If you’re expressing breast milk, whether occasionally or regularly, knowing how to store it safely can give you confidence, flexibility, and peace of mind.
This guide covers everything you need to know about breast milk storage at home and when out and about: how long it lasts, how to store it, and which Lansinoh products make the process easier and safer.
Why Safe Breast Milk Storage Matters
Breast milk is rich in nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes - but it’s also perishable. Storing it correctly helps prevent:
- Bacterial growth
- Nutrient breakdown
- Waste from expired milk
- Confusion over dated bottles or bags
By following a few simple NHS guidelines, you’ll make sure your baby always gets safe, high-quality milk.
Storage Guidelines: How Long Does Breast Milk Last?
These are the NHS’s latest recommendations for safely storing expressed breast milk:
| Storage Location | Temperature | Storage Time |
|---|---|---|
| Room temperature | Up to 25°C | Up to 6 hours |
| Refrigerator | 4°C or lower | Up to 6 days |
| Freezer (separate door) | -18°C or lower | Up to 6 months |
| Cool bag with ice packs | Under 15°C | Up to 24 hours |
Tip: Always store milk in the back of the fridge or freezer where temperatures are most stable.
How to Store Milk at Home
1. Choose the Right Containers
Use clean, sterile:
2. Label Every Bag or Bottle
- Write the date and time of expression
- Use the oldest milk first
Avoid mixing warm milk with already-chilled milk unless the new milk has been cooled in the fridge first.
3. Cool It Quickly
If you’re not using milk immediately:
- Cool it within 30 minutes
- Place it in the back of the fridge or directly in the freezer
Always use clean hands and equipment when handling expressed milk.
4. Store in Small Portions
Freeze or refrigerate in 60–120ml amounts to reduce waste - especially in the early weeks when baby feeds little and often.
You can always combine two small bags later (once thawed) if needed.
How to Thaw and Use Stored Breast Milk
- Thaw overnight in the fridge or under warm running water
- Gently swirl (don’t shake) to mix
- Use within 24 hours of thawing (in the fridge)
- Do not refreeze once thawed
- Never microwave breast milk - it creates hotspots and damages nutrients
Once your baby has started a bottle, use within 2 hours.
Safe Breast Milk Storage When You’re Out and About
Whether you're at the park, visiting family, or returning to work, portable milk storage is key to keeping milk safe and fresh.
Essentials for on-the-go storage:
- Cool bag with ice packs
- Pre-sterilised storage bags or bottles
- A thermal bottle bag or mini fridge for longer outings
If using a Lansinoh Pump, express directly into Lansinoh bottles or bags, then seal and cool immediately.
Milk Transport Tips
- Keep milk below 15°C with ice packs for up to 24 hours
- Use insulated cooler bags - some can fit up to 6 bottles
- Once home, transfer to the fridge or freezer as soon as possible
- If you're commuting with milk, ensure it's kept cold until you can refrigerate it
What If Baby Doesn’t Finish the Bottle?
- Discard any leftover milk 2 hours after baby starts feeding
- Don’t reuse or refreeze
- Use smaller amounts to start, then top up with more if needed
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Store milk in small batches to reduce waste
- Label clearly and rotate your freezer stash regularly
- Use Lansinoh milk storage bags for reliable, hygienic storage
- Keep a cooler bag in your change bag or car for expressing away from home
- Thaw in the fridge overnight to preserve nutrients
Safe milk storage doesn’t have to be complicated. With a bit of planning, and a few reliable tools, you can store and use breast milk confidently, wherever you are.
Whether you’re expressing once a week or every day, Lansinoh’s storage bags, pumps, and accessories help make your feeding journey smoother, safer, and more convenient.
