Preparing for breastfeeding can be an exciting but overwhelming task for new parents. Along with a breast pump, breast milk storage bags are a crucial accessory for storing and organizing breast milk (1).
Breast milk storage bags come in various sizes and types, including those designed for refrigeration, freezing, or use with a breast pump. Some even cater to travel needs. These bags help maintain the freshness and safety of your milk supply, ensuring your little one receives optimal nutrition. A breast pump bag might also be handy if you plan to bring a couple of these to work or somewhere.
To help you avoid the guesswork and potential mishaps, we have researched and reviewed the best breast milk storage bags on the market. So, you can focus on your baby’s needs without worrying about the safety and quality of your milk supply.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Breast Milk Storage Bag: Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags
- Most Accurate Breast Milk Storage Bag: Dr. Brown’s Breastmilk Storage Bags
- Best No-Leak Breast Milk Storage Bag: NUK Simply Natural Seal n’ Go Breast Milk Bags
- Best Breast Milk Storage Bags For Freezer: Ameda Pump’N Protect Breast Milk Storage Bags
- Best Breast Milk Storage Bags For Travel: Kiinde Twist Pouch Breast Milk Storage Bags
- Best Easy-To-Use Breast Milk Storage Bags: Medela Breast Milk Storage Bags
- Best Space-Saving Breast Milk Storage Bags: Nanobébé Breastmilk Storage Bags
- Best Recyclable Breast Milk Storage Bags: Willow Pump Spill-Proof Breast Milk Bags
- Best Breast Milk Storage Bags For Large Quantity: Milkies Breast Milk Storage Bags
In This Article
HappyBabyHub’s Best Breast Milk Storage Bags Picks
Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags – Best Overall Breast Milk Storage Bag
- They lay flat and are compact which allows you to store a larger volume in a smaller amount of space
- You can pump directly into the bag with most standard pumps
- One of the cheapest in price
- Side edges are sealed a little bit in so that these bags can fit in a storage bin that is exactly 4in wide
- Slightly trapezoid shaped. When stacking them in the freezer, you will have to make some adjustments
This set includes 100 bags, ensuring you’ll always have plenty on hand. The bags have easy-to-use features such as an easy-write label and pour spout, making filling and storing your breastmilk a breeze. You can safely store up to 6 ounces of milk in each bag, and they can be laid flat or stored upright in the refrigerator or freezer. Trust us, these bags will make your breastfeeding journey so much easier!
Dr. Brown’s Breastmilk Storage Bags – Most Accurate Breast Milk Storage Bag
- The print on the bags are big and clearly visible
- It has measurements in both ml and oz
- It has a white label at the top of the bag for the name and date
- It has a double zip lock to prevent spillage
- It only goes up to 6 oz per bag
Dr. Brown’s Breast Milk Storage Bags are top-notch when it comes to preserving and keeping your breast milk secure. These bags have an extra-durable construction, featuring extra outer trim for cushioning in case of accidental drops. The extra-thick material of the bag helps to maintain the freshness of the milk, while the double zip closures ensure that air doesn’t get inside.
This is designed with a gusseted bottom, making it easy to lay flat for storage or keep upright. What’s more, these bags come pre-sterilized, so they’re ready for storage right away. The labeling is easy to read, allowing you to add a freshness date and your baby’s name before sending them off to daycare.
With 50 unique 6 oz/180 ml Breast Milk Storage Bags in each package, you’ll have plenty of room to store and preserve your breast milk.
NUK Simply Natural Seal n’ Go Breast Milk Bags – Best No-Leak Breast Milk Storage Bag
- For transport – as they cool faster in my work fridge than bottles and lay flat against an ice pack
- Freeze flat
- Made in the USA, BPA free
- Thicker in texture compared to other break milk bags
- The non-rectangular shape makes freezing storage a little more difficult when compared to other bags
These innovative storage bags are designed to make the milk storage process more efficient and feature a leak-proof double zipper seal. They can easily fit most disposable bottle holders and come in sets of 25, 50, and 100-count.
One of the best features of these bags is the capacity indicators on the front that allow you to see how much milk is in each bag. You can also store them upright in the freezer for easy access and quick defrosting during mealtime.
To help you keep track of the milk’s age, these freezer storage bags have a designated space for you to write the date on the bag.
Ameda Pump’N Protect Breast Milk Storage Bags – Best Breast Milk Storage Bags For Freezer
- Very thick
- You can pump directly through them
- They maintain a symmetrical/straight shape when they freeze so it optimizes storage space as bags line up flush together
- Easy to fill
- Difficult to get somewhat of an accurate measurement
These bags have a double zip seal and strengthened side seams, so you can be sure that there will be no leakage during storage or transportation. The gusset bottom allows the bag to stand up or lay flat during freezing and thawing, making it very convenient for you. When you are ready to transfer the milk, simply pour it from the flexible bag into a bottle.
