Seal the Freshness: Top Picks for the Best Breast Milk Storage Bags

Best Breast Milk Storage Bags

Whether you are planning on feeding your baby exclusively breast milk, or are planning on supplementing with milk and formula, you will need a great storage system for the breast milk.  This is especially true for mothers who are planning on returning to work but still don’t want to give up on feeding their child breast milk.  While there are many different systems for not only collecting, but also storing breast milk out there, one way has remained simple and trusted for years.  This is using breast milk bags to store the milk.  Unlike other containers, like jars and cups, breast milk storage bags can lay flat so that you can store more milk at a time.  While this may seem like a tricky task to perfect, it is actually easier than you may think.

How does it work?

In order to make sure that you are properly storing and serving breast milk, make sure to follow these steps and in no time you will be an expert!

Using a breast pump:

First you must start by pumping your milk.  Don’t worry about this weakening your supply of breast milk to actually feed your child.  A woman’s body is an amazing thing and in no time you will find that your milk supply will adjust to your ever changing needs.  Start slow by pumping in between feedings and in no time you will find that you can help your supply almost double over time.  

Transfer the milk:

When you pump you will either be pumping into a container or a bottle that will directly attach to your breast pump.  It is very important to make sure that whichever container you are using is completely clean and sterilized before using.  This is because you will then need to transfer the milk into a storage bag and you don’t want any cross contamination of germs or bacteria. Once you are done collecting the milk, very carefully transfer the milk to the milk storage bags.  Better quality milk bags will stand up on their own to make this process easier, but to prevent the bag from tipping over place it inside a cup to help keep it up right.

Label the bag:

Most breast milk storage bags allow you to write directly on them which make labeling super easy.  This is because these bags are often disposable so writing on them with a market will do no harm.  Label each bag with the date and time of collection.  This is the only way to know for sure that the milk you are using is fresh.  You don’t want to play the guessing game when it comes to the breast milk you will be feeding to your child.

Storing the milk:

When it comes to actually storing the milk, you have a few different options.  You can either choose to store the milk in your fridge or in your freezer.  A good rule of thumb is to store milk in the freezer but to also always keep a few fresh milk bags in the fridge for those emergency feedings when you don’t have time to thaw the milk.  When storing the milk make sure that you always rotate the milk from back to front depending on the collection date so that you are always using the milk in rotation.  This will also help you to not waste milk.  If you ware planning on sending your child to day care or to a relative’s house while you are at work, it is a good idea to even get a cooler.  This way you can send the frozen stored milk along with them wherever they go.

Serving the milk:

Once you are ready to serve your child the stored breast milk, simply remove the breast milk bag that is closest to the front and thaw.  You can either thaw out the milk directly in the bag in a pot of hot water or in a bottle warmer.  These bags will be tough enough to withstand high heat.  Just never throw them in the microwave because that is the quickest way to spoil a good batch of breast milk.  Once the milk is thawed and warmed up, you can throw away the milk bag and go about your day.  It really is that easy.

What to look for in a breast milk storage bag

If you have decided that using breast milk storage bags are the way to go, there are a few things you should always look for when shopping around.  Here are some of the key features to look for so that you know that you are getting a quality product:

• BPA Free:

This is a good rule of thumb with any baby product.  Breast milk storage bags are made out of plastic, and BPA is often found in plastic items.  BPA is a chemical in the plastic then when exposed to high temperatures can release a certain toxin that can be harmful.  Because you will be heating up milk in these bags it is important to make sure that they are 100% BPA and toxin free.

• Easy to label:

Many of the best breast milk storage bags will feature a space right on the front for you to write on.  Sometimes they will even have specific space for you to write the date and the time.  Having this right on the front of the bag serves as a great reminder to always label the milk right away before storing it.

• Tear free:

You obviously want to make sure that you have found a breast milk storage bag that is strong.  This is especially true if you are planning on doing a lot of traveling.  Look for a storage bag that is made out of strong, yet flexible, plastic so that you know you are getting a durable and high quality product that won’t tear or rip.

• Leak Free:

All breast milk storage bags will have a seal to protect the milk, but this doesn’t always mean that they are leak free.  Some milk storage bags even feature a double seal lock that guarantees no leaks will happen.  There is nothing worse that storing a week’s worth of milk just to find that they were not sealed properly and have to be tossed.  To prevent leaking and spilling make sure to store the bags properly according to the instructions.  While some bags can be easily stored flat, some work best if they are standing up straight.

