Are you a new mom, or just trying to keep up with the breastfeeding routine? Storing breast milk and formula can be confusing and overwhelming, especially when it comes to knowing how long to store breast milk is safe after expressing.
To help make things easier for all moms, we’ve created a simple chart that outlines the amount of time milk can be stored at room temperature in addition to in the refrigerator and freezer.
Whether mommy needs something for on-the-go or plans ahead — we want her to feel like an expert on breastmilk storage!
Introducing a Breast Milk Storage Chart for New Moms
Are you looking for an efficient way to keep track of your breastmilk storage? Introducing our Breastmilk Storage Chart - your new best friend!
This breast milk storage guidelines will help you keep track of milk storage guidelines and what can and can't be consumed and stored. It even has sections for how long the milk can be stored in the fridge and freezer.
Say goodbye to guessing and wasting precious liquid gold. Save this page to your phone, screenshot the image, print it out, whatever is easiest for you and enjoy the convenience it brings to your breastfeeding journey. Happy pumping!
Benefits of Knowing How to Properly Store Breastmilk
As a new mother, learning how to properly store breastmilk is a game-changer. Not only does it allow you to have a stash of milk for when you need to be away from your baby, but it also ensures that your little one is getting the best nutrients possible.
Knowing the proper ways to store breastmilk can also help you avoid an unnecessary oversupply, which can lead to soreness and even engorgement. By storing breast milk only in the right containers and labeling them clearly, you can create a system that works for you and your baby. The benefits of knowing how to properly store breastmilk are clear - it's one less thing to worry about in the hectic world of motherhood.
Room Temperature, Refrigerator, and Freezer
Why is it so complicated? If you're a new parent, the wide range of storage guidelines used for storing breastmilk and formula can be overwhelming.
Here's the scoop:
Room temperature storage is ideal for fresh breast milk for up to four hours.
If you're not going to use the expressed milk in that time frame, it's best to refrigerate it at 40°F or lower for up to four days, longer if preserved well at the back of the fridge.
And if you're not going to use it in that time frame, store it in the freezer at 0°F or lower for up to six months, 6-12 if in a deep freezer and preserved well.
Remember to label each container with the date so you can keep track of when it was expressed. Taking the time to properly store breastmilk and formula can help ensure your baby is getting the nutrients they need.
Formula is a little different, check out the guidelines here
Guidelines For Storing Breastmilk
Tips for Safely Thawed Milk
If you're a parent or caregiver, you know the importance of keeping your little ones safe from harm. One area you may not have thought about is the safety of reheating or thawing frozen milk.
If breast milk is reheated improperly, harmful bacteria can grow and make your child sick. But don't worry, there are some simple tips you can follow to make sure your child's milk is safe to drink after it's been thawed.
The safest way is to thaw frozen breast milk is to leave it at room temperature or in a bowl of warm water. Or you can use a bottle warmer and use a thermometer to check the temperature of the milk before giving it to your child.
For more advice on thawing milk read here.
Laura Robinson
Advantages of Storing Breastmilk in Smaller Containers
As a breastfeeding mom, you know that one of the most important things is ensuring that your baby gets enough milk. One great way to do this is by storing breastmilk in smaller containers. There are many advantages of this method, such as allowing for easier and more efficient storage in the fridge or freezer.
Smaller containers also help ensure that none of your precious milk goes to waste, as you can thaw only what your baby needs for the next feeding. If you thaw too much, you can't refreeze breast milk. Plus, using smaller containers allows for easier and safer transport when you're on-the-go.
So, whether you're a new mom or a seasoned pro, consider using smaller containers for storing breastmilk - your little one (and your sanity!) will thank you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Breastmilk
As a new mom, the task of handling and storing breastmilk might seem daunting at first. You want to make sure your little one is getting the best nutrition possible, but it's easy to make mistakes in the process.
- One common mistake is using the wrong type of container for storing breastmilk. It's important to use only BPA-free plastic bags or approved bottles specifically designed for breastmilk storage.
- Another mistake is not properly labeling the milk with the date and time it was pumped. This can lead to confusion and even spoilage if the milk is kept for too long.
- Do not heat with the lid on as breast milk expands.
- Never refreeze thawed breast milk.
- Never store a bottle with the nipple on, but why, read more..?
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your baby is getting the freshest, safest breastmilk possible.
A Clear Chart Is All You Need
As a new mom, it can be extremely helpful to have a breastmilk storage chart at your disposal. Not only does understanding the correct storage times for breastmilk and formula give you peace of mind, but it helps ensure that you are providing your baby with the safest milk possible.
Be sure to thaw breast milk safely, store frozen breast milk in small containers when possible, and wash all bottles with warm soapy water.
Cleanliness is key when it comes to handling and storing your baby’s precious breastmilk. If stored correctly, breastmilk can maintain its nutritional value and keep your little one healthy and happy.
Now that you have the information you need about safely storing breastmilk for your new bundle of joy, why not read our article on the best mini fridges for keeping your precious milk cold?
Also check out our great finds with the 5 best breast milk storage bags, or the best 3 in 1 bottles that can be used to pump, feed and store milk.
Finally, if your breast needs a little rest from your little one at night, try one of the best pacifiers for breastfed babies.
More Feeding Finds
Laura Robinson
Laura Robinson
Laura Robinson
Breast Milk Storage Chart FAQs
Still have a few questions about this confusing topic, don't worry you'll get the hang of it, but in the meantime here are some FAQs.
Where should I keep the breast milk storage chart?
You can take a photo of this on your phone, save this article or print it out and put it on your fridge, whatever is easiest for you.
How long does defrosted frozen breastmilk last?
Defrosted frozen breastmilk can be stored safely at fridge temperature (4ºC/39ºF) for 24 hours.
Can I freeze previously refrigerated pumped milk ?
Yes! Freshly pumped breastmilk can be placed directly into sterile containers and kept in your refrigerator until you’re ready to use it, or you may immediately place it into your deep freezer where it will keep safe and nutrient-packed until needed.
Is it safe to warm my baby's bottle with microwaved expressed breastmilk?
No! It is not recommended to heat expressed or formula milks in the microwave as this could cause hotspots which could burn your baby's mouth. Instead, warm the bottle using a bowl of hot water or an insulated bottle warmer.
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