How Long Can Breast Milk Be Stored in the Fridge?
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Breast Milk Collection
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Wash your hands with warm soapy water before you collect the milk. Make sure all parts of the breast pump and the collection bottles are clean. Collect the milk you pump into BPA-free storage containers or breast milk storage bags. These containers and bags can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
Breast Milk Storage
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Breast milk can be stored at room temperature for four to six hours. Keep the breast milk as cool as possible during this time. Breast milk can be stored in a cooler with ice packs for up to 24 hours. The refrigerator can keep it fresh for five to seven days. Breast milk can be stored in a freezer for three to six months and for six to 12 months in a deep freezer. If you are using breast milk storage bags, be sure to get all the air out of the bag before sealing it to prevent freezer burn. Thawed breast milk must be used within 24 hours and must be refrigerated until use. Never refreeze breast milk.
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Breast Milk Preparation
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Give a baby the oldest breast milk first. The milk will separate in the refrigerator, the fat rising to the top. Gently swirl the bottle to mix the layers together. Milk should be warmed before giving it to the child. Never warm the milk in the microwave as it kills important enzymes. Warm the milk by holding the container under warm running water, or placing the container in a bowl of warm water. You can thaw breast milk in the same manner, or leave it in the refrigerator overnight.
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