Best Breast Milk Storage Bags of 2023: Complete Guide

breast milk storage bags are a must-have for mothers pumping and conserving their milk. To optimize the nutritional content of your baby’s milk, it’s important to store it correctly once you’ve begun pumping. It might be difficult to know where to begin, from collecting and preserving breast milk to defrosting and using it. Fortunately, there are various choices available to assist you.

Breastfeeding expert Leigh Anne O’Connor recommends using bags that can attach flexibly to the pump. They also need to have a sturdy and easy seal and feature BPA-free plastic.

How can you know which one is the best fit for you? How frequently you pump will decide the budget and the bag’s volume. A secure sealing type and pre-sterilization are both essential for reducing waste. It’s also a good idea to have features like self-standing designs, large capacity, and labels for the date on the side of the container.

These are the best breast milk storage bags on the market. These bags are ideal if you’re expecting a baby and want to prepare ahead of time or you’ve been pumping for some time and want to have more freedom.

What Is a Breast Milk Storage bag? 

You may preserve your breast milk in sterile storage bags in the refrigerator or freezer, which you can use at any time. This means that when you are at work or away, someone else may feed your baby from your breast milk. Specially designed storage bags are used to store breast milk, and they are not the same as regular food bags. Breast milk storing bags contain heavy-duty material and seal very firmly to avoid leaks.

All breast milk storage bags are not equal, so we’ve examined review sites and the online forums to find out which bags the moms like and have come up with our top selections.

Our Top Pics forThe Best Breast Milk Storage Bags

1. Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags
2. Dr. Brown’s Breastmilk Storage Bags
3. Medela Breast Milk Storage Bags
4. Ameda Pump’N Protect Breast Milk
5. Nanobebe 25 Breastmilk Storage Bags

1. Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags

Mamas adore Lansinoh storage containers for their breast milk. They’re sanitized and ready to use, and the double zipper ensures there are no nasty leaks. The bags carry up to 6 ounces. Having a pour spout makes it easier to transfer breast milk from the container into the bottle. Moreover, you can store them flat in the refrigerator or freezer.

Pumping straight into these bags eliminates the need to wash additional bottles. Using a Lansinoh pump takes care of everything. You may still pump straight into the bags. However, you’ll need an adaptor if you’re using a different brand (sold separately).

Some of the bags may leak occasionally, but most women have praised the bags for their convenience of use and affordability.

Pros

• Double zipper closure 
• Holds up to 6 ounces
• BPA-free for the safety of your baby
• Recyclable
• Can pump directly into the pumps

Cons 

• Single-use

2. Brown’s Breastmilk Storage Bags

These milk storage bags from Dr. Brown’s are thick and robust, and they are easy to use and store breast milk in. They have a capacity of up to 6 ounces of milk, and they stand upright, making them simple to refill.

Women have praised the extra-thick, BPA-free bags for their durability, and a large number of happy customers have said that the double-zipper closure ensures that they never leak. They also appreciate the idea that they can store them straight in the freezer, allowing you to store more in a less amount of space. Although you cannot immediately pump into these bags, the great quality of the bags makes the additional steps worthwhile for many people.

Pros

• Double zipper closure
• Can stand upright
• Easy labelling
• Up to 6 ounces storage

Cons 

• Single-use
• Can’t pump directly in the bags

3. Medela Breast Milk Storage Bags

Busy mothers who breastfeed are well aware of the difficulties of transferring breast milk. Whether you have a regular schedule or are on a joyful family vacation, these particular milk storage bags are ideal for carrying milk.

With a double zipper closure and tough double-layer material that won’t leak, these bags are sturdy enough to be thrown into your diaper bag or handbag without leaking at all. Depending on how you like to hold them, they may be carried in either a standing or a flat position.

This package is ideal for travel because of the accompanying resealable transfer pouch, which enables you to transport all of your empty bags while keeping them clean and tidy. Moms may not only bring breast milk with them, but they can also pump while on the road and be certain that they are using a clean bag that will not leak.

