What is the best way to store a lot of milk?

[wendypf]

I have to wean DD starting tomorrow to start treatment for cancer

Luckily I have a friend who can pump 20oz at a time who is donating milk to us! We're starting w/10oz a day for DD (she's 1 and mostly comfort nurses). She's going to bring over a few days milk at a time.

How would you ask her to store and transport it? I would like to preserve the healthy benefits as much as possible.

thanks!

[PatioGardener]

If she is able to bring you 'fresh' milk, then I'd just keep it refrigerated rather than freezing it. If it needs to last longer than a week, I'd freeze it.

I'm not up on containers (glass vs plastic vs metal) but I'm sure someone else will chime in.

What an awesome friend Great to hear that your daughter will be able to have milk.

And sending you thoughts of strength and healing for your cancer treatment journey.

[justKate]

to you mama. I guess it depends on how far the donating mama will be traveling. There are good tips on milkshare.com re. storage and transportation, but I would probably just go with whatever is most convenient for her. If you anticipate needing to store a lot, you might look in to a stand-alone deep freezer. I got a nearly brand new one (5 cf) out of the classifieds for $75. Supposedly it lasts longer in a deep freezer b/c the temp. is steadier.

Good luck to you!

[averlee]

I think an insulated lunch box or cooler would be good enough. Does anyone just freeze & store bottles or sippy cups? Because that would be super easy, right?

[justKate]

Originally Posted by averlee

I think an insulated lunch box or cooler would be good enough. Does anyone just freeze & store bottles or sippy cups? Because that would be super easy, right?

It is easy, but you have to remember to leave a little room in the top for the milk to expand. And if you have A LOT to freeze, you're going to spend a lot of money on bottles/cups. I would go with the bags if you need to freeze. Lay them flat like shingles to freeze--that makes them stack better and defrost more quickly when you need them.