Breast milk can typically stay fresh in the refrigerator for a particular duration. Here are some general guidelines:
Freshly Expressed Breast Milk: You can store freshly expressed breast milk in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or lower for 4-6 days. Using the milk as soon as possible is recommended to ensure its quality.
Thawed or Warmed Breast Milk: If you thaw or warm frozen breast milk, it should be used within 24 hours if stored in the refrigerator. Do not refreeze thawed breast milk.
Leftover Milk from a Feeding: If any breast milk remains in a bottle after a feeding, it is generally safe to refrigerate it and use it within 2 hours. However, it’s important to note that bacteria from the baby’s mouth can enter the bottle during feeding, which may shorten the storage time.
To maintain the quality of breast milk, follow these guidelines for proper storage:
Store breast milk in clean, sterilized containers with airtight lids.
Label the containers with the date of expression to keep track of freshness.
Place the milk towards the back of the refrigerator, where the temperature is most consistent.
Avoid storing breast milk in the refrigerator door as it may be subject to temperature fluctuations.