How to Freeze Breast Milk

If you've pumped more breast milk than your baby will need within two to three days, freeze it for later use.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Baby Bottles
• Breast Pump
• Brushes For Cleaning Baby Bottles
• Plastic Baby Bottle Liners

1. Express breast milk using a breast pump.
2. Pour pumped milk into clean bottles or plastic bottle-liner bags.
3. Leave an inch at the top of the container - milk expands as it freezes.
4. Label each bottle or bag with the date.
5. Freeze milk as soon as possible after pumping, or within 24 hours.
6. Store milk in the freezer for four to six months.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash hands, bottles and the parts of the breast pump that contact the breast or milk with warm, soapy water before starting.
• Freeze milk in 2- to 4-oz. portions. Small portions freeze and thaw quickly.
• Add newly pumped milk to already frozen milk only after the new milk is chilled.
• Throw out any breast milk that has been at room temperature for more than 6 hours.