Safe Storage of Expressed Breast Milk
- Before expressing or handling breast milk:
- Hand Washing Magic: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are unavailable.
- Inspect and Protect: If using a pump, inspect the pump kit and tubing for cleanliness. Ensure it's free from mold, and discard and replace moldy tubing immediately. Clean pump dials, power switches, and countertops with a disinfectant wipe when using a shared pump.
- Storing breast milk after expressing:
- Container Choice: Utilize breast milk storage bags or clean, food-grade containers made of glass or plastic with tight-fitting lids. Avoid containers with a recycle symbol number 7, indicating potential BPA-containing plastic.
- Say No to Improper Storage: Never store breast milk in disposable bottle liners or plastic bags not intended for this purpose.
- Time is of the Essence: Freshly expressed or pumped milk can be stored at room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours, in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and in the freezer for about six months (best) or up to 12 months (acceptable). Labeling with the expression date is crucial.
- Smart Storage Tips:
- • Clearly label the breast milk with the date it was expressed.
- • Avoid storing breast milk in the door of the refrigerator or freezer to shield it from temperature fluctuations.
- • Freeze breast milk immediately if not anticipated to be used within four days to maintain its quality.
- • Store in small amounts, 2 to 4 ounces, to prevent wastage.
- • Leave an inch of space at the top of the container as breast milk expands upon freezing.
- • If traveling, breast milk can be stored in an insulated cooler with ice packs for up to 24 hours.
- Safe Thawing of Breast Milk
- First In, First Out: Always thaw the oldest breast milk first, following the first in, first out principle to preserve its quality over time.
- Gentle Thawing Rituals: Thaw breast milk in the refrigerator overnight, in a container of warm or lukewarm water, or under lukewarm running water. Never use a microwave; it can destroy nutrients and create uneven heating.
- Time is Precious: If thawed in the refrigerator, use breast milk within 24 hours. Once brought to room temperature or warmed, consume it within 2 hours.
- In the dance of motherhood, where each drop of breast milk is a testament to love, embracing these practices ensures the continuation of this magical journey. Remember, you are the guardian of this enchanting elixir, and your commitment to proper storage and preparation is an ode to the well-being of your precious little one. May your motherhood journey be filled with peace, love, and the nourishing magic of breast milk.
