Show All- Pumped milk may be stored in standard baby bottles (glass or plastic). Special bags are also available for human milk storage for home use. Squeeze air from the top of bags before sealing. Seal bags with a twist tie or clamp and place upright to prevent leaking. Label each collection container with the date the milk was pumped.
- If you collect more than one bottle full of milk, mix the contents of both containers by swirling gently before placing in refrigerator or freezer.
- Milk will expand during freezing so fill container ¾ full. You may combine milk from two different pumping times if needed. Store only two to four ounces per container so you don’t waste milk by having to thaw more than you need!
- To transport milk, place it in an insulated bag or cooler with a frozen cold pack.
- Fresh” breast milk contains the most active anti-infective properties, followed by refrigerated, and then frozen breast milk.
- Fresh milk at room temperature Four hours
- Fresh milk refrigerated (4° C, 39°F) 3 – 5 days
- Frozen milk in freezer section of refrigerator with separate door 3 months
- Frozen milk at 0°F (-19°C) or lower 6 – 12 months
- Frozen milk thawed in refrigerator 24 hours
- Milk left in bottle after infant has begun feeding Use within 1 hr. and do not store for later use.
- Wash your hands before handling milk.
- Thaw breast milk by placing the collection container in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- Do not refreeze milk once it has been thawed.
- To warm refrigerated or frozen milk hold the container of milk under warm running water. You may also place it in a container of warm water. The water level should not touch the bottle lid or top of the bag.
- Milk should never be warmed in the microwave. The microwave can create hot spots in the milk. Microwaving or heating milk in very hot water may also decrease the anti-infective properties of human milk.
- Your milk separates during storage and the cream (fat) rises to the top. Gently swirl the bottle of milk to mix it. Avoid vigorous shaking.
For additional information on this Health Topic, call the Center for Breastfeeding Medicine at 513-636-2326.
