How Long Can You Keep Expressed Breast Milk Refrigerated

Expressed breast milk is a valuable source of nutrition for your baby. Whether you’re returning to work or just want some extra flexibility, pumping and storing your breast milk can provide you with the freedom you need while ensuring that your baby still gets the benefits of breastfeeding.

Knowing how long you can keep expressed breast milk refrigerated is essential for maintaining its quality and safety. Proper storage and handling of breast milk can help preserve its nutrients and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

The general rule of thumb is that freshly expressed breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. However, it’s essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure the freshness and safety of your milk.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Always wash your hands before expressing or handling breast milk.
2. Use clean, sterilized containers or breast milk storage bags made specifically for this purpose.
3. Label each container with the date and time of expression.
4. Keep the milk in the back of the refrigerator, where the temperature is the coldest, and avoid opening the door frequently.
5. If you’re unsure about the freshness of the milk, give it a sniff test. Spoiled breast milk has a sour or off smell.

Remember, the guidelines mentioned above are for refrigerated breast milk. If you’re not planning to use the milk within four days, it’s recommended to freeze it instead. Frozen breast milk can be safe to use for up to six months when stored properly.

By adhering to these storage recommendations, you can ensure that your expressed breast milk remains safe and nutritious for your little one.

Refrigerated Breast Milk Storage Guidelines

Proper storage of expressed breast milk is crucial to ensure its freshness and safety for your baby. Follow these guidelines for refrigerated breast milk storage:

1. Clean Storage Containers

Start by washing your hands with soap and water. Use clean, BPA-free storage containers specifically designed for breast milk storage. Make sure the containers and their lids are washed and sanitized before use.

2. Labeling and Dating

Before storing the breast milk in the refrigerator, label the containers with the date and time of expression. This way, you can easily track the freshness and use the oldest milk first.

3. Temperature and Placement

The refrigerator temperature should be set below 4°C (39°F). Place the containers of breast milk in the back of the refrigerator where the temperature is most consistent. Avoid storing them in the door or near the front, as the temperature might fluctuate.

4. Freshly Expressed Milk

Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If your baby is healthy, it is safe to use within this time frame. However, using it within 2-3 days is preferable to ensure maximum freshness and nutritional value.

5. Thawed Milk

If you have previously frozen breast milk and have thawed it in the refrigerator, use it within 24 hours. Do not refreeze thawed milk.

Remember: Always sniff the milk before giving it to your baby. If it has an unusual smell or appears discolored, discard it.

Following these guidelines will help ensure that your expressed breast milk remains safe and beneficial for your baby.

Storing Expressed Breast Milk: Dos and Don’ts

Properly storing expressed breast milk is crucial to maintain its quality and ensure the safety of your baby. Here are some dos and don’ts to follow:

Do:

1. Use sterile containers: Use clean bottles or storage bags that have been washed and sterilized.
2. Date and label: Always label the containers with the date when the milk was expressed. This will help you keep track of freshness.
3. Store in the refrigerator: Place the breast milk in the coldest part of the refrigerator, which is usually at the back. Make sure the temperature is set between 32°F and 39°F (0°C and 4°C).
4. Keep milk separate: Avoid mixing freshly expressed milk with already refrigerated milk. Store them in separate containers and cool the freshly expressed milk before combining.
5. Use milk within 5 days: Refrigerated breast milk is best used within 5 days, but it’s recommended to use it within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Don’t:

• Refreeze thawed milk: Once breast milk has been thawed, do not refreeze it. Thawed milk should be used within 24 hours.
• Save unfinished milk: Discard any leftover milk after a feeding. Do not save it for later use, as bacteria from your baby’s mouth can contaminate the milk.
• Store milk in the door: Avoid storing breast milk in the refrigerator door as the temperature fluctuates more there. It’s best to store it in the main body of the refrigerator.
• Heat milk in the microwave: Never heat breast milk in the microwave as it can create hot spots that may burn your baby’s mouth. Use a bowl of warm water instead.
• Use cracked or damaged containers: Only use containers that are in good condition. Cracked or damaged containers can affect the quality of the breast milk.

By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure the safety and quality of your expressed breast milk for your baby’s nourishment. Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Thawing and Using Refrigerated Breast Milk

When it comes to using refrigerated breast milk, it’s important to thaw it properly to maintain its quality and ensure the safety of your baby. Follow these steps to thaw and use refrigerated breast milk:

1. Take the bottle or bag of refrigerated breast milk out of the refrigerator.

2. Place the container in a bowl of warm water. Make sure the water does not go above the level of the bottle or bag.

3. Leave the container in the warm water until the breast milk is fully thawed. You can gently swirl the container occasionally to help speed up the process.

