- Check with your hospital for specific instructions.
- When freezing do not fill bottles/bags more than ¾ full to allow space for expansion.
- Label bottles/bags with the date of pumping.
| Breastmilk Storage (For Healthy Term Babies) | ||||
| Room Temperature | Refrigerator | Refrigerator Freezer Compartment |
Deep Freezer | |
| Freshly expressed breastmilk | Do not leave at room temperature. | 3 - 5 days at approx. 4° C | 6 months at approx. -16° C | 12 months at approx. -18° C |
| Thawed breastmilk (previously frozen) | Do not store | 10 hours | Never refreeze | |
- Thaw frozen breastmilk in the refrigerator the night before or by holding the bottle/bag under warm water. Gently shake the bottle/bag to blend any fat that has separated.
- Do not thaw frozen breastmilk in a microwave or in a pan of boiling water.