Breastfeeding is a beautiful journey, but it can also be a challenging one. One of the most common challenges is the storage of breast milk. Enter the pitcher method of collecting and storing breastmilk, a systematic and efficient approach that can save you time and space. But what makes this method even better? The Junobie Milk Boxis a silicone carton designed specifically for this purpose and is designed to look just like a good old milk carton!

The pitcher method is a simple yet effective way of collecting and storing breast milk. It involves pumping breastmilk throughout the day and storing it in a single container, such as a pitcher or milk carton. This method is particularly beneficial for mothers who pump multiple times a day. Instead of dealing with numerous bottles or milk bags, you only need to handle one container.

The pitcher method is safe for breast milk as long as you follow proper hygiene practices. Always wash your hands before handling breast milk and cool freshly pumped milk in the refrigerator before adding it to your pitcher. Once you have collected the breastmilk during the day you can then pour it into bottles to use the next day or you could freeze it for later use. You can read all about safely storing breastmilk here.

The pitcher method also provides a balanced milk distribution. As you pump throughout the day, the milk's components, including the foremilk (the first batch of milk) and hindmilk (the last bunch of milk), naturally mix together. This results in a balanced nutrient profile for each feeding, providing your baby with a consistent supply of essential nutrients.

Step 1: Wash your hands and ensure the surfaces and equipment you’ll be using are all clean

Step 2: Express your breast milk. Use a breast pump or hand expression to collect your breast milk in sterile containers. If you are expressing at different times of the day, ensure that all of your milk is refrigerated first before adding it into a single milk box so that the temperatures of the milk you’ve collected are not all different which can compromise the milk.

Step 3: Pour the expressed breast milk into the clean, sterilised milk box. If needed, you can use a funnel to make pouring easier and avoid spills.

Step 4: Gently swirl the milk box to mix the milk. Avoid shaking vigorously, as it can cause the milk to break down and separate. Remember to leave some space at the top of the bags or bottles for expansion during freezing or reheating.

Step 5: Store the filled milk boxes in the refrigerator or freezer according to your needs. If storing in the refrigerator, use the milk within 24 hours. If storing in the freezer, check guidelines for recommended storage times.

When you're ready to use the stored breast milk, follow appropriate guidelines for thawing and warming it, such as placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using a bottle warmer. Remember to always prioritise hygiene, proper labelling, and safe handling when using the pitcher method for breast milk. Additionally, consult with your healthcare provider or lactation consultant for any specific instructions or recommendations based on your situation.

The pitcher method offers several advantages. It saves space in your refrigerator, as you only need to store one container instead of multiple bottles. This method also reduces the number of bottles you need to wash, clean, and sterilise, saving you precious time.

Moreover, the pitcher method allows for better control of your milk supply. You can easily see how much milk you have pumped and stored, which can help you manage your milk supply more effectively.

While any clean, safe container can be used for the pitcher method, the Junobie Milk Box stands out as the best choice. This silicone carton is specifically designed for storing breast milk, offering several benefits that make it perfect for the pitcher method.

Firstly, the Junobie Milk Box is made of silicone, a material that is safe for storing breast milk. Silicone is free from harmful chemicals and can be easily cleaned and sterilized.

Secondly, the Junobie Milk Box is designed with a tight-fitting lid, which is crucial for storing breastmilk. This feature ensures that your milk is kept safe and fresh, preventing any potential contamination.

Lastly, the Junobie Milk Box is incredibly durable. Unlike glass or plastic containers, silicone is less likely to break or crack. This means that you don't have to worry about losing your precious milk supply due to accidental drops or knocks.

The pitcher method for thawing breast milk involves moving the desired amount of frozen milk from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you need it. By morning, the milk should be thawed and ready to use.

Three common methods for storing breast milk include refrigeration, freezing, and deep freezing. Here are the rules for each of those methods:

Refrigeration: Breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days at 4°C or lower. Freezing: If you don't plan to use the milk within 4 days, it's best to freeze it. Frozen breast milk can be stored for up to 6 months in a standard freezer.

Deep Freezing: In deep-freeze conditions (-20°C or lower), breast milk can be stored for up to 12 months.

Remember, these are general guidelines and the quality of stored milk can be influenced by factors such as the cleanliness of the pump used and the temperature of the refrigerator or freezer.

While you can technically store breast milk in any clean, sealed container, it's best to use containers designed specifically for breast milk storage, like the Junobie Milk Box. These containers are made from safe materials and are designed to protect the nutritional quality of your milk.

The pitcher method of collecting and storing breast milk is a practical and efficient solution for breastfeeding mothers. And when paired with the Junobie Milk Box, it becomes even more beneficial. This silicone carton offers safety, durability, and convenience, making it the ideal choice for the pitcher method. So, if you're a breastfeeding mother looking for a better way to manage your milk supply, consider the pitcher method and the Junobie Milk Box.