Postpartum1 min readUpdated May 31, 2026

Storing breast milk safely

Room temperature, refrigerator, and freezer timelines for expressed milk — based on CDC and WHO storage guidance.

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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.

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