• Bulk purchasing:

A good rule when purchasing breast milk storage bags is that “more is more”.  It is better to have more milk bags on hand than not enough.  You don’t want to be wasting milk, or have to be forced to dump some because you simply don’t have enough bags.  That is precious food!  Some brands and styles of breast milk storage bags have either bulk purchase options or come in a large set so that you never have to worry about running out at the wrong time.

Here are some of the best breast milk storage bags that are available on the market today so that you can get well on your way to properly storing your milk!

Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags, 100 Count

Features:

• BPA free
• BPS free
• 100 count
• Strong and durable
• Ideal for freezing
• Double secure seal
• Trusted breastfeeding brand

The Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags are a great option for all of milk storage needs because they offer the strongest bag on the market.  The little bags have been trusted and used by breastfeeding mothers around the world for years.  Not only are these bags strong enough to last when traveling but also are the largest bags available.  This means that you store more milk at a time which is perfect for when you need to send your child to a caretakers house but don’t want to worry about them running out of milk.  Also having larger bags means that you can store less in your freezer at a time which will help you save a great deal of space.  You can rest easy knowing that these bags are BPA and BPS free so that you can quickly and easy thaw out the milk without worrying about harmful toxins being released upon heating.

You never again have to worry about messy leaks with the Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags.  This is because these bags features a double click and secure seal that is only unique to this brand of milk bags.  There are two zip lock seals located at the top of the bag so that there is no way any of that precious milk will leak or be wasted.  Another great feature of these milk storage bags is that they have markings right on the side of the bag to show how much milk you have collected and stored, up to 6 ounces.  You can also easily write directly on the bag which makes labeling a breeze.  Once you have filled and labeled the milk bag properly, simply store flat in your freezer or you can use these in conjunction with a storage tray so that you can store them upright for even easier access.  

Why should you buy them?  Here are some key points that other parents who have used them love about the Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags:

• Sturdy when filling
• Leaves no bitter aftertaste
• Holds up to 6 ounces
• Budget friendly
• Thaws without leaking
• Thick and durable plastic
• Double seal works perfectly
• Safety seal for each bag so you know its sterilized and clean

NUK Seal N Go Breast Milk Bags, 50 Count

Features:

• 100% leak proof
• Safety seal
• Gusset free bottom
• Double zipper seal
• 50 count
• Pour spout
• Self standing bottom
• Freezer safe
• Fill lines
• BPA free
• Holds up to 6 ounces

The NUK Seal N Go Breast Milk Bags are ones of the best breast milk storage bags because how of easy they are to fill and store.  The secret is in the self standing bottom.  They feature a fluted like design that allows them to stand up straight on their own so that you can swiftly fill them up without worrying about any milk going to waste or being left behind.  This specially designed bottom also features no gussets that eliminate any kind of leaking not only when filling but also when transferring the milk from bag to bottle.  You will also have some peace of mind when it comes to leaks because of the 100% leak proof double zipper that not only keeps leaks from happening but also keeps air out of the bag.  It is important to keep as much air as possible out of the storage when storing milk because that is that fastest way to soil the milk.

The NUK Seal n Go Breast Milk Storage Bags are pre-sterilized for safety.  Every time you remove a bag from the pack, you just simply have to remove the safety seal to know that each and every bag is clean and ready to go.  The easy to read lines located on the front of the bag allow you to keep track of how much milk you are producing as well as help you to keep track of how much milk your child is drinking at any given time.  Once the bags are filled, you can easily label them and store them flat in the freezer with the oldest bags up front.  NUK even has their own breast milk storage drawer that is sold separately which fits directly in your freezer for an even easier storage system.  Lastly, you will love how durable these bags feel.  You won’t have to worry about them breaking or exploding if you drop them.

