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For pumping moms, keeping that precious liquid gold, breastmilk, cold until they get home is essential. The right cooler can make a world of difference, especially when on the go. There are tons of options out there, from insulated bottle bags to breast milk transport sets. So, what’s best for you? Well, that depends on a variety of factors, like how many bags of breastmilk you’re carrying or how long you need it to stay cold. We’ve put together a list of some of the top picks available in 2023 to help you navigate this often confusing market. Let’s dive right in!
Before we get started, it’s worth mentioning that you’ll want to consider a few key features when shopping for a breastmilk cooler. Look for coolers that feature two-way zippers and ample room to hold your milk. Some models can hold up to 16 cubes! There’s also the option to go for something more stylish, like the Skip Hop Grab & Go double bottle bag. It’s not just about keeping your milk cold, but doing it in style.
Lastly, don’t forget about the importance of insulation. The Skip Hop insulated breastmilk cooler, for example, is a fantastic option for keeping your milk nice and chilly. But remember, the best cooler for you ultimately depends on your specific needs. So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at some of the top breastmilk coolers available in 2023.
Top 5 Breast Milk Coolers in the Market
1. Momcozy Baby Bottle Bag
First up on the list is the Momcozy Baby Bottle Bag. Now this bad boy, available on Amazon starting at $14, is quite the deal. With a cute pattern and plenty of room to hold a lot of bottles, it’s a hit with many moms. Plus, it has room for an ice pack to extend its cooling capabilities. Some moms even swear they get 12 hours plus of solid cooling even without an ice pack.
This cooler bag is lightweight and comes with three layers of non-toxic insulating fabric to keep your breast milk storage bags nice and cold. It also features an interior mesh pocket, which is a handy little place to store things like bottle caps or feeding spoons. And let’s not forget about the design. The Camellia pattern is hard to pass up. It’s almost like carrying a trendy lunch bag instead of a cooler!
While there’s no shoulder strap, it does offer a detachable buckle on its top strap. This lets you hang it from your diaper bag, work bag, or even your stroller. So you can easily tote around your bottles or sippy cups without any hassle. And did I mention the size? It measures 11 x 9 x 1 inches and weighs just 3 ounces. Lightweight and compact, it’s perfect for on-the-go situations.
Pros
- Ample storage space for up to 6 bottles
- Three layers of non-toxic insulating fabric
- Interior mesh pocket for additional storage
- Detachable buckle for easy attachment to diaper bag or stroller
- Compact and lightweight design for easy transport
Cons
- No shoulder strap
- May not keep breast milk cold enough in very hot climates
2. Medela Breast Milk Cooler and Transport
Next up, we have the Medela Breast Milk Cooler and Transport. Now, this cooler is all business. It’s got a secret agent vibe like you’re carrying important cargo. And let’s be honest, what’s more important than your baby’s food?
Also available on Amazon and starting at $17, this double zipper bag fits snugly into the breast pump bags for the brand’s Sonata, Freestyle, and Pump in Style pumps. So it’s perfect for those moms who are already fans of Medela’s products.
The procust comes with one ice pack and four five-ounce bottles with lids. Now that’s convenient! And while it’s designed for Medela bottles, it can fit Spectra bottles too. So you’re not limited to just one brand. The size of this cooler is 5 x 6 x 6 and it weighs around 1 pound. It’s compact enough to carry around and sturdy enough to safely store breast milk.
But here’s the kicker – it doesn’t hold 8 oz bottles. So if you’re pumping more than 5 ounces at a time, this might be a deal-breaker. But if you’re okay with storing your milk in smaller quantities, then the Medela Breast Milk Cooler and Transport set could be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- Comes with a nifty detachable handle
- Extra storage pocket for your pump parts
- Can fit up to four 8-ounce breast milk bottles
- Includes a freezer pack
- Made from easy-to-clean nylon
Cons
- Might be a bit pricey
- The size could be a bit limiting for some
3. Sarah Wells Breast Milk Cooler
Alright, let’s talk about that Sarah Wells Cold Gold Breastmilk Cooler. It’s not your regular, run-of-the-mill cooler, no sir. This little bag of wonders is specifically designed for your breast milk bottles. It’s a cooler bag for breastmilk, but with a lot more to offer. Just think about it, a bag that’s got an ice pack included, extra storage for pump parts, and even a sleeve for your baby’s photo. Talk about attention to detail!
Now, this cooler bag ain’t just about the bells and whistles. It’s also got the basics covered. It’s sized just right to hold four 8-ounce breast milk bottles. That’s a decent stash of milk for your little munchkin. And the bag, it’s made from easy-to-clean nylon. Because let’s face it, nobody has time for complicated cleaning routines. Plus, it’s got an adjustable and detachable handle, so you can hook it on your diaper bag or stroller. That’s convenient right there.
And let’s not forget the aesthetics. This ain’t your boring old cooler bag. The Sarah Wells Cold Gold Breastmilk Cooler comes in patterns that go well with the other bags in the line. So, if you’re the kind who likes to match, this cooler bag’s got you covered. And the dimensions? A neat 6 x 6 x 6 inches and weighs a measly 1 pound. Compact and light. Just the way we like it.
Pros
- Comes with freezable gel
- Fits well into most pumping bags
- Easy to clean
- Has a clear pocket where you can put a name tag
Cons
- Freezable gel takes up to 12 hours to freeze
- Can hold four 5-ounce bottles only
4. PackIt Breast Milk Cooler
Now let’s dive into the world of the PackIt Freezable Breast Milk Cooler. This ain’t your grandma’s cooler bag. Nope, this bag is a game-changer in the breast milk cooling business. See, the good folks at PackIt decided to throw the ice pack out the window and infused the walls of the cooler with a freezable gel. You heard that right, a freezable gel. Ain’t that something?
