Breastmilk, often referred to as "liquid gold", is full of nutrients, antibodies, and goodness that help your baby grow strong and healthy.
Correct methods of storage ensures that every feed stays fresh, safe and full of essential nutrients, whether you're at home, at work, or on the go.
Storing breastmilk correctly also gives you flexibility and peace of mind, allowing you to:
- Prepare bottles ahead of time,
- Share feeding responsibilities with your partner or caregiver,
- Build up a freezer stash for when you need to be away,
- Continue breastfeeding even after returning to work or traveling.
Storing your Breastmilk | DO's
✅ DO wash your hands thoroughly before expressing, handling and storing your breastmilk.
✅ DO use a clean, sterilised container specifically designed for storing breastmilk to ensure there is no risk of contamination.
✅ DO label each container with the date, time and volume of expression to keep a track of your breastmilk.
✅ DO store milk in small amounts (2-4oz / 60-120ml) to avoid waste when thawing.
✅ DO place milk in the back of the fridge or freezer (the coldest spot).
✅ DO thaw the milk in the fridge or in warm water (never hot or boiling water).
✅ ****DO swirl gently to mix seperated fat (don’t shake).
✅ DO use the oldest milk first - “first in, first out!”
Storing your Breastmilk | DO NOT's
❌ DO NOT refreeze thawed milk.
❌ DO NOT microwave breastmilk - it creates hot spots and destorys nutrients.
❌ DO NOT store the milk in the door of a fridge or freezer.
❌ DO NOT mix fresh milk with frozen/thawed milk.
❌ DO NOT overfill the bags - milk expands when frozen.
Storing & Thawing your Breastmilk | Tips & Tricks
✨ You must use thawed milk within 24 hours.
✨ You must use warmed milk within 1-2 hours.
✨ Freeze milk flat for easy storing & quick thawing.
✨ Before mixing breast milk, allow both to reach the same temperature in the fridge first.
✨ Squeeze all the air out of the bag before sealing.
✨ Warm gently by placing the sealed bag or bottle in a bowl of warm water.
✨ Always test the temperature by placing a drop on the inside of your wrist - it should feel warm, not hot. Alternatively you can use Temperature Sensing Storage Bags to take away the guessing.
✨ If your little one doesn’t finish a bottle - discard any remaining milk within 2 hours - don’t save it for later.
Guide to Storing your Breastmilk
| Location | Temperature | Store Time |
| Room Temperature |
|
Up to 6 hours |
| Cooler Bag (with ice) | Up to 15 ° | Up to 24 hours |
| Fridge | 4 ° or lower | Up to 6 days |
| Freezer (built-in fridge) | -18° or lower | Up to 2 weeks |
| Freezer (separate) | -18° or lower | Up to 6 months |
| Freezer (Deep/Chest) | -20 ° or lower | Up to 12 months |
Happy Feeding!
Storing and handling your breastmilk correctly helps protect all the vital nutrients and goodness your baby needs to grow and thrive. With a little care and planning, you can build a safe supply of milk that provides flexibility, convenience, and peace of mind — whether you’re at home, heading back to work, or simply enjoying a well-deserved rest while someone else takes a feed.
Remember, there’s no perfect way to feed your little one — just the way that works best for you and your family. Take things one step at a time, follow safe storage practices, and celebrate the amazing job you’re doing in providing love and nourishment every single day.
And above all, please remember that “fed is best.” If at any point during your breastfeeding or pumping journey you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or ready to stop, it’s completely okay to make that choice. Your well-being matters just as much as your baby’s, and taking care of yourself is a vital part of caring for them. Whether your baby is nourished with breastmilk, formula, or a combination of both, what truly matters is that they are fed, loved, and thriving — and that you feel supported and confident in your journey as a parent.