As we close out National Breastfeeding Month, we encourage new moms and nursing moms to refresh themselves on safe breast milk storage.
This informational campaign comes to you in partnership with the Stark County Community Action Agency.
Keeping your breast pump clean and knowing how to safely store your breast milk are two important things for pumping and nursing moms to know. First and foremost, wash your hands before preparing milk or pumping.
Breast Milk Storage
Seal your milk in a clean bottle or milk collection bag, label it with the date and time of pumping, and immediately put it into the refrigerator or freezer.
- Your freshly pumped milk is safe on the countertop for up to 4 hours.
- Fresh milk is safe in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Use freshly pumped milk from the freezer within 6 months. It is still okay up to 12 months from the date of pumping.
Store your milk in the back of the fridge or freezer, not in the door. Freeze between 2 and 4 ounces to reduce waste and never refreeze thawed milk.
Breast milk can be served warm, at room temperature, or cold; your baby might have a preference. Discard whatever your baby does not drink after 2 hours.
Cleaning Your Pump
You should always clean your milk storage and pump equipment in a clean wash basin, not the sink. The sink can contain germs that might contaminate your parts.
- Use soap and hot water
- Use a specially design brush to scrub bottles and equipment
- Air dry all the parts- do not use a hand towel
- Clean the basin and bottle brush(es)
If you find any moldy tubing or parts, discard them immediately and replace the items with clean sanitized parts. Store items in a dry and safe area until future use.
The SCCAA Community Actions Pathway HUB is an available resource for pregnant and new mothers in need of support, education, and community services. For more information about breastfeeding, visit the CDC at https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/InfantandToddlerNutrition/breastfeeding/index.html.
Audrey Mattevi
Reporting