There are many and different breast milk storage systems available. If you are reading this article you are very likely to have a very little baby and you are either breastfeeding and / or expressing milk.
Either way, you will need a container to store your milk and in this article we will review the best breast milk storage bags, their use, practicality, pros and cons, brand reviews and also where to buy them.
If you are in a hurry, you can refer to our comparative table below, or simple click on the list below to go where you need to:
1. Pros of Breast Milk Storage Bags
2. Cons of Breast Milk Storage Bags
3. Brand Reviews
4. Tips to reduce risk of spilling milk when pouring it in or out of the bag
5. How long does breast milk last in at room temperature, in the refrigerator and freezer?
6. Preparing for storing your baby’s milk
7. How to store your breast milk?
8. Recommendations for freezing breast milk
9. How to thaw breast milk
10. Where to buy breast milk storage bags?
| PRODUCT PHOTO | Product Name | No. of Reviews | Star Rating | Price | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags | 3,800+ | [usr 4.2] | $$ | Check out on Amazon.com |
 | Nuk Seal N Go | 1,500+ | [usr 4.2] | $ | Check out on Amazon.com |
 | Medela Pump and Save Breast Milk Bags | 1,400+ | [usr 3.9] | $$ | Check out on Amazon.com |
 | Bonafide Breast Milk Storage Bags | 60+ | [usr 4.2] | $$ | Check out on Amazon.com |
 | Philips AVENT Breast Milk Storage Bags | 190+ | [usr 4.2] | $ | Check out on Amazon.com |
 | Kiinde Twist Pouches - Breastmilk Storage Bags | 1,600+ | [usr 4.6] | $$ | Check out on Amazon.com |
 | Dr. Brown's Breastmilk Storage Bags | 240+ | [usr 4.4] | $$ | Check out on Amazon.com |
 | Ameda Store N Pour Breast Milk Storage Bags | 70+ | [usr 3.8] | $ | Check out on Amazon.com |
1. Pros of Breast Milk Storage Bags
These are the reasons I recommend breast pump bags as the best breast milk storage system:
BPA-Free
Which means they are free of Bisphenol A – a chemical used in the production of polycarbonate plastics. That means they are safe to store your baby’s milk.
Ready to use
Breast milk storage bags are pre-sterilised, which means they are ready to use as you don’t need to do any prior sterilisation. In terms of time saving, this is a huge advantage vs. other breast milk storage containers.
Easy storing
They can be stored in the fridge and freezer. Some designs are ideal for stacking on top of each other, whilst others are best for free-standing.
Room saving
They take less room than baby bottles and other hard containers as they can lay flat one on top of each other or next to each other. It is very important to note that it is key to have the bags properly sealed in either case in order to preserve the milk in its original condition and save all nutrients.
Easy labelling
Most brands come with a label, making it easy for you to keep records of milk pumped. Always ensure you write down the date, time and amount of milk expressed. Milk can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and 6-12 months in the freezer. You can read more in How long does breast milk last in at room temperature, in the refrigerator and freezer?
Faster thawing
Breast milk warms up faster in storage bags than in other containers, as their material is thinner. Just pour some warm water in a container, and submerge the breast milk storage bag in it. Then wait a few minutes until the milk is at room temperature to feed it to your baby. Make sure you gently remove the milk fat from the bag by handling it before you pour the milk into your chosen best breastfeeding baby bottle. To read more about thawing your baby’s milk, have a read through: How to thaw breast milk?
Practicality of Breast Milk Storage Systems
Some brands have developed the full package, as they provide an adaptor (sometimes sold separately or with the bags) so you can attach the breast milk storage bag to your breast pump and express milk directly into the bag. There are also adaptors to attach the bag to the teat or nipple of the same brand baby bottle. That means you can feed your baby straight from the breast milk storage bag, with no need of using a bottle, saving you a lot of time in preparing milk, cleaning and sterilising. You may want to check out Kiinde Breast Milk Storage Twist Pouch review below.
Good for moms on the go
If you are on the go, this is a very practical baby gear item. A breast milk storage bag takes less room in your bag and if you need to leave your breastmilk for someone else to feed your baby, you are making it easy for everyone. Grandma or the babysitter won’t need to wash and spare the container for you to collect, as all bags are disposable (1 time only use). The benefit for you is that you won’t need to remember to collect a used milk container, take it home and sterilise it for another time.
2. Cons of Breast Milk Storage Bags
Risk of leakage
There are no 100% leak-free breast milk storage bags. Some bags are made of stronger material than others. There is obviously a higher cost to pay for stronger bags. However, breakage may occur due to mishandling or also bad batches. If you find that most bags in your pack of breast milk storage bags leak, contact the manufacturer, as there may be something wrong with the batch. Remember to always check your bag before storing milk in case there are any faults.
Risk of spilling milk
There is a risk to spill milk when pouring it in and out of the bag, so you need to be extra careful. We’ve compiled some tips on how to pour breast milk safely into your baby bottle here.
