How to build a freezer stash

How much milk will my baby need while I'm gone?

Count the feeds your baby will take while you're apart, and multiply by the ounces your baby drinks at each one. Include your commute in that time.

If you nurse right before you leave and as soon as you're back, those feeds don't need a bottle.

If you don't know how much your baby drinks at a feed, ask your pediatrician. They can estimate it from your baby's weight and how often your baby feeds.

When should I start pumping for a stash?

Once breastfeeding is well established, usually after about four weeks. La Leche League suggests starting then: pump after one feeding a day, when your breasts still feel a little full. Expect a small amount, because you're pumping what's left after a feed.

Start a few weeks before your first day apart.

If you already pump for bottles, the CDC recommends freezing milk right away when you won't use it within 4 days. That milk may be enough to build your stash without an extra session.

Our Pump-to-Bag Adapter lets you pump directly into a storage bag. Skipping the pour from bottle to bag can help prevent spills.

How should I freeze breast milk?

In small, labeled portions, with room to expand. Follow these five habits when you freeze milk:

• Pick the right container: The CDC recommends bags made for storing breast milk, or clean, food-grade containers. Never use disposable bottle liners or plastic bags that aren't made for breast milk.
• Freeze small portions: The CDC suggests 2 to 4 oz, or the amount your baby takes at one feed.
• Leave room at the top: Milk expands as it freezes, so the CDC advises about an inch of space. La Leche League also recommends squeezing the air out of a bag before you seal it.
• Label every bag: Write the date you pumped the milk. If it goes to childcare, add your baby's name.
• Store it toward the back: Keep milk out of the freezer door, where the temperature changes each time the door opens.

How long does frozen breast milk last?

Within 6 months is best, and up to 12 months is acceptable, according to the CDC. The CDC's rule is first in, first out: thaw the oldest milk first, because milk quality can decrease over time.

Group your bags by the week you froze them, with the oldest week in front. A bin or a gallon zip bag for each week keeps the groups apart.

Our Zomee Milk Storage Bags have a space to write the name, date, and time, and you can store them flat or upright to save freezer space.

For room temperature, the refrigerator, and leftover milk, see our milk storage guidelines.

How do I thaw frozen breast milk?

The CDC lists three ways: overnight in the refrigerator, in a container of warm or lukewarm water, or under lukewarm running water. Never thaw or heat breast milk in a microwave.

If you thaw milk in the refrigerator, the CDC says to use it within 24 hours. Start counting when it's completely thawed, not when it leaves the freezer.

Thawed milk keeps 1 to 2 hours at room temperature. Once it's warmed, use it within 2 hours. Never refreeze milk that has thawed.

How do I get milk home from work or to daycare?

In an insulated cooler with frozen ice packs. The CDC says milk can stay in one for up to 24 hours while you travel. When you arrive, use the milk, refrigerate it, or freeze it.

Our Packable Breast Milk Cooler and Storage Bottles includes a cooler bag, two ice packs, and four storage bottles with caps.

Where to get help

Call The Mom Line™ at 1-888-662-7159 for pump, sizing, parts, and support questions. Real moms and certified lactation consultants answer it.

If you're worried about how much milk you make, plan to pump exclusively, or feel uncomfortably full after extra sessions, talk to a lactation consultant (IBCLC). For pain or fever, call your provider.

Questions moms ask