Here are some things that parents had to say about the NUK Seal n Go Breast Milk Storage Bags:

• Better than many expensive systems
• Cost is perfect
• Helps to keep track of milk
• Gives milk a long shelf life
• Feel high quality
• Fits flat and takes up little space in freezer
• Easy to read labels
• Quick defrosting
• Easy to get the air out

Medela Pump and Save Breast Milk Bags, 50 Count

Features:

• 50 count
• Works with breast pump
• No leaks or spills
• Zipper top closure
• Protective oxygen barrier
• BPA free
• Comes with adaptors
• Storage flat in freezer
• Trust breastfeeding brand
• Used in hospitals and doctor’s offices

If you are using a Medela breast pump system as your main pump, you should consider sticking with the Medela brand and give the Medela Pump and Save Breast Milk Bags a shot.  Medela breast pumps are some of the best ones out there; they are even used in many hospitals and recommended by pediatricians for mothers who want to start storing their milk.  There is no surprise that Medela would bring that same high standard of quality to their breast milk storage bags.  The biggest selling point about these storage bags is that they can be directly attached to any and all Medela breast pumps.  This breast milk storage bag kit comes with two adapters that allow you to attach the bags the pump spout so that you can pump right into the bag.  This means that you never again have to mess around with messy transfers from bottle to bag and this also helps you keep track of how much milk you are pumping right away.  This also helps keep washing and sanitizing down because there is no middle man to worry about.

Once you are done filling up the Medela Pump and Save Breast Milk Bag while pumping, simply remove excess air by squeezing it out of the top of the bag and then seal them off with their double zipper seal.  This seal also helps to completely prevent leaking and spilling.  There is even a protective oxygen barrier that keeps all air out of the bag once sealed so that you can keep the milk fresh and ready to use longer.  This is a great option for mothers who need to use their breast pump at work.  All you have to do is bring a small case and some ice packs with you and pump directly into the bags.  From there you can store the bags flat in a storage bag and keep them fresh with an ice pack.  You never again have to worry about lugging around bottles and pump attachments to and from work every day.

Are these the best breast milk storage bags for you?  Here are some reasons why other parents swear by the Medela Pump and Save Breast Milk Bags:

• Works better for standing storage
• Easy compact size
• Works perfectly with hospital grade Medela pump
• Convenient for work
• Stays sturdy during pumping
• Love the stand alone feature

Dr. DUDU Breast Milk Storage Bags, 120 Count

Features: 

• BPA free
• Leak and spill proof
• Easy pout spout
• Patented zipper design
• Self standing
• 120 count
• Doctor recommended 
• Pre sterilized
• Reinforced with safety seal

The Dr. DUDU Breast Milk Storage Bags are a great option for all of your breast milk storage needs because they are one of the easiest to use when it comes to transfer milk from bottle to bag and vice versa.  The one feature that sets these breast milk storage bags apart from others on this list is the extra spout that is located at the bottom of each bag.  This allows you to easily and more efficiently transfer breast milk from the bag directly to the bottle without any spilling or leaks.  All you have to do is thaw the milk directly in the bag, if stored in the freezer, using a bottle warmer.  Once the milk is thawed, simply hold the bag over the bottle and use the easy to pout spout to pour the milk into a bottle and you are ready to go.  It has never been simpler!  Have no worried about toxins being released into the milk either when warming up because the bags are guaranteed to be 100% BPA and toxic free.

You can be sure that each and every one of the Dr. DUDU Breast Milk Storage Bags that you pull out of the box will be pre sanitized and ready to use.  This is because Dr. DUDU guarantees a fresh bag every time that is backed up by the reinforced safety seal that you remove every time.  The self standing base helps to keep milk in place when transferring so that you can be sure that no milk is being wasted.  When it comes to storing, these bags are easy enough to write on with a maker so that you can properly label each bag.  From there, all you have to do is close the top of the bag using the double seal that offers just that little extra of security, and store away in your fridge or freezer until you are ready to use them.

Why should you try them?  Here are some things that parents had to say about the Dr. DUDU Breast Milk Storage Bags:

• Durable and they don’t break
• Sturdy when standing for easy transfer
• Easy to press air out before sealing
• Stores away flat
• Perfect for travel
• Feels high quality
• Excellent value for the product
• Cute design
• Easy to write on
• Double seal feels secure

Phillips AVENT Breast Milk Storage Bags, 50 Pack

Features:

• 50 pack
• Clear bags
• BPA free
• Self standing bag
• Wide opening top
• Hygienic
• Pre-sterilized 
• Strong and durable
• Dual layer bag
• Leak proof
• Double zipper closure
• 6 ounce

