Monday, May 3, 2010

How Long Can You Keep Breastmilk?

  • You can refrigerate breast milk for three to five days.
  • Freeze it for three to six months.
  • Don't freeze milk if you plan to use within three to five days. Freezing destroys some of the antibodies. Frozen breast milk is still healthier than formula.
  • You can keep milk that's been frozen and thawed in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but don't refreeze it.
  • It can be in a deep freezer the longest because it is not opened and closed often. It can be stored 6 months, or longer. I got a deep freezer before we had Mica just because I knew I'd need it. I used it a lot!
  • If you feel like you have too much milk, your supply will decrease as your baby gets older, or sick. It's a good idea to stock up for later.
  • Hospitals do take donated milk.
  • I found this excellent chart on a site called: Storing and Transporting Breast Milk.


  • Breast milk contains live antibodies that kill bacteria. Since bacteria is what causes milk to spoil, the antibodies in breast milk will keep it fresh longer than formula.

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