Breast milk storage bags have become a popular way for nursing mothers to store extra breast milk. But are they really necessary? Here is a look at the pros and cons of using breast milk storage bags.
What are breast milk storage bags?
Breast milk storage bags are plastic bags designed specifically for storing breast milk. They are tear-resistant, food-grade plastic bags that seal tightly to prevent leaks or spills. Most brands are pre-sterilized and ready to use straight out of the package.
Breast milk storage bags come in various sizes, usually holding between 2-6 ounces of milk per bag. They are disposable and intended for one-time use only. Most brands also include labels for dating and tracking milk storage.
Pros of Using Breast Milk Storage Bags
Here are some of the potential benefits of using breast milk storage bags:
- Convenience – Bags take up less space in the freezer or fridge compared to rigid containers. They are also lightweight and portable for transporting milk.
- Leak protection – Breast milk storage bags have a strong, tight seal to prevent leaks and spills. This protects your precious milk supply.
- Pre-sterilized – Most breast milk storage bags come pre-sterilized so you can use them right away.
- Cost-effective – Bags are a relatively affordable storage option compared to bottles and other containers.
- Disposable – You can simply toss bags after one use, avoiding the need to wash and sterilize storage containers.
- Organization – Bags allow you to store milk in smaller, dated portions to keep your freezer organized.
Cons of Using Breast Milk Storage Bags
However, there are also some potential downsides to using breast milk storage bags:
- Tears or punctures – Bags can potentially tear or get punctured, resulting in spilled or wasted milk. They are thinner than rigid containers.
- Limit oxygen exposure – Some research shows that milk stored in bags is exposed to more oxygen, which may affect nutrient quality.
- Storage capacity – Bags typically hold smaller volumes (2-6oz) compared to bottles or containers.
- Requires support – Filled bags need to be properly supported upright in the fridge or freezer.
- Single use – Breast milk storage bags are designed for one-time use and generate more plastic waste.
- Fat separation – Milk fat may separate and stick to sides of bag.
Alternatives to Breast Milk Storage Bags
If you decide breast milk storage bags are not for you, here are some alternate milk storage options:
- Plastic bottles – Both new and used plastic baby bottles, sippy cups, or water bottles can be used. Wash thoroughly and air dry fully before each use.
- Glass bottles – Glass bottles with tight sealing lids are great for reuse. Ensure proper cleaning between uses.
- Silicone storage – Food-grade silicone bags or pouches designed for breast milk storage. Can be reused.
- Stainless steel – Stainless steel bottles maintain temperature well and are durable for reuse.
- Mason jars – Canning jars make convenient milk storage containers. Use new lids each time.
Should You Use Breast Milk Storage Bags?
Whether you choose to use breast milk storage bags comes down to personal preference and convenience. Here are some key factors to consider when deciding:
- How much milk do you need to store? Bags are ideal for small volumes like a few ounces.
- Is minimizing plastic waste important to you? Reusable rigid containers may be better for the environment.
- Do you have limited space? Thin bags take up less room flat in the freezer.
- Will you transport milk? Bags are lightweight and leakproof for transport.
- Is cost a factor? Bags tend to be the cheapest storage option per use.
- Do you prefer disposable? Bags eliminate the need to wash and sterilize containers.
Breast milk storage guidelines recommend against storing milk in the following:
- Disposable bottle liners or food storage bags not designed for breast milk.
- Previously used commercial formula bottles or secondhand milk storage containers.
- Glass containers with lead-based glaze or pewter pitchers.
Proper storage guidelines should always be followed, regardless of the type of container used. Breast milk can safely be stored:
- At room temperature for up to 4 hours
- In the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- In the freezer for up to 6 months
Tips for Using Breast Milk Storage Bags
If you do choose to use breast milk storage bags, here are some handy tips:
- Lay bags flat in the freezer, rather than standing up. This prevents spillage if they happen to tip over.
- Put bags in rigid containers or milk storage trays to support their shape in the freezer.
- Label bags immediately with date expressed and amount.
- Store smaller 2-4oz portions to avoid waste.
- Gently mix milk after thawing and before feeding to redistribute separated milk fat.
- Don’t overfill bags – leave an inch of space at the top for expansion during freezing.
| Brand | Bag Capacity | Price Per Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Lansinoh | 6 oz | $0.25 |
| Medela | 5 oz | $0.33 |
| Philips Avent | 4 oz | $0.40 |
This table compares three top-rated brands of breast milk storage bags in terms of average storage capacity and price per bag.
Conclusion
Breast milk storage bags provide a convenient storage option for nursing mothers. But proper guidelines should be followed to safely store milk regardless of the type of container used.
The decision of whether to use disposable bags or reusable rigid containers comes down to personal preference and priorities. Both methods have pros and cons.
If opting to use bags, be cautious of potential punctures, tears or spills. But overall, breast milk storage bags offer an affordable, effective way to organize and transport smaller volumes of milk when proper precautions are taken.
