Tips to Freezing Breastmilk

We had a fan question come in regarding how to freeze breastmilk.  It's a great question!  So as requested, here are a few tips to freezing breastmilk.  

 

Storing/Freezing Breastmilk

• Freeze milk in two (2) to five (5) oz portions.  Small amounts will thaw more quickly.  You will waste less milk this way and will avoid over-feeding.  Liquids expand when frozen.  Be sure to leave some extra room at the top of the container so the bottle or bag won't burst.
• Seal containers tightly.  Write the date on the bag or bottle (use a piece of tap).  Use the oldest milk first.
• Stored milk separates into layers.  Cream will rise to the top.  Gently swirl the warmed bottle to mix the milk layers.
• Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in a standard refrigerator freezer for up to three to six months and in a chest freezer for up to six to 12 months. Place the milk in the back of the freezer — not the door.

Defrosting

• Thaw the oldest milk first.  Simply place the frozen container in the refrigerator the night before you intend to use it.  Or hold the bottle under warm running water to quickly thaw.  You can also place the sealed container in a bowl of warm water for 20 minutes to bring it to body temperature.   Never thaw frozen breast milk at room temperature, which enables bacteria to multiply in the milk. 
• Thawed milk is safe in the refrigerator for 24 hours.  DO NOT REFREEZE.  Discard any remaining milk.
• Before offering the milk to your baby, gently swirl it to evenly distribute the creamy portion of the milk that rises to the top of the container during storage.

When you’re freezing breastmilk in  bags - lay them flat to freeze.  Laying them flat will ensure they stack nicely, taking up less room and making your life easier when you are trying to sort through for dates.

CLICK HERE for more information from baby center.

 

Do you have tips for storing and/or freezing breastmilk?  We would love to hear from you!

 

**Making the world a greener place - one baby (family) at a time**

HGB

Sources:  

http://www.medelabreastfeedingus.com

http://www.mayoclinic.com

http://www.babycenter.com/2_how-to-store-and-use-breast-milk_10350927.bc