Concerning the storage of breast milk, novice mothers often have many questions. However, there is no need to worry. This article will provide you with the proper techniques for storing breast milk.

Q1:Is it better to refrigerate or freeze pumped milk?

The decision to refrigerate or freeze expressed milk depends on the volume of milk you have and your baby's consumption needs, as well as your planned timeline for feeding. If the milk will be consumed within three days, it can be stored in the refrigerator. However, if it will be several days before the milk is consumed, it should be stored in the freezer for optimal preservation.

Q2:Which is the superior method of storage, milk bottles or storage bags

Both milk bottles and storage bags made from safe materials are ideal choices for storing breast milk. Comparatively, storage bags are lighter, take up less space in the refrigerator, and are more suitable for long-term storage. They are also more affordable. On the other hand, milk bottles offer the convenience of skipping the hassle of transferring milk and are resistant to squeezing. Some even come with nipples, allowing babies to drink directly after heating.

Q3:How long can expressed milk be stored at room temperature without a refrigerator?

During social outings or work commitments, one may encounter the awkward situation of lacking a refrigerator for storing expressed breast milk. Thankfully, there are now user-friendly solutions available to address this issue, such as insulated milk backpacks paired with ice packs. Once back home, the expressed milk can be effortlessly transferred to the refrigerator for safekeeping.

Q4:Is it possible to add freshly expressed breast milk to stored milk?

Certainly, it is okay. However, before adding freshly expressed breast milk to previously refrigerated or frozen milk, it is important to rapidly cool the milk. Avoid adding warm milk to frozen milk, as this may cause partial thawing of the frozen milk.

Q5:How long can expressed breast milk be stored?

 Here are some guidelines you can refer to:

Room temperature: Freshly expressed and clean breast milk can be stored at room temperature (16°C-25°C or 60°F-77°F) for up to six hours, preferably used within four hours.

Refrigeration: Fresh breast milk is best stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and up to five days in very clean conditions.

Freezing: Fresh breast milk can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, and up to nine months in very clean conditions. Avoid refreezing thawed milk and use it within 24 hours.

Research suggests that the longer breast milk is stored, whether refrigerated or frozen, the greater the loss of vitamin C in the milk.

Q6:Does thawed breast milk have a different scent or appearance compared to fresh breast milk?

The color of breast milk may vary slightly depending on the mother's diet. Additionally, thawed breast milk may have a different odor or consistency compared to freshly expressed milk, but it is still safe to feed to your baby. If your baby refuses thawed milk, it is recommended for the mother to manage the storage time more carefully.