Cost
This is something you will need to factor in as breast milk storage bags are not re-usable. You may want to try different brands to make sure you are happy with the quality of the bag and the price you are paying for it. With the amount of brands and different qualities available you will be spoilt for choice. We hope that our review on best breast milk storage bags will help you make a decision.
Misleading measurements
Most breast milk storage bags come with a measurement line, however, it is not 100% reliable. Always check the amount of breast milk you are giving your baby. It is also best to store breast milk in small quantities and if they are in the refrigerator you can warm up several bags at a time.
3. Brand Reviews: Top & Best breast milk storage bags reviews
As a new mom myself I understand the stress of having a new baby. There is just too much going on, baby, family, sleep deprivation and you are facing new challenges every day. This guide will hopefully help you in a little way.
Breast milk storage bags are a little thing in the overall scheme of things, but they can have a huge impact in terms of saving valuable time for resting. After all, we all need something to make our lives a little bit easier.
Nuk Seal ‘N Go Breast Milk Storage Bags
Features:
[one_half_first]- BPA-Free and pre-sterilised
– Up to 6oz (approx. 177ml)
– Freezer safe, including improved oxygen barrier
– Self-standing bottom
Pros:
– Strong material
– Double zip lock system
Cons:
– Measurement lines not too accurate, but better than other bags
– Breakage has occurred but less than with other brands[/one_half_first][one_half_last][thrive_link color=’blue’ link=’https://www.roamingmommy.com/6i3x’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Check Out on Amazon.com[/thrive_link][/one_half_last]
Kiinde Breast Milk storage Twist Pouch
Features:
– Up to 6 oz (approx. 177ml)
– Tough material
– Leak-proof screw cap
– Pouches twist and lock onto pumps from most major manufacturers (using adapter which is sold separately)
– System combines with Kiinde twist active latch nipple to feed your baby from the bag
Pros:
[one_half_first]- Tough material
– Screw caps are safer than zip lock systems
– Option to pump into bag if adapter is used
– Option to feed baby if same brand nipple or adapter is used
Cons
– May take more freezer space because of twist cap
– Can’t freeze flat
– More expensive than other solutions
– Measurement lines may be inaccurate, but better than other brands[/one_half_first][one_half_last][thrive_link color=’blue’ link=’https://www.roamingmommy.com/i4k7′ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Check Out on Amazon.com[/thrive_link][/one_half_last]
Dr Brown’s Breast Milk Storage Bags
[one_half_first]
Features
-Pre-sterilised and BPA-free
-Extra thick design with double zip
-Bags stand up right for easy handling
Pros
– Good thick material
– Easy to pour milk in and out
– Can lay down flat and upright
Cons
– May be more expensive than other options
– Measurement lines not too accurate, but better than other bags[/one_half_first][one_half_last]
[thrive_link color=’blue’ link=’https://www.roamingmommy.com/z254′ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Check Out on Amazon.com[/thrive_link][/one_half_last]
Philips AVENT Breast Milk Storage Bags
[one_half_first]Features:– BPA free and pre-sterilised
– Holds up to 6oz (177ml)
– Strong and durable: reinforced seams and dual layer bag
– Double zipper
– Self-standing
– Wide opening for easy filling and pouring
Pros:
– Easy to open and close
– Big label to write on
Cons:
– Thinner material than other brands, according to some users
– Measurement lines not too accurate
– There have been cases of leakage, according to some users[/one_half_first][one_half_last]
[thrive_link color=’blue’ link=’https://www.roamingmommy.com/4idx’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Check Out on Amazon.com[/thrive_link][/one_half_last]
Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags
[one_half_first]Features:
-BPA-Free
-Recently re-designed with stronger material
-Ideal for storing & freezing breast milk
-Patented double Click ‘n’ Secure double seal
-Large size 6oz (177ml) capacity
-Convenient pour spout
Pros:
– 6oz capacity (177ml)
– Easy open system
– Double seal
– Easy to stack as they lay flat
– Wide edges- bags seem thicker
Cons:
– Hard to open / close
– There have been cases of leakage, according to customer reviews
– Measurement lines may be inaccurate[/one_half_first][one_half_last][thrive_link color=’blue’ link=’https://www.roamingmommy.com/dj99′ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Check Out on Amazon.com[/thrive_link][/one_half_last]
Ameda Store N Pour Breast Milk Storage Bags
[one_half_first]
Features:
– Pre-sterilised and BPA-Free
– Strong design to prevent spilling or cracking
– Pump straight into the bag using adapters or transfer from bottles
– Unique spout helps prevent spills
– Freezer safe
Pros:
– Holds up to 5oz (148ml)
– Good design for safe pouring
Cons:
– Measurement lines may be inaccurate
– Less capacity than other brands
– No double zip lock[/one_half_first][one_half_last][thrive_link color=’blue’ link=’https://www.roamingmommy.com/1e9m’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Check Out on Amazon.com[/thrive_link][/one_half_last]
MEDELA Pump and Save Breast Milk Storage Bags
[one_half_first]Features:
– BPA-Free and pre-sterilised
