The Best Coolers for Breast Milk for New Moms

When you become a mother, you quickly learn that your whole life is now centered around taking care of this little person. And one of the most important things you can do for your child is to make sure they have the best nutrition possible. That means making sure you have enough breast milk to feed them, whether at home breastfeeding or out and about bottle feeding. And that’s where a good breast milk cooler comes in.

A well-insulated cooler bag can help you keep your breast milk fresh and safe, whether you’re pumping at work or traveling with breast milk. But with so many cooler bags on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. We’ve put together a list of the best breast milk cooler bags based on our experience and research.

As a new mom, I did extensive research on the best breast milk cooler available so that I could travel with breast milk bottles for my baby. I found several cooler bags with ice packs that could keep the milk bottles cold for an extended time. I was so excited! Now, none of that liquid gold goes to waste while I travel.

Are breast milk coolers necessary?

Yes, a breast milk storage bag is necessary. The best way to safely store breast milk is in a compact cooler or an insulated baby bottle bag. If you don’t have one, then breast milk can only be left out for 4 hours before it starts to grow bacteria and lose nutritional value. You must refrigerate the fresh breast milk within that time to prevent spoilage.

If you are working or traveling, it is crucial to have a way to keep things cold while transporting breast milk after you pump. The best cooler for frozen breast milk is large and has good insulation with a contoured ice pack. A good cooler bag for work is small and easy to carry. It may also have an attached breast pump bag. It should also be durable and have good insulation. The best cooler bags for flying are TSA-approved. They should be small and have good insulation.

How to choose the best breast milk cooler

When looking for the best cooler for breast milk, you want to consider how long you need it to stay cold, how much space you need, and how easy it is to clean. Consider these factors when choosing a cooler for your breast milk storage.

Storage Capacity

Size is an important consideration when choosing a breast milk cooler. You want to make sure that it’s large enough to hold all of the milk bottles that you need but not so large that it’s challenging to carry around.

Portability

Another critical consideration is portability. You’ll want to make sure that the cooler bag you choose is easy to carry, whether you’re taking it by hand or in a diaper bag. If you’re traveling with your breast milk, you’ll want to make sure that the pack fits easily into a suitcase or carry-on bag.

Cooling System

Insulation is also vital in keeping your milk cold. The best coolers for breast milk have thick walls and a tight-fitting lid to keep the cold air in and the heat out. You’ll also want to look for a cooler with an attached or included ice pack.

Affordability

Price is another consideration when choosing a breast milk cooler. You want to find one that’s affordable and durable, and long-lasting.

Style

You’ll want to choose a stylish cooler that matches your personality. There are various colors and styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that you love.

Ease of Cleaning

Finally, you want to make sure that the cooler you choose is easy to clean. Breast milk can be a breeding ground for bacteria, so selecting an easy cooler to wipe down and keep clean is crucial.

Some coolers have removable liners that can be washed in the dishwasher, while others require hand-washing. Consider how easy it is to clean the cooler and whether you’re comfortable doing so.

Features of breastmilk cooler bags

A good breastmilk cooler bag should have a few specific features. It should be large enough to hold several baby bottles of milk and an ice pack, and it should be insulated to keep the milk cold for as long as possible. The bag should also be durable and easy to clean.

The best breast milk coolers tend to have an adjustable and detachable handle. Most of them have a contoured ice pack that helps keep the bottles cold.

Best Breast Milk Storage Bags and their features

Below, we list our top picks for breast milk storage bags. We’ve included a variety of bags to suit different needs, including large and small pouches, bags with attached breast pumps, and bags specifically designed for flying.

1. Nanobebe Breastmilk Bag Stay Cool Bundle

Nanobebe is one of the leading manufacturers of baby milk storage bags. The Nanobebe Breastmilk Baby Bottle Cooler and Travel Bag has a 3-layer insulated lining that will keep your breast milk nice and cold for up to 6 hours. What’s more, this bag also includes a separate ice pack to ensure that your milk will stay cold even on long car rides or walks.

Pros:

The Nanobébé Breastmilk Baby Bottle Cooler and Travel Bag is large enough to store up to 3 Nanobébé bottles and additional accessories like nipples or a breast pump. And because it’s made from BPA-free and Phthalate-free materials, you can rest assured that your little one is safe from harmful chemicals.

Overall, the Nanobébé Breastmilk Baby Bottle Cooler and Travel Bag is an excellent option for any new mom who wants to keep her breast milk cold and fresh. This cute cooler bag is durable, has plenty of space, and comes with an ice pack to keep things extra chilly.

Cons:

The only con about the Nanobébé Breastmilk Baby Bottle Cooler and Travel Bag is it only fits Nanobébé baby bottles. So, if you are using a different baby bottle brand, this cooler may not be compatible. However, Nanobébé offers a wide range of high-quality baby bottles, so this should not be a problem for most new moms.

2. Medela Breast Milk Cooler and Transport Set

When you’re a new mom, you have a lot of things to worry about – but your breast milk shouldn’t be one of them. That’s why it’s essential to find an excellent cooler to store your milk in, and the Medela Breast Milk Cooler and Transport Set is perfect for the job.

