Quick and Easy: Freezing Breast Milk with Flat Storage Bags

For breastfeeding mothers, the convenience of pumping and storing breast milk can be a game-changer. Freezing breast milk can allow you to build up a stash for when you need it, whether you are returning to work, going on a trip, or simply want to have some extra on hand. Flat storage bags from Priver are a popular choice for freezing breast milk due to their space-saving design and ease of use. In this article, we will guide you through the process of freezing breast milk using flat storage bags in a quick and easy manner.

Preparation

Gather Your Supplies

• Flat storage bags specifically designed for breast milk storage
• Permanent marker for labeling
• Clean storage containers for transportation

Wash Your Hands

Before handling breast milk, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.

Expressing and Storing Breast Milk

Expressing Breast Milk

Use a breast pump to express your breast milk. Make sure to follow the instructions provided with your breast pump for best results.

Labeling the Storage Bags

Write the date and time of expressing on the flat storage bag using a permanent marker. This will help you keep track of the freshness of the breast milk.

Filling the Storage Bags

Pour the expressed breast milk into the flat storage bag. Leave some space at the top of the bag to allow for expansion when freezing.

Removing Air and Sealing

Gently press out any excess air from the storage bag before sealing it securely. Make sure the seal is tight to prevent any leakage during freezing.

Freezing Breast Milk

Choosing the Freezing Location

Place the filled and sealed flat storage bags of breast milk in the back of the freezer where the temperature is most consistent. Avoid placing them in the door or near the front of the freezer.

Stacking for Freezing

You can stack the flat storage bags flat on top of each other to maximize space in the freezer. Make sure they are arranged in a way that allows for even freezing.

Freezing Time

Allow the breast milk to freeze completely. This usually takes around 6-12 hours depending on the temperature of your freezer.

Thawing and Using Frozen Breast Milk

Thawing in the Refrigerator

The safest way to thaw frozen breast milk is by placing the flat storage bag in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps retain the milk's quality.

Thawing in Warm Water

If you need to thaw the breast milk quickly, you can place the sealed storage bag in a container of warm water. Do not use hot water as it can destroy the nutrients in the breast milk.

Using Thawed Breast Milk

Once thawed, gently swirl the flat storage bag to mix the layers of milk that may have separated during freezing. You can then pour the breast milk into a feeding bottle for your baby.

Additional Tips

Storage Duration

• Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Frozen breast milk can be stored in a deep freeze for up to 12 months. However, using it within 6 months is ideal for retaining its nutritional value.

Do Not Refreeze

Avoid refreezing thawed breast milk. Once it has been thawed, it should be used within 24 hours, and any leftovers should be discarded.

Check for Spoilage

Before feeding your baby with thawed breast milk, make sure to check for any signs of spoilage such as an off smell or unusual color. Discard the milk if you have any concerns.

With the simple steps outlined above, you can easily freeze breast milk using flat storage bags for convenient storage and feeding. Remember to always prioritize hygiene and safety when handling breast milk for your little one's well-being.