These bags are pre-sterilized, BPA-free, and designed to lay flat for easy freezing and thawing. This will help to preserve the essential vitamins and minerals in your breast milk. They are a durable and flexible storage option that you can rely on to keep your milk safe for your little one.
Kiinde Twist Pouch Breast Milk Storage Bags – Best Breast Milk Storage Bags For Travel
- The bags will stand on their own even with only an oz or so of milk which is great when you’re double pumping
- They twist onto the adapter
- Recyclable where facilities exist
- The screw top is very tight
- Take up more space in the freezer than the typical storage bag (due to the screw top)
These pouches are not only portable and convenient but also eco-friendly, as they can be recycled after use. The twist-locking closures securely attach to pumps from most major manufacturers for leak-free, transfer-free pumping directly into the pouch.
The highly visible labeling surface ensures that you can keep track of the date and quantity of milk easily. Plus, the Twist Pouches are free of phthalates, PVC, and BPA, ensuring that they are safe for your little one.
The self-standing pouches lay flat for easy and condensed storage in your freezer, and defrost quickly, making mealtime a breeze. Each box contains 20 pre-sterilized Twist Pouches with twist-locking closures.
Medela Breast Milk Storage Bags – Best Easy-To-Use Breast Milk Storage Bags
- The bags stand up on their own
- Thicker plastic, firmer bags
- Easier to write on these bags
- Individually sealed
- Harder to mix the milk in the bag
These bags feature a double-zipper closure and are hygienically pre-sealed with strong material to prevent any leakage.
Whether you’re traveling or storing breastmilk in the fridge or freezer, these bags provide the safety and security you need. The bags are made of durable, double-layer polyester and include a spacious write-on area, allowing you to record essential details like the date and time of pumping.
When it’s time to feed your little one, the Medela Breast Milk Storage Bags also feature a rapid thawing function for frozen milk. To make your life easier, Medela also includes a free resealable transfer pouch to keep your unused bags organized and clean.
Nanobébé Breastmilk Storage Bags – Best Space-Saving Breast Milk Storage Bags
- Bags are thick, preventing leaks
- Freezes the milk thinly
- Easy to defrost
- Labeling area to put milk info
- Bags are oddly shaped
With a 50-count refill, these bags fit perfectly in nanobébé’s vertical breast milk storage container, using the “first in, first out” principle, or can be used on their own.
With double zippers, these bags securely seal your breast milk, keeping it free from contaminants and bacteria. And thanks to their unique geometry, the bags lay flat, minimizing the chance of bacterial growth during heating and cooling.
But the benefits don’t stop there! With nanobébé’s breast milk freezer bags, you can thaw and warm breast milk twice as fast without sacrificing the important nutrients it contains, all thanks to their small, shallow shape.
Willow Pump Spill-Proof Breast Milk Bags – Best Recyclable Breast Milk Storage Bags
- Very convenient for use on-the-go
- Quick release
- Easy to use
- Does not leak
- A bit expensive
These game-changing bags are designed to provide you with complete freedom to pump on the go and toss the bags in your backpack or cooler without any leaks. Thanks to their innovative no-spill technology, you can pump in any position, and their self-sealing one-way valve ensures milk stays put without any need for transfer or sealing.
The BPA-free bags are reusable and can hold up to 4 ounces of milk each, allowing you to double pump up to 8 ounces. Plus, you can monitor the milk volume in real-time with the Willow app, making it easier than ever to keep track of your pumping.
Milkies Breast Milk Storage Bags – Best Breast Milk Storage Bags For Large Quantity
- Bags are very strong
- Easy to open
- It has a label area for if your baby is in daycare and can put down the date
- Easy to seal
- Measurements on bags are not the most accurate
These bags are designed to prevent milk leakage and are reinforced to ensure they don’t break in the freezer. Pour milk into them without a single drop wasted, thanks to the clever design that stands the bag up.
They are also pre-sterilized and ready to use straight out of the box. Before filling the bag, make sure to label it with your name, the date, and the number of ounces you’re storing. Pour your milk into the bag by opening the zippers, and once the first 1-2 ounces are in, the bag will stand up on its own.
To seal the bag firmly, align the zippers and push them together along the length of the bag. When you’re ready, store the bag in the refrigerator or freezer, laying it flat for long-term storage. Don’t worry about the process, the breast storage instructions printed on each bag make it easy to manage milk!
How To Choose The Best Breast Milk Storage Bag?
- Cost: Given that the majority of breast pump bags are single-use, you should think about how many you will use each day, week, and month, as well as the total cost. How many bags you’ll require depends on a variety of factors, including whether you want to pump solely, how much milk you can make in a single session, and how long you expect to pump.
- Adapters: Pumping directly into the bags is a typical feature that makes the operation simpler. However, this is often only supported if the storage bag and breast pump are both from the same manufacturer. Check to see whether the mix-match you are using has its own adapters.
- Material: Plastic is often used to make breast milk storage bags and is particularly cost-effective. Make sure the bag is BPA-free if you prefer to use plastic.