The Phillips AVENT Breast Milk Storage Bags have been used and trusted by breastfeeding mothers who also trust AVENT when it comes to their child’s bottling needs.  AVENT is one of the leading brands when it comes to bottle feeding children, so there is no surprise that they would continue to lead the market when it comes to storing breast milk.  These self standing breast milk storage bags are easy to fill because of the crystal clear bag itself.  This bag allows you to easily see how much milk you are storing as well as helps you to better keep an eye on fresh milk.  One thing that can be damaging to breast milk when it is stored in the freezer is freezer burn.  While these bags are insulated to protect the milk from this, there are other factors that may lead to this.  With a crystal clear bag, you can easily see if that bag of milk has gone bad or not.

You will love that the Phillips AVENT Breast Milk Storage Bags come with reinforced seams to guarantee that there will be no leaks ever.  This is just one of the features that help to make this system one of the best breast milk storage bags out there.  The dual layer bag helps to keep the milk fresh, even in the freezer.  It also helps to hold the temperature which is great news for families who do a lot of traveling.  Best of all, once you are ready to serve the milk, the top pops open to form a special spout that makes the transition from bag to bottle go even smoother.  Lastly, you will love the wide mouth opening.  Some complaints about other milk storage bags are that the opening seems a little narrow which can make filling them difficult.  Not with these bags!  The opening is even large enough to fit the whole bottle top directly in the bag for even easier transition.

Why should you give them a try?  Here are some raves that other parents have with the Phillips AVENT Breast Milk Storage Bags:

• Surprisingly thick and durable
• AVENT is a trusted feeding brand
• Holds breast milk safely 
• Date label is easy to use
• Very budget friendly
• Clear and easy to see

110 Count Breastmilk Storage Bags, 8 Ounce by Mommy’s Precious 

Features:

• 8 ounce bags
• 110 count
• Leak proof
• Self standing
• BPA free
• Latex free
• Measurement lines
• Designed by parents
• Easy to tear safety seal
• Freezes flat
• Double zip lock

You may not have heard of the Mommy’s Precious Breastmilk Storage Bags but it is not for lack of quality.  These special breast milk storage bags were designed by mothers for mothers.  This way you know you are getting a high quality product that do exactly what they promise to do.  They are quickly becoming a fan favorite among the parenting community, and there is no surprise why.  Not only do these bags do a perfect job of storing breast milk, they also offer the largest size among any other milk storage bag that is available on the market today.  They hold up to 8 ounce of milk which means that you can now easily store more milk than you ever thought possible.  This is also an amazing feature because larger sized bottles are 8 ounces.  So these milk bags go hand in hand with any bottle you choose.  You can also rest easy knowing that these milk bags are pre sterilized so that you know you are getting a fresh and clean bag each and every time.

Another great feature of the Mommy’s Precious Breast Milk Storage Bags that help to make them one of the best breast milk storage bags is the easy to read measurements.  There are little notches that are located on the side of the bag that promises to have the most accurate measurement of any milk bag available on the market today.  This is absolutely perfect for mothers who have been put on a strict feeding schedule for little ones who need a little extra nutrition.  This makes it easier to report back to their pediatrician which the exact amount of milk your child is consuming.  The double zip lock feature helps to keep the milk secure in the bag while the store flat feature allows you to store a few weeks worth of milk at a time without ever worrying about taking up too much space.  You will also love the gusset bottom which allows for safe and quick transfer from bottle to bag without any messes.

What makes the Mommy’s Precious Breast Milk Storage Bags a top seller?  Here are some reason why other parents swear by them:

• Never had a problem with leaking
• Love that they are BPA and latex free
• Perfect for little ones with allergies
• Helps to better keep track of milk
• Thaws out easily
• Feels high quality and durable
• Never break when dropped

Tommee Tippee Pump and Go Milk Storage Bags

Features:

• Compatible with Pump and Go bottle
• Pre sterilized
• 35 pack
• Easy to heat
• BPA free
• PVC free
• Fits major brand pumps

If you are looking for a great all in one breast milk and storing system, then look no further than the Tommee Tippee Pump and Go Milk Storage Bags system.  These magical little bags work as part of a system to go along with the Pump and Go bottles.  Whenever you are ready to use a bag of milk, you simply attach a bag directly to the base of the nipple on the bottle and you are ready to go.  This attachment also allows you to attach the bag directly to any major brand of breast pump.  This means that you can now directly pump into the bag which reduces the risk of cross contamination as well as will cut down on your dishes and clean up.  With one bag you can pump and feed your child in one swift motion.  It has never been easier!

