Storing breast milk safely
Room temperature, refrigerator, and freezer timelines for expressed milk — based on CDC and WHO storage guidance.
Bầu Ăn Gì? Team · References CDC, WHO
Refrigerator (4°C / 39°F)
Freshly expressed milk: typically up to 4 days in the back of the fridge (check local guidelines). Store in clean, sealed containers.
Freezer
- Freezer compartment inside fridge: often up to 2 weeks.
- Separate freezer door: often up to 3–6 months.
- Deep freezer: often up to 6–12 months.
Thawed milk should not be refrozen.
Room temperature
Use within about 4 hours if the room is cool and the milk was freshly expressed; shorter in warm climates. When in doubt, refrigerate promptly.
Thawing
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or under lukewarm running water. Swirl gently — do not microwave. Use within 24 hours after full thaw.
Labeling
Write date and time on each bag; use oldest milk first.