The ultimate guide to Breast Milk Storage Bags – Every mother should know this!
- , by Haarspullen.nl
- 9 min reading time
You’ve decided to breastfeed your little one. What a beautiful choice! Breastmilk is packed with nutrients and antibodies that help your baby grow and thrive. But what if you return to work, want an evening out, or simply want to build a stash of breastmilk? Then breastmilk storage bags are your best friend. In this ultimate guide, we dive deeper into the world of breastfeeding bags.
What are breastmilk storage bags?
Breastmilk storage bags are specially designed to store your expressed breastmilk. They’re sterile, leak-proof, and often feature handy measurements so you know exactly how much milk you’ve stored. These breastmilk bags are ideal for mothers who want to build a supply. There can be many reasons for this, but having a stock of liquid gold is always a good idea ♡
Why would you want to store breastmilk?
There are many reasons to store your breastmilk, but whatever your reason – it’s totally okay :)
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Back to work: Unfortunately, work calls again, but that’s a good reason to start building a stash early. When you’re working, you can still feed your baby your breastmilk.
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Free time: An evening out with your Man or a coffee with a friend.
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Medical reasons: If you need medication incompatible with breastfeeding, you can express and store milk in advance.
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Building a supply: The reassuring thought that breastmilk is always available if needed.
What are breastmilk storage bags made of?
Most bags are made from food-safe plastic, free from harmful substances like BPA (Bisphenol A). This keeps your breastmilk pure and safe for your little one, which is exactly what you want. Some brands also offer eco-friendly options made from sustainable materials. While frozen expressed milk contains slightly fewer nutrients than fresh milk, you want to keep it as pure as possible.
Which are the best breastmilk storage bags?
There are many brands and types on the market. Here are a few favourites often recommended by mothers. The best breastfeeding bags vary because every mom’s needs differ. However, generally, there are key features every mother desires ♡
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Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags: Known for durability and double zip-lock that prevents leaks. Also pre-sterilised, saving you time.
- Haakaa Silicone Breastmilk Storage Bags: An affordable option with a sturdy seal and space to note date and amount of milk.
Which breastmilk storage bags are BPA-free?
Choosing BPA-free bags is essential to avoid harmful substances ending up in your breastmilk. Thankfully, most baby brands are aware and offer BPA-free breastmilk products. Both Lansinoh and Medela bags are BPA-free, ensuring safe storage of your precious milk.
Are there reusable breastmilk storage bags?
Yes, reusable options exist for eco-conscious mothers. These bags are usually made of silicone or other durable materials and can be used again after thorough cleaning. It’s important to follow instructions to ensure hygiene. Haakaa Silicone Breastmilk Storage Bags are highly recommended, especially if you don’t need a large supply or want something for fridge storage. Using standard disposable bags for fridge storage will quickly deplete your stock ;)
What’s the difference between storage bags, bottles, or containers?
As you know, both bags and bottles or containers are for storing breastmilk, but the choice depends on what suits you best. It has to fit your daily life and how you handle things. Do you want to reuse them for other purposes, or dispose of them after breastfeeding? Reasons vary, so we’ve listed the advantages of each below ;)
Storage bags:
- Save space and can be frozen flat.
- Ideal for building a larger supply.
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Usually single-use, unless opting for reusable versions (which can be pricey)
Bottles or containers:
- Reusable and often made from glass or hard plastic.
- Suitable for smaller amounts of milk.
- Take up more freezer space.
We offer two types of breastmilk storage containers. Both are convenient and also suitable for baby food, which is ideal and cost-saving!
The choice depends on your personal preference and how much storage space you have. Also, it depends on what you plan to use them for later.
How to warm breastmilk storage bags?
When warming breastmilk, it’s important to do so gently to preserve nutrients. This is crucial. Below is a simple step-by-step guide you can follow ♡
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Step one: Take the bag out of the freezer and thaw it in the fridge or under cold running water.
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Step two: Place the bag in a bowl of warm water to gently warm the milk. Also known as au bain marie.
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Step three: Pour the warmed milk into a bottle and check the temperature before feeding your baby.
Avoid microwaving, as it can cause hotspots and destroy the milk’s nutritional value.
Which breastmilk storage bags are the cheapest?
If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, some brands offer quality bags at lower prices. However, it’s important to look beyond price and consider quality and safety. Make sure the bags are BPA-free and have a good seal to prevent leaks. A double seal is the best.
What are sustainable breastmilk storage bags?
For the eco-conscious mums among us, there are more sustainable alternatives. Sustainable breastmilk storage bags are reusable, made from environmentally friendly materials, and free of harmful substances. Some good options are:
- Silicone storage bags: These are flexible, reusable, and easy to clean. A great example is the Haakaa silicone breastmilk bags - 5 pcs.
- Biodegradable bags: Some brands offer compostable or biodegradable options to reduce plastic use.
- Glass bottles or containers: Although they take up more space, glass containers are a durable alternative that lasts for years. We have two options in our range, Lansinoh Breastmilk Bottles 4 x 160ml and Haakaa Breastmilk and Baby Food Storage Containers
Sustainability means not only better for the environment but often more cost-effective in the long run! And that’s what we want, right!
What are the best breastmilk storage bags?
We’ve listed some top picks that score well on quality, safety, and ease of use. These breastmilk products are available from us ♡
1. Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags
✔️ BPA- and BPS-free
✔️ Double closure to prevent leaks
✔️ Pre-sterilised
✔️ Extra durable material
Why choose? These are the absolute favourites among mothers! Reliable, strong, and leak-proof. Lansinoh is a brand really for mothers, supporting the breastfeeding period and recovery before, during, and after birth ♡
2. Medela Breastmilk Storage Bags
✔️ Leak-proof, double seal
✔️ Freezes flat to save space
✔️ Made from food-grade material
✔️ Pre-sterilised
Why choose? Ideal if you want to build a large supply because they take up little freezer space.
3. Haakaa Reusable Breastmilk Storage Bags
✔️ Reusable (sustainable)
✔️ Can be expressed into directly
✔️ Can be drunk from directly
✔️ Free from BPA, PVC, and phthalates
Why choose? A great option if you want more than just a breastmilk storage bag. You can also use it as a squeeze pouch for fruit puree later ♡
Where can I ask questions about breastfeeding bags?
You’ve now read everything about breastmilk storage bags: from materials to sustainability and top choices on the market. Whatever your choice, make sure the bags are safe, BPA-free, and practical to use. If you’re still unsure after reading this blog, feel free to contact our lovely Team. Send your question to info@haarspullen.nl, and we’ll do our best to reply within 24 hours. Tip – the more information you provide, the clearer and more helpful our answer will be to support your breastfeeding journey ♡
Want more great breastmilk storage products? Then we recommend checking out Breastmilk Storage.
We aim to inform you as best as possible so you can place your order with confidence. At Haarspullen, we also have ongoing great deals and discounts. Sign up for the newsletter for exclusive deals, favourites, and the latest items!
Do you have experience with storing breastmilk? Share your tips and stories in the comments!