Each bag can carry up to six ounces of breastmilk, and each package contains one hundred BPA-free bags for your convenience.

Pros 

• Double-layer material with double zipper
• Can stand upright to avoid leakage
• Resealable transport pouch
• Can pump directly to the bag

Cons 

• Small storage 
• Not reusable

4. Ameda Pump’N Protect Breast Milk

Pouring breast milk from the bags into a bottle may be tricky since you don’t want to spill a drop of the precious liquid. Each of these Ameda breast milk storage bags comes with an easy-pour funnel to ensure that all of the milk is transferred to the bottle without spilling. To use, just rip off a corner and pour it into a container. Even though you require an adaptor, you may pump straight into these bags with a standard pump.

Women praise them for being practical and well-made, and they wonder why more bags do not have a spout of this kind. Some people have reported leakage with these milk bags, and since they only contain 5 ounces, they may not be the ideal choice if you’re pumping a large volume of milk. Overall, though, most ladies have nothing but positive things to say about these bags.

Pros

• Can pump directly into them 
• No leakage 
• Easy to pour milk from 

Cons 

• Small quantity
• Small capacity

5. Nanobebe 25 Breastmilk Storage Bags

These bags are not only free of lead and BPA, but they are also free of phthalates, which are harmful to the environment. This breastfeeding storage bag is stackable, making it simple for you to keep track of your supplies. Furthermore, they come with a double zipper closure, which reduces the likelihood of leakage.

These bags, made of thick, strong plastic, carry 5 ounces apiece and are equipped with a safety seal to guarantee that the bags have not been contaminated before use.

The top of these bags contains a large record panel with space to put information about the number of ounces in the bag and the date and time you produced the milk.

Pros 

• Rigid plastic to avoid spilling milk while pouring from them
• Stackable to provide more space 

Cons 

• Limited storage capacity

6. Mommy’s Precious 110 Count Breastmilk Storage Bags

It’s wonderful that you’re generating enormous amounts of milk, but you’ll need storage bags that can contain a substantial quantity of all the deliciousness you’re making.

Compared to the majority of breast milk storage bags available on the market, these from Mommy’s Precious are meant to contain 8 ounces of milk, and some women have reported that they could fit as much as 10 ounces in them. The bags are self-standing and may be frozen flat when not in use.

Hundreds of ladies have given these bags five-star reviews. They said they are robust and do not leak whatsoever, and they like the larger size since it allows them to use fewer bags in total.

Pros

• Large quantity of up to 8 ounces
• Pre sterilized 
• Bulk quantity 

Cons 

• Single-use

7. Kiinde Twist Cap Breast Milk Storage Bags

These Kiinde zippered breast milk storage bags provide a unique spin on the typical zipped breast milk storage bag. This practical and cost-effective product allows you to gather, store, and prepare breast milk for your newborn in one easy and cost-effective pouch.

When you use it with an adapter (offered separately), they can be locked onto any pump, and a twist-on lid keeps them tight as they’re frozen. To feed the infant, you connect the breast to the top of his or her bottle. There are no containers or other attachments to wash since there are none. These bags can contain up to 6 ounces of milk and they are self-standing, freezer flat, and resealable. They also come in a smaller eight ounces container.

They are a little more costly than typical purses, but many ladies believe they are well worth the investment. While some complain that the twisting caps take up more storage space and make it more difficult to arrange, most people believe that the convenience of use outweighs these disadvantages.

Pros

• Twist cap to close the bags 
• Can pump directly to the bags 
• Can use a bottle 

Cons 

• Not reusable 
• Little pricey 

8. Nuk Seal’ n Go Breast Milk Bags

These bags also have a double zipper closure, and they are claimed to be leak proof to a hundred percent. Nuk bags contain a top closure that prevents tampering and a bottom with no gussets, which should result in no leakage from the corners of the bags.

