How to Properly Store Breastmilk in the Freezer?

Using breast milk freezer containers is essential for nursing mothers who want to preserve breast milk for future use. Freezing breast milk allows you to store breast milk when you are away from home or need to supplement feeding, but improper storage can compromise its quality and safety. This article will guide you step by step on how to properly store breast milk in the freezer, explore the best breastmilk freezer containers, and share expert advice to ensure your breast milk is safe and nutritious for your baby to enjoy.

Why freeze breast milk?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), freezing breast milk can extend its shelf life by up to 6-12 months. Properly stored breast milk retains most of its nutrients and antibodies, making it a valuable resource for your baby's health. Choosing the right breast milk freezing container and following best practices will ensure your breast milk is protected from contamination and freezer burn.

Step-by-step guide to storing frozen breast milk

To use breast milk freezer containers, follow these steps to keep your breast milk safe and fresh in the freezer:

1. Choose the right container

Choose a BPA-free food-grade container (glass, plastic, or silicone) or a pre-sterilized breast milk storage bag. Make sure the container is designed for freezing to prevent breakage or leaks.

2. Express and collect milk

Use a clean breast pump or manual breast pump to express milk and follow hygiene guidelines (wash hands, sterilize pump parts). If you are combining multiple expressed milk, refrigerate fresh milk first to avoid heating previously collected milk.

3. Store milk in appropriate portions

Store breast milk in small portions (2-4 ounces) based on your baby's feeding needs and minimize waste.

4. Label the containers

Largely label each container with the date and time of expression and the amount of milk if needed. Use waterproof labels or a permanent marker to ensure legibility. This helps you use the oldest milk first (first in, first out).

5. Seal and store

Make sure the container is tightly sealed to prevent exposure to air and freezer burn. For bags of breast milk, remove excess air before sealing and lay them flat to save space. Place the container in the back of the freezer where the temperature is most stable (0°F or -18°C or lower).

6. Organize the freezer
Then place the bags in the Audind Breast Milk Bags Freezer Storage Organizer and store in the freezer.

Best Ways to Freeze Breast Milk

To preserve the quality of your breast milk, follow these expert tips:

• Freeze promptly: If you don’t plan to use your breast milk within 4 days, freeze it immediately after a few hours in the refrigerator to preserve nutrients.
• Avoid overfilling: Breast milk expands when frozen, so leave room in the container to prevent cracking or leaking.
• Check freezer temperature: Make sure your freezer is at or below 0°F (-18°C). If you’re unsure, use a freezer thermometer.
• Use within recommended timeframe: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using frozen breast milk within 6 months for best quality, but it can be safely stored in the deep freezer for up to 12 months.
• Defrost safely: Thaw frozen breast milk overnight in the refrigerator and rinse with warm water or in a bowl of warm water. Never microwave breast milk, as it can destroy nutrients and create hot spots.

Freeze your breast milk properly with reliable breast milk freezer containers to ensure your baby has safe, nutritious breast milk when it’s needed. Glass bottles are durable, plastic bottles are convenient, storage bags are space-saving, and silicone containers are eco-friendly. By choosing BPA-free containers, portioning your breast milk correctly, and following best practices, you can build a freezer system that’s both practical and safe. Start with a trusted option like Medela bottles or Lansinoh bags to ensure your breast milk is always ready for your baby’s next feed, without any worries!