Storing and warming breast milk

Fresh breast milk keeps 4 hours at room temperature, 4 days in the fridge (back shelf, not the door), and 6 months in the freezer. Thawed milk should be used within 24 hours and never refrozen. Label every container with the date pumped. Never microwave breast milk. It destroys immune components, creates dangerous hot spots, and can burn your baby's mouth. Warm the bottle by placing it in a bowl of warm (not hot) water for a few minutes. Swirl the bottle gently to mix the fat back in — don't shake, which can damage the delicate protein structure. Test on your inner wrist before offering; body temperature or slightly cool are both fine. Some babies drink breast milk cold straight from the fridge without complaint.