When it comes to breastmilk storage bags, there are a lot of opinions on whether or not they can be reused. Some people say that you should only use them once, while others believe that they can be reused as long as they are properly cleaned. So, what’s the truth?
Yes, breastmilk storage bags can be reused as long as they are properly cleaned. The regular plastic milk bags that come in large quantities (50, 100, etc) are designed for single use, however, can be reused. It is not recommended to reuse this type of milk bag more than once to reduce the risk of contamination.
However, silicone breastmilk storage bags that are designed specifically for storing and freezing breastmilk can be reused several times with proper care.
Keeping reading this article to learn more about safely resuing breastmilk storage bags. We will discuss how to clean the storage bags, how long breastmilk should be stored in a storage bag, and the benefits of reusing them.
The Basics of Breastmilk Storage Bags
Breastmilk storage bags are a convenient and hygienic way to store expressed breastmilk during breastfeeding. They are specially designed to safely store, protect, and preserve breastmilk for reheating for later use. Breastmilk storage bags can help busy moms stay organized by allowing them to easily store and transport their milk when needed.
They are made of safe food-grade plastic and are designed to prevent bacteria from getting into the expressed milk. The bags usually come with a double zipper top to ensure that they remain sealed and safe for storage.
According to the CDC, breastmilk can be stored in a storage bag for up 4 hours at room temperature and up to 4 days in the refrigerator. You can store breastmilk bags in the freezer for up to 12 months but 6 months is best.
Cleaning and Reusing Breastmilk Storage Bags
Cleaning breastmilk storage bags for reuse is an important part of safely storing and preserving your expressed breastmilk. The following guide will help you understand how to best clean and reuse these specialized bags.
Before You Begin
Before cleaning or reusing any breastmilk storage bag, you must make sure that the bag is not damaged. Do not reuse a breastmilk storage bag if it has any rips, tears, or punctures in it.
Also, be aware that breastmilk storage bags come in different sizes and some are meant to be single-use only. Double-check the product specifications before attempting to clean and reuse them.
Cleaning Methods
1. Hand Washing: You can hand wash your breastmilk storage bags with warm soapy water after each use and air dry them on a clean towel overnight. Be sure to rinse the soap off thoroughly and let the bag completely dry before reusing or storing milk in it again.
2. Dish washer: You can also use your dishwasher to clean and sanitize the bags. Place the bags on the top rack of your dishwasher, away from any heating elements. Use a heated drying cycle with a low temperature setting to ensure that the bags are completely dry before storing milk in them again.
3. Boiling: Another method for cleaning breastmilk storage bags is boiling them in water for at least one minute. Let the bag air dry completely before using it again or storing milk in it. Best for use with silicone material breastmilk bags.
Benefits of Reusing Breastmilk Storage Bags
Reusing breastmilk storage bags can be beneficial for both you and the environment. Not only can reusing these specialized bags help you save time and money, but it can also reduce the amount of waste going into landfills.
– Saves money: You can save extra money by reusing breastmilk storage bags and this will leave more money for important baby products!
– Reduces waste: You can help keep single-use waste products out of the landfill.
– Easier organization: Storing your milk in the same type of bag can make it easier to organize in your fridge or freezer.
-Some daycares only allow milk to be brought in bags so being able to reuse your milk storage bag is a money saver.
Best Reusable Milk Storage Bags
Reusable milk storage bags can be purchased from a variety of retailers, both online and in-store. Stores such as Amazon, Walmart, Buy Buy Baby, Target and more carry them.
Reusable milk storage bags can vary drastically in price depending on the type and brand. On average, regular plastic bags typically cost around $0.13 cents apiece depending on the quantity. You can expect to pay more for silicone milk bags. They come in packages of 4-7 bags and range from anywhere from $20-$50 dollars.
Here are some of the best reusable milk storage bags for you to consider:
1. Momcozy Silicone Milk Storage Bags
Momcozy silicone milk storage bags are made of food grade silicone, which is BPA free and non-toxic. It’s a great product to store breast milk or baby food. Momcozy also has a wide variety of colors that you can choose from. The unique design allows it to be stored flat or upright and fit on some breast pumps like spectra for milk to go into the bag directly. These bags are easy to use and reheat using a bottle warmer! They are reusable and dishwasher safe too! To label them, dry-erase markers work best, as these wipe off these easily as compared to Sharpies.
2. Hakaa Silicone Milk Storage Bags
Made of 100% food grade silicone that is BPA, PVC and phthalate-free, these bags can stand temperatures from -20℃ to 250℃ and are safe in both the fridge and freezer. To clean, just rinse with clean water or sterilize by boiling in water for 2-3 minutes. With 3 interchangeable tops (purchased separately), these bags are perfect for any feeding situation. Can be rolled up for easy storage when not in use.
3.Zip Top Reusable 100% Platinum Silicone Breast Milk Storage
These zip top breast milk storage bags are 100% silicone and BPA free. They stand up, stay open and zip shut easily. The one piece glue-free and seam-free design is durable, freezer safe and dishwasher safe. Zip Top breast milk bags can be sterilized by boiling for 5 minutes.
Zip-Top Reusable Breast Milk Storage Bags are available in sets of 6 and each bag holds up to 6 ounces. You can write on them to label dates and times. However, note that these cannot be pumped directly into. This particular set comes with a freezer tray for upright storage Use them over and over again to store your precious breastmilk.
4.Nuliie 7 Pcs Silicone Breastmilk Storage Bags
These double leak-proof freezer bags feature two seals—one on the inside and one on the outside—to keep your milk safe and secure. BPA free and measuring 8oz/240ml, these self-standing milk bags are perfect for breastfeeding and baby food storage.
5.MMÄ Silicone Breastmilk Storage Bags
These bags have great capacity (8.5oz), are 100% leakproof, and are very easy to use and clean. Plus, the sealed twist stopper prevents leaks, and a silicone brush is included for easy cleaning. You get 5 bags in this set, making it perfect for multiple uses – store breastmilk, juice, or water, or use them as ice packs.
Reusable milk storage bags come in many different types and brands, with prices ranging from $0.13 per bag to upwards of $50 for packages of silicone food-grade bags. These bags are great for storing breast milk, and baby food, and even as an ice pack and can be used over and over again. They offer double leakage protection and come in a variety of sizes to fit your needs. Whether you are looking for something simple and cost-effective or a higher quality, more durable bag, there is an option out there to suit your needs.