Breastmilk Storage 101: How Long Is Breastmilk Good for in the Refrigerator?
Breastmilk is an essential source of nutrition for newborns and infants, providing them with the necessary antibodies and nutrients for healthy growth and development. However, storing breastmilk properly is crucial to maintain its quality and ensure the safety of your baby. In this article, we will explore the recommended guidelines for storing breastmilk in the refrigerator and discuss how long breastmilk remains good for in this storage method.
Proper storage of breastmilk is vital to preserve its nutritional value. When stored correctly, breastmilk can retain its quality for an extended period, allowing you to provide your baby with the necessary nutrients even when you’re not available to breastfeed. One of the popular methods of storing breastmilk is refrigeration, which helps maintain its freshness and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria.
How to Store Breastmilk in the Refrigerator
When storing breastmilk in the refrigerator, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure its safety and quality. Here are a few steps to help you store breastmilk effectively:
1. Choose the Right Container
Using the right container is crucial when storing breastmilk. It is recommended to use BPA-free plastic bottles or glass bottles with secure lids. These containers are safe for storing breastmilk and help maintain its quality without any risk of contamination.
2. Label and Date the Containers
Labeling and dating the containers is a simple but important step. By doing so, you can easily keep track of when the breastmilk was expressed and stored. This way, you can ensure that you are using the oldest breastmilk first, reducing any waste.
3. Express Fresh Milk into Clean Containers
Before storing breastmilk in the refrigerator, it is vital to express it into clean containers. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and use sterilized pumping equipment to minimize the risk of contamination. Additionally, it is advisable to express breastmilk directly into the storage container rather than transferring it later.
4. Cool the Breastmilk Gradually
After expressing breastmilk, it is essential to cool it gradually before placing it in the refrigerator. You can do this by leaving the container at room temperature for a short period, then moving it to the refrigerator. This gradual cooling process helps maintain the quality and nutrients of the breastmilk.
How Long Does Breastmilk Last in the Refrigerator?
Freshly Expressed Breastmilk
Freshly expressed breastmilk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. It is crucial to remember that the quality of breastmilk may start to deteriorate after the first day, with a gradual decrease in its nutritional value. Therefore, it is ideal to use the oldest milk first and avoid storing breastmilk for more than three to four days, if possible.
Previously Frozen Breastmilk
If you have previously frozen breastmilk and need to use it, you can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and store it for up to 24 hours. However, it is important to note that once you thaw and warm the breastmilk, it should not be refrozen. Using it within 24 hours is the best practice to ensure your baby’s safety and maintain the quality of the milk.
Room and Fridge Temperatures
To ensure the longevity and quality of breastmilk, it is crucial to store it at the right temperature. The refrigerator temperature should be set at or below 4 degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit). Additionally, it is important to store breastmilk on shelves, where the temperature remains constant, rather than on the refrigerator door, which is subject to temperature variations.
When transporting breastmilk, it is recommended to use insulated cooler bags with ice packs to maintain the cool temperature and preserve the breastmilk’s freshness. This is especially important if you are away from home and need to store breastmilk for an extended period before reaching a refrigerator.
Signs that Breastmilk Has Gone Bad
While storing breastmilk in the refrigerator helps prolong its freshness and maintain its quality, it is essential to be aware of signs that may indicate spoilage. Here are a few indicators that breastmilk has gone bad:
– Foul or sour smell
– Change in color, such as yellowish or brownish
– Chunky or clumpy texture
– Separation into layers (creamy layer on top and watery layer at the bottom)
– Unusual taste
If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the breastmilk to prevent any potential digestive issues or risks to your baby’s health.
Final Thoughts
Storing breastmilk properly is crucial to ensure that your baby receives safe and nutritious milk. Understanding the guidelines for refrigerating breastmilk and how long it remains good for can help you plan and manage your breastmilk supply effectively. Remember to follow the recommended storage practices, including choosing the right containers, labeling and dating, and gradually cooling the milk. By doing so, you can confidently provide your baby with the benefits of breastmilk even when you are not available to breastfeed.