– Up to 5oz capacity (148ml)
– Compatible with Medela breast pumps
– Protective oxygen barrier to preserve breast milk nutrients
– Comes with adaptor
Pros:
– They can stand up right
– Easy to use with Medela pump
– Durable material
– Great option for working moms for expressing milk at work[/one_half_first][one_half_last][thrive_link color=’blue’ link=’https://www.roamingmommy.com/bdmp’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Check Out on Amazon.com[/thrive_link][/one_half_last]
Cons:
– Too small capacity
– Difficult to handle if you don’t have a Medela breast pump
– There have been cases of leakage, according to customer reviews
– Hard to open/ close zip
– Measurements may be inaccurate, according to customer reviews BUT, check out this video from Amanda Tedder showing a technique to get an accurate measurement reading
Bonafide Breast Milk Storage Bags
[one_half_first]Features:
– BPA/ BPS Free
– Double zip seal
– Include a free non-toxic marker for labelling
– Tear off top
Pros:
– Thick resistant material
– Good leak proof
– More affordable than other brands
Cons:
– Smaller than other bags
– Measurement lines are inaccurate[/one_half_first][one_half_last][thrive_link color=’blue’ link=’https://www.roamingmommy.com/notv’ target=’_blank’ size=’medium’ align=’aligncenter’]Check Out on Amazon.com[/thrive_link][/one_half_last]
4. Tips to reduce risk of spilling milk when pouring it in or out of the bag
If you are new to the breast milk storage bag systems you may want to take a few precautions to reduce the risk of accidentally spilling your milk when pouring in and out of the bag:
1. Always wash your hands first
2. Label the bag before opening it. We recommend you use a thick marker instead of a pen as it makes it easier to write on plastic
3. Open the bag and place it over a sterilised container
4. Carefully pour the milk into the bag. We recommend you don’t pour too much in one single bag. It is always recommended to store breast milk in small portions of approx. 2-3 oz (60-90 ml) or as much as your baby feeds.
5. Any spillage will fall into the sterilised container and can then be poured back into the bag
6. You can place a sterilised container under baby bottle if you feel there is a risk to spill milk when pouring out of the bag.
5. How long does breast milk last in at room temperature, in the refrigerator and freezer?
This charts contains information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
| Where? | Temperature | How long? | Tips |
| Outside of refrigerator | Room temperature 77°F or 25°C | 6-8 hours | Keep container covered |
| Insulated cooler bag | 5-39°F or -15-4°C | 24 hours | Keep coolers in contact with the breast milk and avoid opening the bag |
| Fridge or refrigerator | 39°F or 4°C | 5 days | Store milk at the back of the main body of appliance |
| Freezer | -4°F or -20°C | 6-12 months | Store milk at the back section of the freezer |
6. Preparing for storing your baby’s milk
1. Always wash your hands first
2. Use a breast milk storage bag or a sterilised and reliable container that can be sealed
3. Label the container with the amount of milk and date expressed
4. Do not mix fresh milk with already frozen milk as they are different batches
5. If you gave your baby milk from the bottle and there is some left, do not save it for later. Breast milk cannot be re-used.
7. How to store your breast milk?
Once you are ready to store your milk remember to organise your refrigerator to make it easier for you to find the oldest milk first and leave the newest one at the back for later use. There are some accessories available to help organise your refrigerator / freezer.
8. Recommendations for freezing breast milk
– Liquids expand when frozen, so avoid fully filling your breast milk storage bag to prevent it from bursting and leaking
– Always store your breast milk at the back of the freezer, where it gets a constant flow of cold temperatures
– Depending on your storage container system you may prefer to stack the containers one on top of the other or leave them free-standing
– Save your newest milk at the back so that you can efficiently manage your inventory and find milk easier
9. How to thaw breast milk?
Whenever possible, thaw your frozen breast milk by moving it to the refrigerator. Frozen milk can last in the refrigerator from 12 to 24 hours.
Alternatively you can place the frozen storage bag in a bowl with warm water and wait for a few minutes until your milk is at room temperature to give to your baby. There is no need to use boiling water to thaw milk, and the milk could get extra hot.
Once milk is thawed, it should be used within 24 hours and cannot be re-frozen.
10. Where to buy breast milk storage bags?
All brands reviewed in this feature and many more can be found on Amazon.com. Just click on the links above for your convenience. We are Amazon Associates so we will get a commission at no extra cost to you.
Breast milk bags are available also at major retailers such as Walmart and Target. You will also find them at your local pharmacy or chemist. Note that brands available and prices may vary from store to store.
We hope you found this article useful and that we covered all you needed to know about the breast milk storage bags topic. Please leave a comment below and also let us know if you would like to read about another mommy / baby related topic at RoamingMommy.com.
