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Maternity & Nursing
Fetal Doppler Set with Color Screen
A Doppler monitor with a digital LCD, separate probe, adjustable volume,...
199.00 AED
How Long Does Breast Milk Last?
Freshly expressed breast milk lasts up to 4 hours at room temperature (25°C or cooler), up to 4 days in the fridge and is best used within 6 months from the freezer (acceptable up to 12). Thawed milk should be used within 1–2 hours at room temperature or 24 hours in the fridge, and never refrozen (CDC guidance).
Breast milk expiry calculator
✨ When does your expressed milk expire?
Breast milk storage chart
| Where | Freshly expressed | Thawed (previously frozen) |
|---|---|---|
| Room temperature (25°C or cooler) | up to 4 hours | 1–2 hours |
| Insulated cooler with ice packs | up to 24 hours | — |
| Fridge (4°C) | up to 4 days | 24 hours |
| Freezer (−18°C or colder) | best within 6 months, OK up to 12 | never refreeze |
Leftover milk: use within 2 hours of the start of the feed, then discard.
Source: CDC breast milk storage guidelines. For general guidance; your baby’s doctor is the reference.
In hot weather
In the Gulf a room can easily be warmer than 25°C, so do not rely on 4 hours. Refrigerate straight away, or use an insulated milk bag with ice packs when out.
How to store breast milk
- Wash hands and pump parts before each session.
- Use milk storage bags, a reusable silicone bag or clean lidded containers.
- Store 60–120 ml portions to avoid waste.
- Label date and time; use the oldest first.
- Keep milk at the back of the fridge or freezer, not the door, and leave space for expansion.
How to thaw and warm
- Thaw overnight in the fridge or in warm water.
- No microwave: it heats unevenly.
- Swirl gently to mix the fat that rises, which is normal.
- Test the temperature on your wrist.
How to tell if milk has gone bad
A strong sour smell or bitter taste that does not mix away. Colour changes or separation alone are normal. When in doubt, throw it out.
Frequently asked questions
How long can breast milk sit out?
Up to 4 hours at 25°C or cooler, less in hot rooms.
How long does breast milk last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days at 4°C, at the back, not in the door.
How long does breast milk last in the freezer?
Best within 6 months, acceptable up to 12 months.
Can I refreeze thawed breast milk?
No. Use it within 24 hours in the fridge or 1–2 hours at room temperature.
Can I mix fresh and cold breast milk?
Cool the fresh milk in the fridge first, then combine with chilled milk from the same day; never add warm milk to frozen milk.
Can I microwave breast milk?
Not recommended; use warm water or a bottle warmer.
How long does breast milk last in a cooler bag?
Up to 24 hours with ice packs, then refrigerate or use.
