breastmilk storage..

Kelly - posted on 11/16/2009

I've read differing information about how long breast milk can be stored in the fridge with most information suggesting anywhere between 3 days and 8 days. It makes it all extremelly confusing. But one theme that is consistent through the information is not to store it in fridge or freezer doors because these have the least consistent temp (all the opening and closing). The best place to store the milk is at the back of the fridge.

I would also recommend the Medala breast pumps.

Sally - posted on 11/16/2009

I was told 3 days in the fridge and 3 months in the freezer (6 months in deep freeze). I never left it more than 2 days in the fridge but that's just me. Also I wouldn't really want to use the frozen milk after 3 months even if it was ok, simply because your milk changes over time. The milk you produce when your bub is 3 months old is different from when your bub is 6 or 7 months old.



I DEFINITELY recommend the medela pumps - I haven't tried anything else but I loved the medela. I used to pump after feeds during the night as well just to get as much as I could, and to encourage as much production as I could. I never tried a hand operated pump - the electric ones are great. Also I discovered that if you get an old bra (fairly tight) and cut a slit in each cup right over your nipple (take the bra off first! lol), just big enough for the pump thing to fit through, you can then sit back and relax and read a book or whatever without even having to hold them! lol :-)

Sara - posted on 11/15/2009

I pumped at work for 6 months. The breast pump I bought had 4 bottles I could pump into and a nice carring case for it with an icepack that could keep the milk cold all day. At night I would place them into freezer bags and freeze them. I thought that they could be frozen in a regular freezer for 3 months. Every night I sanitized my pumping stuff and bottles. Medela has nice sanitation bags that go in the microwave and sanitizes everything in 3 minutes. I used them at work. I have to recommend he Medela pumps. They are a little more expensive but really nice.

Melissa - posted on 11/15/2009

Yes it is safe I was a working mom and Breastfeed my two kids first one for eight months second for seven months. It is the best thing for your child. They are now 8 and 11 they have not been very sick at all. I will pump at work on my breaks and lunch hour. Then now they did not have a room for me to pump in. Today at my job they have a room you go in and pump. A very nice place to pump breast. Look and Google Breastfeeding and look at all good things it does for your bady.

Marlene - posted on 11/15/2009

hm.. i was told by the NICU nurses its 3days for the fridge and in the freezer 3months and 6 months in a deep freezer

Connie - posted on 11/15/2009

You can store your fresh breastmilk in the frigerator up to one week - be sure to mix the milk when you serve it, because the fat will seperate and float to the top. You can freeze your milk up to six months. Thaw, mix, warm, and serve - throw out anything left. I always stored my milk in 4oz increments - so I can adjust amounts as my son needed without wasting too much.

Melissa - posted on 11/15/2009

I breastfed my son and it is safe to pump and store in the freezer. You can store it up to 6 months I believe and I think for 3 weeks in the fridge. But you can ask your pediatrican or lactition about that. I used to pump it right into a bottle and store it in that. When you do buy a breast pump, it will tell you how to use it. Best of luck!!