It is safe to put breast milk back in the fridge after warming it, but there are a few guidelines you should follow to ensure the safety and quality of the milk.
Firstly, it’s important to note that breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. So, if you warm the milk and your baby doesn’t finish the feeding, you have the option to save the remaining milk for future use.
When you warm breast milk, you should use a method that gently warms it, such as placing the bottle in a bowl of warm water or using a bottle warmer. Avoid using a microwave to heat breast milk, as it can create hot spots and destroy some of the beneficial properties of the milk.
After warming the breast milk, if your baby doesn’t consume all of it, you can safely put the remaining milk back in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply cover the bottle with a clean cap or lid and place it in the refrigerator as soon as possible.
It’s important to note that you should not leave warm breast milk out at room temperature for an extended period of time. Bacteria can grow rapidly in warm temperatures, which can lead to spoilage and potential illness if consumed by your baby. Therefore, it’s best to refrigerate any unused warmed breast milk promptly.
Additionally, it’s crucial to never refreeze breast milk that has been previously thawed or warmed. Once breast milk has been thawed or warmed, it should be used within 24 hours or discarded. Refreezing can lead to a loss of nutrients and potential contamination.
If your baby doesn’t finish a feeding and there is leftover breast milk in the bottle, it is recommended to discard it. This is because your baby’s saliva can introduce bacteria into the milk, and storing it for later use may increase the risk of bacterial growth.
While it is safe to put breast milk back in the fridge after warming it, there are important guidelines to follow. Refrigerate the milk promptly after warming, use it within 24 hours, and never refreeze previously thawed or warmed milk. Discard any leftover milk from a feeding to avoid potential contamination. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safety and quality of your breast milk for your baby’s consumption.