How to Store Breast Milk in Glass Bottles

Pumping and storing breast milk in glass bottles is the recommended method if you plan to store the milk in the freezer. Glass bottles offer the best protection against leakage and contamination. Sterilization of the bottles before collection isn't necessary as long as they are washed thoroughly with soap and hot water either by hand or in the dishwasher.

Instructions

1

Pump in 2 to 4 ounces of milk per bottle, making sure there is at least an inch of space left at the top of the bottle to allow for expansion during freezing. Two to 4 ounces is ideal because it will be consumed more quickly than a larger amount, ensuring less waste.

2

Cap the bottle with the lid securely, taking care not to get any liquid in the threading. This can cause cracking of the lid during the freezing process.

3

Place a piece of masking tape or a label on the bottle and record the date and amount of milk with a permanent marking pen.

4

Pack the bottles of breast milk in the open plastic container and store in the back part of the refrigerator or freezer. Keeping the bottles in a container will ensure easy access and guard against contamination.