Breast-Pumps & Storage

Many mothers return to the workplace while their babies are still young and want to continue breastfeeding. Luckily, breast-milk is safe and easy to store and there are a number of good breast-pumps available on the market. Breast pumps range from simple, manual models to top-of-the line electric and portable pumps. The Medela Pump-In-Style is a top seller as are the Ameda and Evenflo models. 

Once breast milk is expressed it can be stored in a number of different ways. If the breast milk is needed for more immediate use it can be left out at room temperature for up to twelve hours. Otherwise, the breast milk can either be placed in storage bottles or specially made storage bags and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Newly expressed breast milk will stay fresh approximately one week in the refrigerator. Milk placed on the door of the freezer can last up to six months whereas milk placed inside the freezer lasts for four months. However, once the breast milk is defrosted it should be used within 24 hours or discarded. 

To warm breast milk that has been refrigerated or defrosted, simply place the bottle into a bowl or cup with hot water. Do not microwave breast milk as this destroys its nutrients and antibodies. After warming a bottle it is important to shake it to ensure an even temperature throughout and to test that it is not too hot for the baby’s mouth. There are also a number of electric baby bottle warmers available from companies such as Avent that are portable and easy to use.