How to Store and Protect Frozen Breast Milk During a Power Outage

Being prepared is key to navigating any emergency with confidence, especially when it comes to caring for your baby. For breastfeeding mothers, ensuring a safe supply of milk during events like hurricanes or power outages is a top priority. With a solid plan, you can protect your stored breast milk and continue to provide for your baby, no matter the circumstances.

Here are some effective strategies for safely storing breast milk before, during and after an emergency.

How do I prepare to store my breast milk before an emergency?

The most effective way to handle a crisis is to prepare for it in advance. Taking a few simple steps now can make a significant difference when you need it most.

Build a freezer stash

Begin storing extra breast milk in your freezer as soon as you feel comfortable with your supply. This reserve, often called a "freezer stash," serves as a crucial backup.

• Store in small amounts: Freeze milk in 2- to 4-ounce portions. Smaller batches thaw faster and reduce waste, as any leftover milk from a feeding must be discarded within two hours.
• Use proper storage bags: Use bags specifically designed for freezing breast milk. Lay them flat to freeze. This saves space and helps them thaw more quickly. Once frozen, you can group them upright in a container.
• Label everything: Clearly label each bag with the date it was expressed. This helps you follow the "first in, first out" rule, ensuring you use the oldest milk first to maintain quality.

How do I prepare my freezer to protect my breast milk?

An organized and well-maintained freezer will keep its contents frozen longer during a power outage.

• Keep it full: A full freezer stays colder longer than an empty one. If you have empty space, fill it with containers of water or freezer packs. These frozen blocks will help maintain the cold temperature.
• Group milk together: Store all your breast milk in one section of the freezer, preferably in the back and away from the door. This location is the coldest and least affected by temperature changes when the door is opened.
• Monitor the temperature: Place a thermometer in your freezer to ensure it stays at 0 degrees Fahrenheit or below, the ideal temperature for long-term storage.

How do I put together an emergency kit for my breast milk?

In addition to your family’s standard emergency supplies, create a specific kit for your feeding needs.

• Insulated cooler: Have a high-quality insulated cooler ready. This will become your temporary refrigerator or freezer if the power goes out.
• Frozen gel packs or ice: Stock up on freezer packs or make your own blocks of ice. These are essential for keeping the cooler at a safe temperature.
• Backup power source: If possible, invest in a small generator or a deep-cycle battery power station. These can power a small refrigerator or freezer, providing a reliable solution for extended outages. Even a car power adapter can be used to run certain small coolers or breast pump chargers.

How do I protect my frozen breast milk during an emergency? And how long is breast milk good in a power outage?

When the power goes out, your goal is to keep your frozen milk frozen for as long as possible. Your actions in the first few hours are critical.

Keep doors closed

Resist the urge to check on your milk. A full, closed freezer can keep its contents frozen for up to 48 hours. A half-full freezer will last about 24 hours. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors shut to preserve the cold air inside.

Transition to a cooler

If the power outage is expected to last longer than 24-48 hours, or if your milk begins to thaw, it’s time to move it to a cooler.

1. Prepare the cooler: Place a layer of frozen gel packs or ice at the bottom of your insulated cooler.
2. Transfer the milk: Quickly move the frozen milk from your freezer to the cooler. Place it in the center.
3. Pack it tight: Surround the milk with more ice packs or blocks of ice. Fill any empty space with towels or newspaper to reduce air circulation.
4. Store securely: Keep the cooler closed and in the coolest, darkest place in your home. Limit how often you open it. A well-packed cooler can keep milk frozen for 2-3 days.

What do I do if my frozen breast milk thaws?

It is important to understand the guidelines for thawed breast milk.

• Partially thawed (still contains ice crystals): If the milk still has visible ice crystals, it is considered partially frozen. It is safe to refreeze at this stage.
• Completely thawed: Once the milk has thawed completely but is still cold, it must be used within 24 hours. Do not refreeze thawed breast milk. Place it in the coolest part of your cooler or a functioning refrigerator and use it for your baby’s next feedings.

How long does breast milk last at room temperature?

If you are without refrigeration, you can keep thawed milk in the packed cooler and use it within that 24-hour window. Any milk that has reached room temperature should be used within two hours or discarded.

Can you refreeze thawed breast milk?

No, you do not want to refreeze breast milk that has completely thawed. Instead, place it in the coolest part of your cooler or a functioning refrigerator and use it for your baby’s next feedings.

How do I store my breast milk if I don’t have refrigeration?

In some emergency situations, you may be without any refrigeration for an extended period. This requires a different approach to feeding.

• Pump for immediate feedings: If you are with your baby, you can pump just enough for the next feeding. Freshly expressed breast milk is safe at room temperature (up to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) for up to four hours.
• Hand expression: If you do not have power for your electric pump, hand expression is a valuable skill. It allows you to relieve pressure, maintain your supply, and provide milk for your baby without any equipment. Practice this technique beforehand so you are comfortable with it.
• Manual pump: A manual breast pump is an excellent, non-electric backup to have in your emergency kit.

When in doubt about the safety of stored milk, it is always best to discard it. Your baby’s health is the priority. The rule is simple: When in doubt, throw it out.

We're here as your partner in health and preparedness

Navigating emergencies as a parent requires resilience and preparation. By taking proactive steps to protect your breast milk supply, you demonstrate incredible dedication to your child’s well-being. At Ochsner Health, we stand with you, providing expert guidance and support to help you feel confident and in control, even in uncertain times.

For more information on breastfeeding or to connect with one of our lactation consultants, visit our Women’s Services webpage.

Learn more about donating breast milk to the Mothers’ Milk Bank of Louisiana at Ochsner.