Medically reviewed by Mary Ann Joseph, RN, IBCLC
You’ve been told that breastmilk is like liquid gold for your baby. How do you store this wonder milk safely to keep your baby healthy?
We’re answering the top questions about breastmilk safety here. Our goal is for you to feel confident in your breastfeeding and pumping journey!
How do I store breastmilk?
Store breastmilk in a breastmilk storage bag, containers, or clean, food-grade containers
Containers should be plastic or glass and have tight-fitting lids
Consider expressing or pumping milk straight into the clean container where you will be storing the milk to minimize contamination, says the American Academy of Pediatrics
Mark the bag/container with the date you expressed or pumped it so you don’t forget how old it is! Label it with your child’s name if you will be giving it to your childcare provider.
Store breastmilk in small batches (2-4 oz at a time) to prevent waste (according to Healthy Children.org)
Need help with learning how to use your breast pump and finding the right size flange? Make a free appointment with our staff lactation consultant! She can find your correct size, show you how to use your pump, and help you overcome any other feeding challenges.
How long does breastmilk last?
Freshly expressed or pumped breastmilk can sit at room temperature (77° F) or lower for up to four hours, according to the CDC.
Refrigerator: Up to four days
Freezer: Up to 6 months (but up to 12 months if you keep it in a deep freezer)
Storage tip: Store your breastmilk in the back of the fridge or freezer to keep it as cold as possible! This protects the breastmilk from temperature fluctuations.
How do I reheat breastmilk?
Reheat breastmilk by running warm water over the bag/container or placing it in a larger container of warm water
You can also reheat milk in a bottle warmer designed specifically for heating breastmilk!
It’s not safe to microwave breastmilk because it can scald your baby and destroy nutrients.
Test the milk temperature on your wrist before feeding to make sure you don’t scald the baby!
Can I put breastmilk back in the refrigerator after reheating?
Yes! It stays safe in the refrigerator for two hours after reheating/thawing
If your baby drinks part of a bottle, the rest is only safe to use within the next two hours
How to remember the breastmilk safety guidelines
If you’re finding all of this difficult to remember, you’re not alone! It’s a lot of information. Here are a few tips to help you remember:
Write down the essential information and post it on your refrigerator or keep it in a note on your phone. Refer back to your cheat sheet when you’re struggling to remember!
Remember the rule of 4’s: Fresh breastmilk is safe for 4 hours at room temperature, and 4 days in the refrigerator.
If you have more questions about breastmilk safety and feeding your baby, always ask your baby’s pediatrician.
You’ve got this.
Your baby (and you!) will benefit from the work you’re putting into breastfeeding. Educating yourself on the breastmilk safety guidelines will ensure that your baby receives all these benefits! The guidelines eventually will feel like second nature as you practice feeding your baby.
Adrienne Bergmeier
Adrienne Bergmeier is a Communications Coordinator at The Pregnancy Network.