Breastmilk is often referred to as “liquid gold” due to its numerous benefits for newborns. It contains essential nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes that help protect infants from infections and promote healthy development. For new mothers, understanding the proper storage of breastmilk is crucial to ensure its freshness and efficacy. One common question that many new mothers have is whether breastmilk can be refrigerated after sitting out. In this article, we will explore various storage options that new mothers can consider.
The Importance of Properly Storing Breastmilk
Breastmilk is a perishable liquid, and its storage plays a vital role in maintaining its quality and preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. When stored correctly, breastmilk can be safely consumed for a certain period. However, improper storage can lead to the spoilage of breastmilk, making it unsafe for the baby to consume.
Room Temperature Storage
In general, freshly expressed breastmilk can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 hours. If the room temperature is higher than 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit), the timeframe should be reduced to 2 hours. It’s important to note that this timeframe is optimal when the breastmilk is kept in a clean and covered container. Leaving breastmilk uncovered or in an unclean container can increase the risk of bacterial contamination.
Refrigerator Storage
If you need to store breastmilk for a longer period, refrigeration is an excellent option. A refrigerator set at a temperature of 0-4 degrees Celsius (32-39 degrees Fahrenheit) provides a suitable environment for keeping breastmilk fresh. When refrigerated, breastmilk can be safely consumed for up to 4 days.
To refrigerate breastmilk, it’s essential to follow a few guidelines. First, make sure to label the container with the date of expression. This will help you keep track of the freshness of the milk. Additionally, place the milk containers towards the back of the refrigerator, where the temperature is most consistent. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator door, as the temperature fluctuates more in that area. Lastly, always use clean containers or breast milk storage bags specifically designed for this purpose.
Freezing Breastmilk
For new mothers who need to store breastmilk for an extended period, freezing is a viable and convenient option. Breastmilk stored in the freezer can maintain its quality for up to 6 months. However, it’s important to keep in mind that freezing breastmilk may cause a minimal loss of some beneficial properties, such as antibodies. Nonetheless, frozen breastmilk is still a valuable source of nutrition for infants.
When freezing breastmilk, it’s crucial to use proper storage containers or breast milk storage bags. These containers should be specifically designed for freezing breastmilk and be sterilized thoroughly before use. Additionally, ensure that the containers are tightly sealed to prevent the milk from being exposed to air, which can lead to freezer burn and a deterioration in quality.
Thawing frozen breastmilk should be done gradually to maintain its nutritional value. The ideal method is to transfer the frozen breastmilk from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw slowly overnight. Avoid using hot water or the microwave for thawing, as these methods can result in the loss of essential nutrients and create hotspots that could burn the baby’s mouth.
Can Breastmilk be Refrigerated After Sitting Out?
Now, let’s address the main question of whether breastmilk can be refrigerated after sitting out. The answer is yes, but only under certain conditions. If breastmilk has been sitting at room temperature for up to 2 hours (or up to 4 hours if the room temperature is less than 25 degrees Celsius), it can be safely refrigerated for future use. However, it’s important to consider that the longer breastmilk sits at room temperature, the greater the risk of bacterial contamination becomes. Therefore, it is always preferable to refrigerate breastmilk promptly after it has been expressed.
Best Practices for Storing Breastmilk
To ensure the safety and quality of stored breastmilk, here are some best practices to follow:
1. Wash hands thoroughly before expressing, storing, or handling breastmilk.
2. Use clean and sterilized containers or breast milk storage bags.
3. Label containers with the date of expression to ensure proper rotation.
4. Store breastmilk towards the back of the refrigerator or in the freezer, depending on your storage preference.
5. Keep breastmilk away from raw meat or eggs in the refrigerator to prevent cross-contamination.
6. Discard any leftover breastmilk that the baby has not consumed within the recommended timeframe.
Conclusion
As a new mother, understanding how to store breastmilk correctly is essential for preserving its quality and safety. While breastmilk can be refrigerated after sitting out for a short period, it’s crucial to adhere to the recommended guidelines to prevent bacterial contamination. Whether you choose to store breastmilk at room temperature or in the refrigerator, always prioritize cleanliness and proper labeling. By following these storage options and best practices, you can confidently provide your baby with the valuable benefits of breastmilk, even when you need to store it for later use.