The Tommee Tippee Pump and Go Milk Storage Bags as BPA free as well as latex and PVC free.  This helps to make this product one of the best breast milk storage bags for little ones who suffer from food allergies or are sensitive to chemicals and latex.  This way you can also be sure that there will never be any harmful toxins released into the milk when you are using heat to thaw them out.  Because this system is designed to be an all in one streamline system to help milk get from breast to baby without any problems, you can be sure that there will never be a drop of milk wasted.  While the attachments and bottles that come with this system are easy to clean and sanitize, it is important to note that the bags themselves are not reusable.  Luckily for you, there are plenty of bulk purchasing options available online!

Why should you give them a try?  Here are some reasons why many parents love the Tommee Tippee Breast Milk Storage Bags for their storing and feeding needs.

• Measures perfect in ounces
• Stay completely upright when filling
• Nice to not have too much clean up
• Perfect system for travel
• Bags feel strong and durable

Wrapping it up!

When you purchase one of the best breast milk storage bags, you are well on your way to being a pro when it comes to pumping and storing.  If you are a breastfeeding mother who worries about not being able to produce enough milk for their little one, have no fear!  Here are a few things you can do to help get that milk flowing:

• Eat highly enriched foods

There are some foods that have been known to help with the production of breast milk.  Some of them many even surprise you!  Foods like rich oatmeal or dark chocolate have been known to increase production.  Try oatmeal cookies with dark chocolate.  They are not only a nice treat to have, but can actually do your body some good.

• Mother’s milk tea

There are a few different types of tea that are floating out there that have been proven to increase breast milk production.  Most of these teas use a special blend of herbs and ingredients like clove and licorice to help kick start your system.

• Continue to pump

One thing you can do is to continue to pump after you feed your baby.  Once your baby is finished eating, pick up your pump and extract every last drop.  Bodies are a beautiful thing; they will learn how to adjust.  When there is an increase in demand, there will be an increase in supply.

• Treat yourself

Certain adult luxuries can actually help with the production of milk, one of these being red wine.  Red wine is high in antioxidants which have been known to be a natural stimulate for breast milk production.  Because of this, winding down at the end of the night with a glass of red wine is actually encouraged.  If you are not into wine, you can also achieve the same result with dark beer.  Just make sure to not over do it.  When it comes to trying this trick, less is more!

• Find support

The biggest resource available to parents that is often times overlooked is parents.  Chances are you know someone who is having the same trouble as you.  Reach out!  If you don’t know anyone with children, turn to the internet.  There are a ton of support groups available out there that are judgment free.  Worst comes to worst you may even meet a new supportive friend.

• Consult a specialist 

If you still feel like you can’t keep up with your child while also trying to store milk, check with a specialist or your child’s pediatrician.  Chances are they can help assist you while also helping you to pin point the problem, if there is one.

• Take care of yourself

Being a parent is hard work.  To ensure that you are taking care of your child, it is important to first take care of yourself.  Find time to rest and relax and make sure you are staying hydrated and well fed.  You would be surprised by how much change you can see by just giving yourself a rest day.

• Don’t’ get discouraged

If things are not going the way you planned, or you are unable to produce enough milk to store, don’t worry.  There is no shame in trying your best and not getting an ideal result.  So many mothers are so hard on themselves, especially when it comes to breast feeding.  The important thing is that you set out to do the best for child, and that is what really counts.

Breast milk storage bags really are an amazing invention.  They not only help to make storing breast milk easier, they also have many different other uses.  Many parents continue to use breast milk storage bags to store baby food.  You can easily fill these bags with homemade pureed baby food and store them right in the freezer, the same way you would breast milk.  This is because these bags are already sterilized and ready to use.  You can feel safe filling them with any type of food your baby will eat.  Some parents even continue to use these bags for their own food.  The options really are endless.  The most important thing to remember when it comes to storing breast milk is to keep an eye on the date and time stamps.  A good rule to remember is that milk that is stored in the freezer can last up to 3 weeks, while milk stored in the fridge will last 3-4 days.  When in doubt, use your best judgment.  Good luck and take care.