Learning About Storing Breast Milk

Breast milk can be released (expressed) by hand or with a pump. Then the milk can be stored to feed your baby later. Breast milk can be stored at room temperature, in the fridge, or in the freezer for certain amounts of time. Storing breast milk properly can help keep it safe to feed to your baby.

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  Choose safe containers for storage. You can use:

  • Plastic baby bottle liners.
  • Breast milk storage bags.
  • Glass or plastic bottles or food containers with lids.

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  Prepare your containers.

  • Wash any bottles in hot, soapy water.
  • Use the dishwasher, if you can.
  • Make sure bottles are clean and dry.

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  Fill your containers safely.

  • Wash your hands before handling milk that will be stored.
  • Use a container that holds only enough milk for one feeding.
  • You can combine the milk from both breasts collected during the same session in one container.
  • Allow some space at the top of the bag or bottle. The milk will expand when it freezes.
  • Write the date the milk was collected on the outside of the bag or bottle.

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  Store milk in the fridge or freezer for later.

  • Keep the milk at the back of the fridge or freezer. This will give the best temperature control.

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  Thaw frozen milk carefully.

  • To thaw frozen milk, you can:
    • Run warm water over the container until the milk becomes slushy.
    • Thaw it in the fridge overnight.

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  Warm the milk for your baby—if you want.

  • Warm the milk in lukewarm water (no warmer than 104°F (40°C)) for 20 minutes.
  • Don't use a microwave. It creates hot spots in the milk. This can burn your baby's mouth and throat.

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  Swirl the container to mix the milk.

  • Breast milk will separate as the fat floats to the top. Separation is normal.