Can Breast Milk Be Stored in the Refrigerator?

Breast milk is the most valuable and nutritious food for newborns and young infants. However, not all mothers are always available to breastfeed directly. That’s why pumping and storing breast milk becomes an effective solution. So, can breast milk be stored in the refrigerator? And if so, what is the proper way to store it? Let’s dive into the details below.

• 1. Can Breast Milk Be Refrigerated?
• 2. How to Properly Store Breast Milk in the Refrigerator
• 2.1. Use the Right Storage Containers
• 2.2. Seal Tightly
• 2.3. Store in the Right Spot
• 3. How Long Can Breast Milk Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
• 4. Important Tips for Breast Milk Storage
• 5. How to Thaw and Warm Breast Milk Properly
• 5.1. Thawing
• 5.2. Warming
• 6. Frequently Asked Questions
• 6.1. How long can thawed breast milk last?
• 6.2. Can thawed breast milk be refrozen?
• 6.3. What if stored milk smells different?
• 7. Conclusion

1. Can Breast Milk Be Refrigerated?

The answer is: Yes. Breast milk can absolutely be stored in the refrigerator. In fact, refrigerating pumped breast milk not only allows moms to be more flexible with feeding schedules, but also helps retain most of the milk's nutrients—if stored properly.

Pediatric experts and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend refrigerating breast milk immediately after pumping, especially when mothers are working, away from home, or unable to nurse directly.

2. How to Properly Store Breast Milk in the Refrigerator

To store breast milk effectively, keep the following in mind:

2.1. Use the Right Storage Containers

• Choose BPA-free plastic or glass containers made for breast milk storage.
• Specialized breast milk storage bags are also a great, hygienic option.
• Label each container or bag with the date and time it was pumped for easy tracking.

2.2. Seal Tightly

Ensure the lid or bag is tightly sealed to avoid air exposure, contamination, or nutrient loss.

2.3. Store in the Right Spot

• Avoid the fridge door where temperature fluctuates.
• Place the milk in the back of the main compartment, where it stays coldest and most stable.

3. How Long Can Breast Milk Be Stored in the Refrigerator?

Note: The longer milk is stored, the more natural antibodies may diminish. However, properly stored milk is still safe and nutritious.

4. Important Tips for Breast Milk Storage

• Do not mix freshly pumped milk with cold milk. Let the new milk cool in the fridge first.
• Do not shake milk vigorously. This can damage cellular structure.
• Avoid direct sunlight exposure.
• Keep milk away from raw or strong-smelling foods in the fridge.

5. How to Thaw and Warm Breast Milk Properly

5.1. Thawing

• Move the milk from the freezer to the fridge at least 12 hours before use.
• If in a hurry, place the sealed milk container in warm water (under 104°F / 40°C).

5.2. Warming

• Use a bottle warmer or place the bottle in warm water.
• Do not use a microwave—it creates hot spots that can burn the baby and destroy nutrients.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

6.1. How long can thawed breast milk last?

• In the fridge: Use within 24 hours.
• At room temperature: Use within 1–2 hours.

6.2. Can thawed breast milk be refrozen?

No. Refreezing thawed breast milk may destroy nutrients and increase the risk of bacterial contamination.

6.3. What if stored milk smells different?

• Frozen milk might smell slightly soapy due to natural enzymes (lipase), which is still safe.
• However, if it smells sour or rancid, discard it.

7. Conclusion

Breast milk can absolutely be refrigerated if stored correctly. This method gives moms flexibility and ensures that babies always have access to this precious source of nutrition. Proper storage preserves the milk’s quality and supports your baby’s healthy growth.

If you're preparing to return to work or simply need to stock up, follow the guidelines above to store breast milk with confidence and keep your baby well-fed and healthy!