Pros:

The shoulder bag comes with an ice pack that keeps your milk cold for up to 12 hours and 4-5 oz breast milk bottles with lids. The contoured shape of the ice pack fits around the bottle perfectly, so you don’t have to worry about your milk spilling or leaking. The set is compact and easy to transport, so you can take it wherever you go.

Overall, the Medela Breast Milk Cooler is an excellent option for new moms that pump breast milk at work. It’s easy to use, durable and comes with everything you need to store and transport your milk safely.

Cons:

The only con for the Medela Breast Milk Cooler and Transport Set is that it doesn’t come with much storage space. If you have a lot of breast milk to store, you may need to use more than one bag. But overall, it’s an excellent cooler for new moms who want to keep their milk cold and fresh.

3. Babeyer Breast Milk Cooler Bag

As a new mom, one of your top priorities is keeping your breast milk fresh. The Babeyer Breast Milk Cooler Bag is the perfect option for you. It comes with an ice pack to keep the milk cold, and it fits up to four baby bottles.

Pros:

The insulated lining maintains a constant temperature for eight hours, ensuring your milk will stay fresh. The bag is also waterproof and wipeable, and it has a detachable buckle handle so you can attach it to your stroller. Plus, the side pocket gives you extra storage space for other items.

The Babeyer Breast Milk Cooler Bag is a high-quality, durable bag that makes breast milk storage easy and convenient.

Cons:

One downside is that there is no extra storage room. It fits the 4 bottles, but not much else.

4. Momojing Insulated Breastmilk Cooler Bag

If you are looking for an excellent cooler to store your breast milk in, check out the Momojing insulated breastmilk cooler bag.

Pros:

This bag comes with an ice back that can contour around 4-9oz bottles to keep your milk cold for up to 8 hours. The lining is also waterproof and wipable, so you don’t worry about spills. Plus, the bag is made of a resistant material that is durable and will last a long time.

So if you are looking for an excellent cooler to store your breast milk in, then the Momojing insulated breastmilk cooler bag is a great option.

Cons:

One possible con for the Momojing insulated breastmilk cooler bag is that Some users have said that the ice pack doesn’t stay cold for 8 hours. However, this seems to be a rare occurrence, and most users have had great experiences with the bag.

5. Lekebaby Breast Milk Cooler Bag

If you’re looking for a quality cooler bag to store your breast milk in, the Lekebaby Breast Milk Cooler Bag is a great option.

Pros:

It comes with an insulated lining that will keep your bottles cold for up to 8 hours, and it includes a contoured ice pack that will fit up to six bottles. It also has an adjustable strap for carrying, and it’s made with oxford fabric that is water-resistant and durable. Plus, it has a top opening or a front opening to choose the best option.

Cons:

The only con for the Lekebaby Breast Milk Cooler Bag is that it’s not large enough to hold tall bottles like the 8-9oz bottles, so if you need to have shorter bottles or use breastmilk bags.

6. Sarah Wells Cold Gold Breastmilk Cooler Bag

If you are a new mom, you know the importance of adequately storing breast milk. The Sarah Wells Cold Gold Breastmilk Cooler Bag is the perfect way to keep cold milk for 8 hours.

Pros:

This adorable cooler bag features top-of-the-line insulation, a high-quality custom ice pack, and is made from easy-to-clean, durable nylon. Additionally, all of the materials used in this cooler bag are BPA-free, PVC-free, phthalate-free, and lead-free. So you can rest assured that your milk is safe and protected. This cooler bag also features a clip to attach it to any bag for easy transportation.

Cons:

One con for the Sarah Wells Cold Gold Breastmilk Cooler Bag is that it does not fit Dr. Browns’ 8oz bottles, they are too tall. Additionally, this cooler bag is a bit on the expensive side.

7. Momcozy Insulated Baby Bottle Bag

If you’re looking for a bag to carry your breastmilk, this Momcozy Insulated Baby Cooler Bag is perfect. Compared to other bags on the market, this one has an insulated waterproof bag that effectively keeps your bottle cold and can be used as a lunch bag, wine carrier, or picnic bag.

Pros:

The detachable buckle makes it easy to hang on your stroller, making it convenient for on-the-go moms. The Momcozy Insulated Baby Bottle Bag also fits most brand bottles, including tall bottles and large bottles. It also has an area to keep accessories.

Cons:

The only downside is that the top layer can be challenging to remove if your bottle is taller than six inches. But, overall, this bag is easy to clean and super functional.

Best Cooler for Traveling with Breast Milk

8. Skip Hop Baby Cooler Bag

Skip Hop is a company that specializes in baby gear. They have taken their expertise and created the Skip Hop Baby Bottle Bag, which provides new moms with an easy way to transport breast milk from home to work.

Pros:

The double bottle bag has an insulated interior that will keep your bottles cold or warm for up to 10 hours so you can pack them in the morning and still have fresh milk for your baby at night. The two-way zipper allows you to access one or both bottles without unzipping the entire bag, and the insulated wipeable lining is easy to keep clean.

