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Help! I Left Breast Milk In Bottle Warmer Too Long!

Ya know the saying… don’t cry over spilled milk?

Well - what about crying over breast milk that you accidentally leave in the bottle warmer? OOPS!

You might NOT have to cry about it because breast milk is amazing and contains live cells which kill bacteria and helps it stay fresher for longer than pasteurized cows milk or formula. 

However, after a certain amount of time you’ll definitely have to discard the milk or find other uses for it.

Let’s discuss…

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DISCLAIMER: When it comes to giving baby breast milk that’s been left out too long, be extra cautious with preemies and babies with compromised immune systems. When in doubt, it’s best to toss the milk.


Q&A: What if I left breast milk in the bottle warmer too long?

Breast milk is good in a bottle warmer for a maximum of four hours.  If it’s longer than 4 hours you should discard the milk.

PRO-TIP: To avoid wasted breast milk, we recommend storing 2 oz. portions of breast milk for those times you just need a little extra. 

THESE TRAYS are perfect for storing small portions of breast milk because they’re made of silicone so you can easily pop out the breast milk and they even come with a lid!

 

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Q&A: How quickly does freshly expressed breast milk stay good?

It's optimal to use or properly store freshly expressed breast milk within 4 hours, especially if the room is warm.

Related post:
12 Things To Do With Leftover Breast Milk

  

Q&A: My baby didn’t finish the bottle. Can I use the leftover breast milk?

Used breast milk can become contaminated with bacteria from your baby’s mouth during a feeding so the CDC recommends, “If your baby did not finish the bottle, the leftover breast milk can still be used within 2 hours after the baby is finished feeding. After 2 hours, leftover breast milk should be discarded.” (or used for a different purpose)


PRO-TIP ON WARMING UP BREAST MILK

If you have a bottle warmer, make sure it isn’t heating your milk too much. When possible, slowly warm your milk prior to your feeding in a bowl of warm but not hot water.


Q&A: Is it safe to reheat breast milk?

Yes, but only one time and within 4 hours.  And you should avoid doing this at all because reheating destroys nutrients in breast milk.

 

Q&A: How do I know if breast milk is too warm?

Most babies prefer breast milk that’s warmed to body temperature. Pour a little on your wrist – if you feel no warm sensation, then the temp is perfect. If you feel any heat at all then the bottle is too hot for your baby.

 

Q&A: What if baby drinks spoiled breast milk?

It can cause an upset stomach and possible vomiting and diarrhea. 


BREAST MILK USEAGE PRO-TIPS: 

  • You should not leave warm breast milk out at room temperature for long periods of time. 

  • Consider the temp of the room. If the room is warm where your breast milk is kept, it will speed up bacteria growth.

  • It’s best to put milk in the fridge (as opposed to keeping it at room temp) because cold temperatures slow bacteria growth.

  • Do not refreeze milk.

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 Related post:
12 Things To Do With Leftover Breast Milk