Hi, I'm a certified lactation consultant with years of experience helping mothers and babies with breastfeeding. I understand how important it is to provide your baby with the best possible nutrition, and I'm here to answer your question about storing breast milk safely.

## How long can breast milk sit out without being refrigerated?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the temperature of the room where the breast milk is stored and the age of your baby.

**Here's a breakdown of the guidelines from reputable organizations:**

* For healthy, full-term babies:
* Room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C): Freshly expressed breast milk can be kept at room temperature for up to 6 hours. However, it's best to use or refrigerate it within 4 hours, especially in warmer conditions.
* **Warmer temperatures (above 77°F or 25°C):** Breast milk should never be left out for more than 4 hours. Bacteria multiply quickly in warmer temperatures, increasing the risk of contamination.
* For premature or hospitalized infants:
* Due to their immature immune systems, these babies are more susceptible to infections. Therefore, it's crucial to follow stricter guidelines and use or refrigerate expressed breast milk within 4 hours, even at room temperature.

Why these guidelines matter:

Breast milk is a living fluid containing beneficial bacteria that naturally help fight off harmful bacteria. However, these good bacteria cannot completely eliminate the risk of contamination. Leaving breast milk out at room temperature for too long allows both good and bad bacteria to multiply, potentially increasing the risk of your baby getting sick.

**Here are some additional tips for safe handling of breast milk:**

* Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before expressing or handling breast milk.
* Use clean and sterilized bottles or bags for storing breast milk.
* Label the breast milk with the date and time it was expressed.
* Never refreeze thawed breast milk.
* If you are unsure whether or not breast milk is safe to use, **it's always best to err on the side of caution and discard it.**

**Remember, these guidelines are just that—guidelines. Always consult with your pediatrician or a certified lactation consultant if you have specific questions or concerns about storing your breast milk safely.**
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Freshly expressed breast milk can be kept at room temperature for up to six hours. However, use or proper storage within four hours is optimal. If the room is especially warm, the limit is also four hours. Insulated cooler.read more >>