How do I use and bag breast milk in Motif storage bags?
Using Motif breast milk storage bags is simple and sanitary. Follow these steps for the best results:
Label first: Write the date and volume on the label before filling to avoid smudging or puncturing the bag later.
Open: Tear off the safety seal and gently pull the zipper apart.
Pour: Carefully transfer milk from your collection bottle into the bag.
Remove Air: Squeeze as much air out as possible before sealing. This prevents freezer burn and saves space.
Seal: Press the double zipper firmly to ensure a leak-proof closure.
How to pump breast milk into storage bags?
To pump directly into your storage bags and avoid the mess of transferring milk, you will need a Motif Pump-to-Bag Adapter.
Attach: Screw the adapter onto your breast shield just like you would a bottle.
Clip: Hang your Motif milk storage bag on the adapter's hooks.
Pump: Begin pumping as usual. The milk will flow directly into the bag.
Seal: Once finished, unclip the bag, squeeze out the air, and seal the zipper tight.
How do I freeze breast milk in bags?
To maximize freezer space and ensure even freezing, lay the storage bag flat in the freezer until it is solid. Once frozen flat, you can stack the bags upright in a storage container to save space.
Important: Liquid expands when frozen. Do not fill the bag past the recommended maximum fill line (usually 6 oz) to prevent the bag from bursting.
How do I pump directly into a milk storage bag?
To pump directly into your storage bags and avoid the mess of transferring milk, you will need a Motif Pump-to-Bag Adapter.
Attach: Screw the adapter onto your breast shield just like you would a bottle.
Clip: Hang your Motif milk storage bag on the adapter's hooks.
Pump: Begin pumping as usual. The milk will flow directly into the bag.
Seal: Once finished, unclip the bag, squeeze out the air, and seal the zipper tight.
How do I defrost breast milk bags?
There are three safe ways to thaw your Motif breast milk bags:
Refrigerator: Place the frozen bag in the fridge overnight (approx. 12 hours).
Warm Water: Hold the sealed bag under warm running water or place it in a bowl of warm water.
Bottle Warmer: Use a bottle warmer specifically designed to accommodate milk bags.
Never microwave breast milk. Microwaving creates dangerous "hot spots" that can burn the baby’s mouth and destroy valuable nutrients and antibodies in the milk.
Can you reuse breast milk bags?
No. Motif breast milk storage bags are pre-sterilized and designed for single use only. Reusing bags, even if washed, can introduce bacteria and contaminate your breast milk. Always discard the bag after one use.
Do breast milk storage bags expire?
While the plastic material is durable, breast milk bags do have a shelf life regarding their sterility. Most bags have a shelf life of 3 to 5 years from the manufacturing date. Check the "Best By" or expiration date printed on the packaging.
How many breast milk bags do I need?
The amount depends on your pumping frequency:
Occasional Pumping: 1 box (30-50 count) is usually sufficient to start.
Return to Work/Exclusive Pumping: You may go through 2 to 4 bags per day. In this case, stocking up with 100+ bags is recommended to build a freezer stash.
Does insurance cover breast milk storage bags?
Many insurance plans, including those under the Affordable Care Act, cover breastfeeding supplies, including storage bags.
How can I get breast milk bags through insurance?
Motif Medical partners with various Durable Medical Equipment (DME) suppliers. You can use
our Insurance Lookup Tool to find where you can get Motif Medical products through insurance.