In addition to standing upright in the freezer, you can also stack the bags to conserve space. When frozen, the bags carry 6 ounces of milk, and to defrost the milk, just run hot water over the frozen bags. When you defrost the milk and pour it into a bottle, you won’t receive any watered-down combination since the barrier seal and water-proof structure prevents that.

Pros

• Leakage proof 
• Double zipper 
• Easy to use and carry

Cons 

• Don’t stand upright properly
• Not recyclable 

9. Spectra Disposable Breast Milk Storage Bags

The Spectra Disposable Breast Milk Storage Bags provide all of the fundamental characteristics you’d expect to see in a breast milk storage bag, including a leak-proof seal. You won’t have to think about leaks or infection since they have a double-lined closure that snugly secures your breast milk within.

Each bag has a capacity of 200mL (about 7 ounces). There is a visible label on the bag’s exterior that you can see filling up so you can see how many ounces are in each bag as you fill it with liquid. Additionally, there are spots to write the child’s name and the date when necessary so that the bags may be used in a timely way. These also stand up on their own, making it easy to store or put in the refrigerator to defrost after freezing.

Each bag is constructed from plastic that is free of BPA and DEHP. Also of note is that Spectra Baby USA is administered and owned by women, who include nurse practitioners, certified lactation consultants, and a variety of other professionals. Spectra has a wealth of professional and personal experience, and she understands what mothers need.

One thing to keep in mind is that you cannot directly pump into these bags. Additionally, for the measuring scale to function properly, you must ensure that the bag is seated with the sides fully inflated. If this is not done, the bag will seem to have more ounces than there are.

Pros 

• BPA free plastic 
• Pre-sterilized 
• Double zipper 
• Holds up to 7 ounces

Cons 

• Cannot pump directly into the bags 

What to Look for When Buying Best Breast Milk Storage Bags (Buying Guide)

Cost

While the most majority of breast pump packs are single-use items, you’ll want to think about how many you’ll use in a particular day, week, and month, as well as how much it will cost in total over a year. Several variables influence the number of bags you’ll need, including whether or not you’re solely pumping, how much breastmilk you’re able to make in a session, and how much time you expect to be pumping each session.

You may want to consider purchasing in bulk since the number of bags you use adds up over time. Hence, even a $0.10 price difference per bag may have a significant effect on your pocketbook.

Capacity

Approximately how much milk do you typically produce in a single session? Some women can express one or two ounces of milk in a single session, while others appear to generate an excessive amount of milk that they cannot use. Consider if a six-ounce bag would suit your needs or whether you want something that can store eight ounces or more. Alternatively, you may want to get a couple of various sizes so that you are ready for anything that comes your way. Keep in mind how much the bags can store and how that quantity compares with your normal production output.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, modest two to four-ounce quantities of milk should be stored in the refrigerator, particularly for newborns less than six weeks of age. Once defrosted, smaller portions may assist in avoiding waste while also speeding up the warming process. 

Type of Closure

There is a reason why breast milk is referred to as “liquid gold,”. So, the last thing you want is leaking your milk storage bag and wasting all of that precious goodness. You should search for a sturdy storage bag specifically designed for breast milk storage, is not prone to tearing at the seams, and has a sturdy closure to prevent leakage.

Three of the most often used closure styles are the twist cap, single zip, and double zip. There is no assurance that any of these models will be spill-proof, although some are more trustworthy than others. To determine whether or not other customers have had regular difficulties with leakage or inadequate sealing of the breast milk storage bag, read some customer reviews before making your purchase.

Material

Plastic is the most common material for breast milk storage bags, and it is also one of the most cost-effective options available. It may be easy to use any plastic bottle you have lying around the house to store your breast milk, but the best alternatives are those that are particularly made to keep breast milk.

