FEEDINGS
Breastmilk storage guidelines: General rule of thumb is 6-6-6
Freshly pumped breastmilk can be stored at room temperature for 6 hours
Refrigerated breastmilk can last for 6 days
Frozen breastmilk can be stored for 6 months
Breastmilk is very hearty and studies have shown it to last longer, but a general rule of thumb is 6-6-6 and to ensure you wash your bottles thoroughly after every use
Please note, premature or babies in the NICU should follow more stringent guidelines for breastmilk storage. The CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a 4:4:4 range.
To reheat breastmilk:
Do not put your breastmilk directly in the microwave. Warm water - tap or microwave, and let your bottle or bag of breastmilk warm in the warm water for a couple minutes prior to feeding Baby. Some babies do not mind cold milk though!
Formula is not as hearty as breastmilk and contains dairy, therefore there are more precautions about bacteria growth in formula.
Use or throw away prepared formula within 2 hours of preparation.
If you do not use prepared formula you can immediately store the formula in the refrigerator and use within 24 hours.
Throw away any formula left in the bottle after feeding Baby, it cannot be reused.
Store formula in a cool, dry place. Do not store unprepared formula in the refrigerator.
Most formula needs to be used within one month of opening. Please check the label of your formula.
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