Breastmilk, containing all the necessary ingredients for healthy development, is the ideal nutrition for babies. Many mothers choose to pump breastmilk, which allows them more flexibility and they can share feedings with their partner or another caregiver. Proper storage of breastmilk is essential for maintaining its hygiene and preserving its unique characteristics.

Here are a few important tips:

Where should I store my breastmilk?

Breastmilk should be stored in suitable containers, either in the fridge or the freezer:

• Glass containers.
• Plastic bottles meant for use in fridge.
• Sterile, disposable breastmilk storage bags which can be used in either the fridge or freezer.

Choose the most convenient and easy storage method, enabling easy filling, storing, and defrosting the milk.

Breastmilk can be stored in Annabella bottles for a short period of time and used within a few days. Annabella breastmilk storage bags allow for long-term storage in the fridge or freezer.

Both the bottles and bags are made from high-quality, durable materials free from PVC, BPA, and phthalates, ensuring the quality of the breastmilk.

• Annabella breastmilk storage bags: Convenient and compact, sterile, durable, and leak-proof reliability.
• Annabella breastmilk storage bottles: Made of hard plastic, providing reliable storage.

The correct temperature for breastmilk storage:

Breastmilk, being a live tissue containing live cells, is sensitive to temperature changes. Incorrect storage temperatures may damage the quality of the breastmilk. Here are some tips for storing breastmilk at the correct temperatures:

• Fresh breastmilk can be stored at room temperature (up to 25°C) for four hours.
• In the fridge (4°C), breastmilk can be stored for 3-5 days. For better temperature stability, store breastmilk at the back of the fridge.
• In the freezer (-18°C), breastmilk can be stored for 6-12 months.

Freezing and Defrosting Breastmilk:

Proper freezing and defrosting are essential for storing breastmilk storage. Rapid freezing preserves nutritional value, while stable storage temperatures prevent bacterial growth. Proper defrosting is crucial for maintaining breastmilk quality.

• Freeze the breastmilk rapidly.
• Use containers specifically designed for breastmilk.
• Label the container with the date of pumping.
• Store the breastmilk in the back of the freezer for more stable temperatures.
• When freezing breastmilk in a bag, it’s best to lay the bag horizontally. This flattens the bag during freezing, enabling convenient storage and quicker defrosting.

Defrosting:

• Defrost breastmilk either in the fridge or in lukewarm water.
• Avoid defrosting in the microwave or by boiling.
• After defrosting, breastmilk can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Use older breastmilk first.
• After defrosting, breastmilk might separate into layers. Gently stir before use.
• Always check the milk’s odor and appearance before feeding. If you are uncertain about its safety, discard it.

Summary

Proper storage of breastmilk is relatively simple and ensures your baby receives the ideal nourishment. By following these guidelines, you can be sure that your breastmilk is properly stored.