Health Tip: Storing Breast Milk Safely

(HealthDay News) — If you’ve pumped breast milk, you’ll want to store it properly so it’s safe to drink at the next feeding.

The Mayo Clinic offers these guidelines:

Always wash hands carefully with soap and water. Choose a clean container that’s made of glass or BPA-free plastic, or storage bags made for breast milk.
Write the date that you expressed the milk on the container, and your baby’s name if storing outside your home. Use waterproof label and marker.
Store milk in the back of the refrigerator, where the temperature is coldest. It will stay safe for up to 5 days before you should use or freeze it.
You can also store breast milk in the freezer. Use it within 6 months.
Store enough milk in a single container for one feeding. If freezing, allow extra room for milk to expand.