The detachable shoulder strap means you can carry it over your shoulder or attach it to your stroller. The interior mesh pocket is perfect for holding extra bottles, pacifiers, or wipes.

The Skip Hop Insulated Breastmilk Bag is the perfect solution for busy moms who want to keep their breast milk fresh and their baby happy.

Cons:

The only downside to the Skip Hop Baby Bottle Bag is that it doesn’t have a lot of extra space for other items. If you’re looking for a bag that can hold everything you need for your baby, this might not be the best option.

9. PackIt Freezable Baby Bottle Cooler for Breastmilk and Formula

If you’re an expecting parent or new mom who’s preparing for your little bundle of joy, you will want a PackIt Freezable Baby Bottle Cooler for Breastmilk and Formula. This cooler is perfect for keeping breast milk or bottles of formula cold whether you’re at home or on the go, and it doesn’t require any separate ice packs or gel packs.

Pros:

This cooler bag folds flat, so you can easily store it in your freezer until you need it. The cooler is also PVC-free, BPA-free, phthalate, and lead-free, and it features a non-toxic freezable gel built into the walls of each bag. So whether your little one is eating breast milk or formula, the PackIt Freezable Baby Cooler Bag is a great way to keep it cold.

Plus, the bag’s interior wipes clean in case of any spills. With a capacity of 4-5 oz bottles, this cooler has you covered whether you’re feeding your baby at home or on the go.

Cons:

The PackIt Freezable Baby Bottle Cooler for Breastmilk and Formula doesn’t have any cons that we could find. It’s an excellent cooler for keeping breast milk or formula cold, whether at home or on the go. The cooler folds flat, so it’s easy to store in your freezer.

Conclusion

If you’re a first-time mom who pumps, it may seem like the best cooler is an impossible find. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry- we’ve got your back! Whether you want something to keep your breast milk cold for up to 8 hours or need a bag that will fit up to 4-8 oz bottles and clip-on any stroller, we’ve got the perfect cooler. And, if you’re looking for a bag that can do it all, check out the Momcozy Insulated Baby Bottle Bag- it’s our top pick for the best cooler bag!

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and find the perfect cooler for your breast milk- your baby will thank you!

–> These are just a few of the reasons that coolers for breast milk are perfect for new moms who pump.

FAQs for Breast Milk Cooler Bags

1. How long does frozen breast milk last?

Frozen breast milk will last for up to six to twelve months when kept at or below 0°F. If you are going to freeze your breast milk, make sure to do so in batches no larger than 4 ounces each and label the containers with the date you froze it.

2. Can you keep breast milk in a cooler?

Yes, you can keep your freshly expressed breast milk in a cooler. Storing breast milk in a cooler bag with ice packs is recommended if you cannot use it within four hours.

3. What types of breast milk coolers are there?

There are a variety of breast milk coolers on the market, each designed to meet different needs. Most breast milk coolers are portable and perfect for taking on the go, while others are perfect for storing larger quantities of milk.

Some breast pump bags include an area that is insulated for storing milk. Even a breast milk cooler can be attached to your stroller! So, no matter what your needs are, there is a breast milk cooler out there that is perfect for you.

4. What is the best temperature for breast milk?

The best temperature for breast milk is between 66 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. If the milk is warmer than 72 degrees, it can start to spoil after 4 hours. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days.

5. How do I know if my breast milk has gone bad?

If you notice that your breast milk has a sour smell or unusual color, it has likely has gone bad and should be thrown out. You should also discard any milk that has been stored for longer than four hours at a temperature above 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. How long is breast milk good for in an insulated cooler?

It’s essential you know the shelf life of your breast milk and use it immediately, or you will compromise the quality. Breast milk is good for up to 4 days in a refrigerator and 6-12 months in a freezer. If you’re using an insulated cooler, breast milk is good for up to 24 hours.

7. How do I store my breast milk while traveling?

If you’re traveling with your breast milk, it’s essential to keep the breast milk cold and protected from light and heat exposure. The best way to do this is to carry breast milk in an insulated cooler with ice packs. You can also keep your breast milk colder in a refrigerator or freezer at your destination, but make sure to allow enough time to thaw before giving it to your baby.

8. How do you store breast milk in a cooler?

To store breast milk in a cooler, place it in a container or breast milk bags explicitly made for this purpose and pack it with ice packs. Ensure not to overload the container, preventing the milk from staying cold.

9. How do you store breast milk at work?

The best way to store breast milk at work is in a cooler with ice packs. You can also keep it in the refrigerator or freezer at your workplace, but allow enough time to thaw before giving it to your baby.

10. Can you take a cooler bag on an airplane?

Yes, you are allowed to bring a cooler bag on an airplane. However, the cooler bag must be able to fit underneath the seat in front of you or the overhead bin. Additionally, the weight of the cooler bag and its contents cannot exceed 40 pounds.

There you have it – our list and guide of the best breast milk coolers on the market. We hope this helps you make the best choice for yourself and your baby!