4. Once the breast milk is fully thawed, remove it from the warm water and give it a gentle swirl to mix the cream, which tends to separate during storage.

5. Check the temperature of the breast milk by placing a few drops on the inside of your wrist. It should feel warm, but not hot.

6. If your baby is ready to feed, pour the desired amount of breast milk into a clean bottle or nursing cup.

7. Use the thawed breast milk within 24 hours. If your baby does not finish the milk within that time, it should be discarded. Do not refreeze thawed breast milk.

Remember, always follow the guidelines provided by your healthcare provider or lactation consultant when it comes to handling and storing breast milk. Proper storage and handling practices will help ensure that your baby gets the best nutrition from your expressed breast milk.

Storing Expressed Breast Milk for Travel

When you are planning to travel and need to bring expressed breast milk with you, it is important to store it properly to ensure its safety and quality. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Cooler Bag:

Invest in a good quality cooler bag with ice packs or frozen gel packs. This will help keep the breast milk cold while you are on the go. Make sure to pack the milk in sealed containers to prevent any leakage.

Temperature:

Keep the breast milk at a temperature below 4°C (39°F) to ensure its freshness. Avoid exposing it to high temperatures as it can spoil the milk and increase the risk of bacterial growth.

Duration:

Plan your travel schedule accordingly to ensure that the expressed breast milk is consumed within the recommended time frames. If you are unable to use the milk within 24 hours, consider freezing it instead.

Labeling:

Always label the containers with the date and time of expression. This will help you keep track of the milk’s freshness and usage. Use a waterproof marker or labels to prevent smudging.

Handling:

Be cautious while handling the breast milk during travel. Avoid shaking the containers vigorously as it can cause nutrient loss and fat separation. Instead, gently swirl the containers to mix any separated layers.

Security Checkpoints:

If you are traveling by air, inform the security personnel that you are carrying breast milk. They may ask you to go through additional screening procedures. Follow their instructions and be prepared to explain the purpose of carrying breast milk.

Storage at Destination:

Once you reach your destination, place the expressed breast milk in a refrigerator as soon as possible. If a refrigerator is not available, use insulated cooler bags with ice packs to maintain the temperature. Avoid storing the milk in the hotel room’s mini fridge as it may not provide adequate cooling.

Remember, expressed breast milk is a valuable source of nutrition for your baby and it is important to store it properly to maintain its quality and safety. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your baby receives the benefits of your breast milk even while you are traveling.

How to Know if Expressed Breast Milk Has Gone Bad

As a new mom, it’s important to be able to determine whether your expressed breast milk has gone bad. Here are some helpful tips to help you know if your breast milk is still safe for your baby:

1. Smell: One of the easiest ways to tell if your expressed breast milk is spoiled is by its smell. Fresh breast milk typically has a sweet, slightly sweet smell. However, if it smells sour, rotten, or has an off-putting odor, it is likely spoiled and should be discarded.

2. Appearance: Fresh breast milk usually has a creamy appearance and a consistent color. If your breast milk appears chunky, clumpy, or has separated into layers, it may indicate that it is no longer good.

3. Taste: Your baby is the ultimate taste-tester! If your baby refuses to drink your expressed breast milk or shows signs of dislike, it may be a sign that the milk has gone bad. You can also taste a small amount yourself to determine if it has a sour or rancid flavor.

4. Temperature: If your expressed breast milk has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours, it is no longer safe for consumption and should be discarded. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature.

5. Storage guidelines: Always follow recommended storage guidelines for expressed breast milk. If you have stored your breast milk in the refrigerator and it has passed the recommended duration, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

Note: When in doubt, it is always safer to discard your breast milk if you suspect it may be spoiled.

FAQ

How long can breast milk be stored in the refrigerator?

Expressed breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is important to store the milk in clean, sterilized containers and keep it in the back of the refrigerator where the temperature is coolest.

Can I combine freshly pumped breast milk with already refrigerated breast milk?

Yes, you can combine freshly pumped breast milk with already refrigerated breast milk, as long as you follow the guidelines for storing breast milk. It is important to cool the freshly pumped milk in the refrigerator before combining it with the previously refrigerated milk.

What is the best way to thaw frozen breast milk?

The best way to thaw frozen breast milk is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you need to thaw it more quickly, you can place the sealed container of breast milk in a bowl of warm water. It is important not to thaw breast milk in the microwave, as it can cause hot spots and destroy some of the beneficial properties of the milk.

How long can breast milk be stored in the freezer?

Expressed breast milk can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. However, it is best to use the stored milk within 3 months to ensure the highest quality. It is important to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of how long the milk has been stored.