Breastfeeding comes with challenges and questions. These questions can center particularly around scheduling feedings and tackling breast milk storage to make the most of any extra.

Whether you’re returning to work, building up a supply for a night out, or simply in need of a break, knowing how to store your breast milk safely is essential for times when you aren’t available to feed your baby directly. For people wondering whether to breastfeed or explore other lactation options, understanding how to properly preserve breast milk can also be a deciding factor in its feasibility.

In this blog, we answer your most frequently asked questions about breast milk storage to ensure your little one gets the nourishment they need whenever they need it.

How Long Can Breast Milk Stay Out?

First things first: How long is it safe to leave breast milk at room temperature? Generally, freshly expressed breast milk can stay out for up to four hours at room temperature, ideally kept as cool as possible. However, it’s always best to store milk in the refrigerator or freezer if you won’t be using it right away. Remember, when in doubt, it’s safer to err on the side of caution and use cooler storage options.

Can You Store Breast Milk in the Freezer?

When it comes to freezing, breast milk has specific needs. You can freeze breast milk in either storage bags or containers, but be sure to leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. Label each container with the date of expression; breast milk can be stored in a standard freezer for up to six months and in a deep freezer for up to 12 months.

For more detailed guidelines, check out our quick guide to freezing breast milk at home.

Can You Freeze-Dry Breast Milk?

The concept of freeze-drying breast milk is intriguing but currently not a widely available or recommended practice for everyday use. Freeze-drying involves removing water from frozen breast milk under vacuum pressure, turning it into a powder without going through a liquid phase. Essentially, it’s like making your own formula powder at home.

However, while this method could potentially extend the shelf life of breast milk and make storage easier, it requires specialized equipment and can affect the nutritional and immunological properties of the milk. For now, traditional freezing is the safest, most accessible method for long-term breast milk storage.

What Kind of Breast Milk Storage Containers Can You Use?

Choosing the right storage container can make all the difference in preserving the quality of your breast milk. Here are some popular options:

• Plastic Bags: Specialized breast milk storage bags are designed for freezing and can save space in your freezer. Ensure they’re BPA-free, and try to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Glass Bottles: Glass is an excellent option for storing breast milk because it’s naturally BPA-free and doesn’t absorb smells or flavors. Ensure the bottles have tight-fitting lids.
• Hard Plastic Bottles: Like glass, hard plastic bottles made specifically for breast milk storage are a durable, reusable option. Again, look for BPA-free bottles.

Each option has its pros and cons, so consider your storage needs, available space, and personal preferences when choosing.

Prepare for Pregnancy and Beyond with 2Me Healthcare

Whether you’re about to have a newborn or are still planning ahead for your pregnancy, it’s essential to work with healthcare providers who listen to your concerns and can help create a plan for your unique needs. If you want to work with a midwife offering holistic pregnancy and fertility support, OB2me is here to help.

At OB2me, we offer private in-home or in-office concierge midwifery care. We support you with comfortable prenatal and postpartum care for you and your family. We are also available to help you throughout your labor and delivery at the hospital.

OB2me provides multiple packages and services to fit your needs best and make your transition from pregnancy to motherhood as stress-free as possible in the greater Atlanta area, including Alpharetta, Marietta, and Roswell. Just contact our team today and see how working with a dedicated and passionate healthcare provider can make all the difference!