Storing breast milk: Overview

If you have breast milk left after a feeding, use it within 2 hours after your baby has finished.

Freshly pumped or hand-expressed breast milk can be stored:
At room temperature (77°F (25°C) or colder) for **4 hours**.
In the fridge (40°F (4°C)) for **4 days**.
In the freezer (0°F (-18°C) or colder) for **6 to 12 months**.

Thawed breast milk that was previously frozen can be stored:
At room temperature (77°F (25°C) or colder) for **1 to 2 hours**.
In the fridge (40°F (4°C)) for **1 day (24 hours)**.
Don't refreeze thawed breast milk.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: May 1, 2026

Author: WebMD Ignite Staff

Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.