- Durability: You’ll be angry if you put it in the refrigerator or freezer and it develops a hole. And when I say upset, I mean real tears. Make sure you select milk bags that can endure being tightly packed in a freezer and are impervious to tears, leaks, and punctures.
- Size: The sizes of milk storage bags range from around four ounces to eight ounces. You should use a two to four-ounce bag if your child is less than 6 weeks old (2). The size of the bag should increase as your infant drinks more milk.
Storage Bottles Vs. Milk Storage Bags
Whether you should keep breast milk in bottles or bags really depends on your requirements and environment. Breast milk may be transported easily, is disposable, and takes up less room when stored in bags. Breast milk kept in bottles is more economical and less likely to leak or spill.
Many women use bags to preserve breast milk because they don’t need to be cleaned. This can be particularly helpful if you need to pump and preserve breast milk at work, have a nanny or babysitter, or freeze breast milk.
Bottles for preserving breast milk are more robust than plastic bags. They have a screw-on cover and are available in glass or plastic. These bottles can tolerate being banged by boxes in a refrigerator or moved around in a cooler better.
How Do I Use Breast Milk Storage Bags?
- Wash your hands with soap and water before handling the storage bag (3).
- Open the bag and write the date and time on the label. This will help you keep track of when the milk was expressed.
- Use a breast pump to express the milk directly into the bag, or you can pour the milk from a bottle into the bag.
- Squeeze out any excess air and seal the bag tightly, making sure the seal is completely closed to prevent leaks.
- Lay the bag flat in the refrigerator or freezer to allow for easy storage and to maximize space.
- When you’re ready to use the milk, thaw it in the refrigerator or warm it up in a bottle warmer or a bowl of warm water.
How Many Breast Milk Storage Bags Do You Need?
Whether you pump into bags or not, as well as how much excess you’ll need to store, will determine how much you need to pump. You will require twice as many pumps as you would be pumping throughout each session if you are pumping into bags.
Start with around 30 bags when you first start pumping, then increase or decrease as you become more familiar with your routine. On the same day, some ladies breastfeed in the morning. Some people may return to work with extra milk and immediately freeze everything. If you’re returning to work, aim for roughly 30 ounces rather than filling the entire freezer.
What Is The Best Storage For Breast Milk?
Milk that has just been pumped or expressed can be kept for up to 4 hours at ambient temperature (77°F or lower) or for up to 4 days in the refrigerator (4). The optimal storage period is up to 12 months in the freezer, but 6 months is recommended (5). Although milk may be frozen practically indefinitely and remain safe, it is still crucial to adhere to prescribed storage durations for maximum quality.
Can I Reuse Breast Milk Storage Bags?
Most storage bags for breastmilk are disposable and not designed to be reused. However, other brands, such as those constructed of thicker, harder plastic or silicone materials, are specially designed to be reused. It’s vital to remember, though, that you should only repurpose them for a finite amount of time, as they can start to deteriorate and lose their potency with time. To find out if the bags are reusable, you need also carefully review the manufacturer’s information.
Can You Warm Breast Milk In Storage Bags?
Breast milk may be warmed and stored in bags. But be careful not to overheat the milk, as this might damage the nutrients. The milk should be warmed in a water bath, and the temperature should be checked before giving it to your infant.
Milk is often ideal for newborns at room temperature. Before usage, thaw frozen milk in the refrigerator. You may reheat chilled milk by putting it in a dish of warm water and then gently stirring it to mix.
How To Thaw Breast Milk Storage Bags?
One way to thaw frozen breast milk is to place the bag in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes (6). The frozen bags can also defrost in the refrigerator for 12 hours, under warm running water, or by sitting in a container of warm water.
However, never defrost or reheat breast milk in the microwave because it might create hot spots that could burn your infant. Additionally, avoid letting frozen breast milk defrost on the counter since this might encourage the growth of dangerous bacteria.
Does It Matter What Milk Storage Bags You Use?
Any kind of storage bag will work if you just plan to keep milk for a short time. Just be aware that while breast milk can be stored in BPA-free plastic or freezer-safe glass containers, you should avoid any containers produced with bisphenol A or S.
However, it is recommended to use a storage bag that is specially made for milk storage if you plan to keep milk for a longer amount of time. These storage bags are constructed from a substance that helps milk remain fresher for longer periods of time.
Can I Use Ziploc Bags For Breast Milk?
When storing breast milk, it’s crucial to use breast milk-specific bags because Ziplocs and other non-sterile storage bags are not sterile. Bags made specifically for breast milk are made to be sterile and stop the growth of bacteria, which can harm infants.
How Will I Know If Breast Milk Is Spoiled?
If you’re wondering whether your breast milk is spoiled, there are a few things you can look for. First, check the color of the milk. If it’s starting to look yellow or brown, it’s probably beginning to spoil. You can also give the milk a smell test; if it smells sour or rancid, it’s probably bad. Finally, give the milk a taste test; if it’s sour or bitter, it’s probably gone bad. If you’re not sure whether the milk is bad, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.