If you decide to use plastic, be certain that the bag does not contain BPA. As opposed to plastic or glass containers, storage bags are more prone to leaking. Therefore look for features such as secure closing types, twin zippers, and add thickness.

Durability

If you place your milk storage bag in the fridge and it starts to leak, you’re not going to be happy with yourself. Make certain that the milk bags you purchase are punctured- and leakproof and that they can handle being packed tightly in a freezer.

Adapters

One desirable feature is the ability to pump straight into the bags, making the entire procedure much simpler. However, should you note that this is normally only supported when the storage bag and breast pump are both from the same manufacturer—using a mix-match system? Check to see if they have their converters, or attempt to locate a standard adapter on Amazon to connect to your system.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do you need to store breast milk in bags or jars?

The majority of nursing moms consider breast milk storage bags an absolute need. If you’re planning to return to work while still breastfeeding, or if you just want to have a child-free evening out, then releasing your milk provides you with the option to do so while ensuring that your child does not miss out on any important nutrients. Expressing milk provides your spouse with the opportunity to feed the baby. It also allows them to feel more engaged and allows you to get some much-needed rest. If you are primarily breastfeeding, producing milk gives you the opportunity to get some rest.

However, if you choose to use a reusable milk storage bag, be sure to wash it properly before each use. Also, make sure to sterilize it before each use.

How long can I store my breast milk?

According to the National Health Service (NHS), if the temperature is maintained low enough, breast milk storage bags may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 9 days and in the freezers for up to 6 months. Your baby should consume the defrosted milk as soon as possible, preferably within 24 hours after defrosting. Remember to label your breast milk with the date on it before keeping it in the refrigerator.

Unless you want to store your breast milk in the freezer, don’t fill the bag to the brim. This is due to the fact that liquid expands when frozen, which may result in the bag splitting.

It may be more cost-effective to freeze smaller volumes of milk in individual bags rather than refrigerating a large bag of milk only to discover that your kid isn’t really that thirsty after all. There is nothing sadder than seeing all of that delicious white stuff go down the drain.

I’m not sure how many breast milk storage bags I’ll need.

It is dependent on the situation. Purchasing additional milk bags may be a smart idea if you’re returning to work and need to stock up on supplies rather than having some on hand. Breast milk storage bags are a life saver just in case you need it for an occasional night out on the town.

For reference, exclusively breastfed newborns consume an average of 750ml of milk each day between the age of one and six months. This is is the equivalent of slightly more than four 180ml breast milk ziplock bags throughout this time period. All newborns, however, are unique. The normal range of milk consumption is somewhere between 570ml and 900ml per day for a healthy infant.

How soon after giving birth should I freeze my breast milk?

You should freeze your breast milk within three days after collection if you have kept it in the refrigerator prior, according to experts.

Can I keep breast milk from the same day in the same bag as breast milk from the previous day?

Yes, but only if it has been newly pumped and is still warm to the touch at body temperature. To combine your fresh milk that you have just pumped with refrigerated milk from the same day, you must first chill the milk down.

Is it possible to pump directly into a bag?

It all depends on the kind of bag you choose. According to the manufacturer, the Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags are a great choice that you can link directly to a breast pump. However, always double-check that the bag fits with your pump before making a purchasing decision.

Which kind of breast milk storage bag is the most effective?

Mumsnetters like the Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags because they are simple to use and leakproof, according to their feedback. You can even put your milk straight into the bags themselves, which is a nice touch.

Conclusion

Finding the best breast milk storage bag is a matter of determining what will work best for you as a parent. Ideally, you want to choose a brand that will not leak and squander your valuable milk. Additionally, consider factors such as convenience, a tag for names, and suitability with your pumping system before making your pick.

Our best pick is Lansinoh Breastmilk Storage Bags. They are simple to connect to the pump and freeze with a single hand. They provided all of the functionality I needed at an affordable price, and they were simple to use.

Hopefully, this article has been useful in helping you locate the best breast milk storage bags for you.