmilk?

Any remaining breast milk left in a bottle after your baby is finished with a feeding should be used within 2 hours—or, if quickly refrigerated, used for the next feeding. You can always thaw an extra container if needed.

How long can pumped milk stay out after pumping?

4 hours
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.’);})();(function(){window.jsl.dh(‘foloZ-vGG7LD4-EPxP7CgAc__28′,’

What do you store milk in when pumping at work?

Cooler bag and ice packs.
You’ll need a cooler to keep your pumped milk at the proper temperature when you’re transporting it from work to home. (You can also use a cooler to store your milk if you don’t have access to a fridge at work.) Any type of insulated bottle bag will work along with some ice packs.

Is it better to store breast milk in bags or bottles?

I recently learned that breast milk should be stored in glass containers or milk bags, not in plastic bottles. Up to this point, I have stored pumped milk that will be used within the next ~24 hours directly in the plastic bottle.

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.

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.

How do you store breast milk at work without a refrigerator?

A mason jar with a good screw top, milk storage bags, or an un-insulated stainless steel water bottle would all work well, though.

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.

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.

How long does it take for milk to dry up after stopping pumping?

It may take several days or weeks for your breasts to completely stop making milk.