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Storing Breast Milk Safely
Storing Breast Milk at Room Temperature
According to the CDC, freshly expressed breast milk can be stored at room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours.
Storing Breast Milk in the Refrigerator
Breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s best to store the milk in the back of the refrigerator, not in the door, where the temperature is more consistent. ,
Storing Breast Milk in the Freezer
Breast milk can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months, with 12 months being the maximum acceptable timeframe. It’s important to store the milk in the back of the freezer, not in the door, and to use the “first in, first out” rule to ensure the oldest milk is used first. ,
Thawing and Using Frozen Breast Milk
Thawed, previously frozen breast milk must be used within 24 hours if thawed in the refrigerator, or within 2 hours if warmed. It’s safe to give thawed breast milk to your baby for 24-48 hours after coming home from the hospital.
Containers for Storing Breast Milk
Breast milk should be stored in clean, food-grade containers specifically designed for storing breast milk, such as hard plastic or glass bottles or bags. Avoid using disposable bottle liners or plastic bags not intended for breast milk storage.
Labeling and Dating Breast Milk
Always label and date breast milk before storing it. This helps ensure the oldest milk is used first.
By following these guidelines, you can safely store and use your expressed breast milk to feed your baby.
What are the rules for frozen breast milk?
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 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 breast milk be in the fridge before freezing?
After 4 days of refrigeration, your breast milk should be used or thrown away. Breast milk properties slow the growth of bad bacteria. These properties begin to decline after a few days of refrigeration. If you think you won’t use breast milk within a few days, freeze it as quickly as possible.
Can a baby finish a breast milk bottle later?
If your baby did not finish the bottle, use the leftover milk within 2 hours after the baby is finished feeding. After 2 hours, leftover breast milk should be discarded.