Here’s how it works. You stick the whole bag in the freezer for a good 12 hours. Yeah, it’s a bit long, but trust me, it’s worth it. Once it’s frozen, the cooler is ready to keep your milk fresh and cool. It’s got a main compartment split in two by a central wall, which also has the freezable gel. That’s double the cooling power. And the best part – it can hold four 5-ounce bottles, with room to spare for a couple of small feeding accessories.
But that’s not all. This cooler bag has a clear pocket located on the front where you can put a name tag. Isn’t that thoughtful? And it comes in six designs. Because who says a breast milk cooler can’t be stylish? And the cleaning process? Just wipe it clean, and it’s good as new. Just like that. Now, that’s a cooler bag worth getting, wouldn’t you agree?
Pros
- Can accommodate up to six bottles
- Made from a sturdy, tear-resistant material
- Sleek design
- Comes with an adjustable strap
- Can store breastmilk storage bags as well as bottles
Cons
- Maybe a little too bulky for some mothers
5. Jax 2020 Breast Milk Cooler Bag
Here’s something for all those hard working mothers out there who are pumping the liquid gold. The Jax 2020 Breast Milk Cooler Bag is a sturdy companion for your daily grind. This little gem is made from tear-resistant canvas material. It’s got enough space to hold up to six tall bottles. So whether you’re off to work, daycare, or even a family road trip, this bag has got you covered.
One unique feature of this bag is its inner strap. With this, you can hang breastmilk storage bags as well as bottles. Talk about versatility, huh? The bag also has a leak proof design and a wipeable bottom. Spills and stains? Ain’t nobody got time for that! This bag lets you focus on what matters – storing your precious breast milk safely.
Now, it may not come with an ice pack, but don’t let that deter you. There are a ton of compatible ice packs out there in the market. Just pop one in, and your milk is good to go. With its admirable insulation, the Jax 2020 Breast Milk Cooler Bag is a solid choice for mothers on the move.
Pros
- Large enough to fit six tall bottles
- Super comfortable to carry around
- Made from tear-resistant material
- Perfect for traveling with
- Sleek, fashionable design
Cons
- May be too large
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Breast Milk Cooler for Your Needs
Alright, so you’re in the market for a breast milk cooler. There are quite a few things to consider when making your choice:
Size
Size is a big factor when choosing a breast milk cooler. You gotta think about how many bottles or storage bags you plan on carrying. Some coolers can accommodate six tall bottles, while others are more compact and can only fit a few. Think about your daily routine and how much milk you typically pump. This will give you an idea of what size cooler is best for you.
Also, consider where you’ll be storing the cooler. If it’s in your work fridge, you might want something more compact so it doesn’t take up too much space. But if you’re going on a road trip and have ample room, a larger cooler could be more beneficial. Again, it all boils down to your personal needs and circumstances.
Versatility
When it comes to breast milk coolers, versatility is a big deal. Let’s think about this. You’re juggling baby bottles, diapers, and who knows what else. Having a cooler that can pull double duty is like finding a twenty in your old jeans. You don’t just want a cooler that can hold your milk. You want one that can hold your other baby stuff too.
Some coolers are picky and only want to hang out with bottles from their brand. That’s just being snobby. You need a cooler that can play nice with everyone. One that can hold any bottle, bag, or even your breast pump. That’s the kind of versatility you should be looking for.
Build Type and Quality
Now, let’s talk about the build type and quality of these coolers. It’s like buying a car, you want something that’s well-built and gonna last. Some coolers have a built-in cooling mechanism while others come with a separate ice pack. If you’ve ever left an ice pack in the freezer too long, you know it can get frozen solid. That’s the kind of cold we’re talking about here.
On the one hand, a built-in cooler sounds great. You just freeze the whole thing and pop it in your bottles or bags. No fiddling with a separate ice pack. But then, the whole cooler can be cold to the touch. And let me tell you, nobody wants to carry around a block of ice! So, pick your poison.
Ease of Cleaning
Next up is cleaning. I don’t know about you, but I’ve got better things to do than scrub a cooler. You want something that you can just wipe clean. None of this soaking in hot soapy water nonsense. It’s 2023 people, we have technology on our side!
Think about it. You get home from work, you’re tired, and the last thing you want to do is wash dishes. So, a cooler that you can just wipe down and be done with it? That’s a winner in my book.
Budget
Let’s talk about the budget. We’ve all got one. Now, some of these coolers can hold a bunch of tall bottles. Some can even hold up to 9 full-size bottles. Others are more frugal and can just squeeze in about 4 bottles. The point is, there’s a cooler for every wallet size.
Some coolers come with extras like a front pocket for your bibs, spoons, or burp cloths. Some even fit into diaper bags. But remember, all these extras can add up. So, figure out what you need, and what you can afford, and go from there.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are bigger coolers better?
Bigger isn’t always better, folks. I mean, sure, a bigger cooler can hold more bottles. But then you’re lugging around this ginormous thing all day. It’s like carrying a baby…on top of carrying your actual baby!
What’s more important is how well the cooler keeps your milk cold. And for how long? You could have the biggest cooler in the world, but if it can’t keep your milk cold, what’s the point? So, don’t just go for the biggest one. Pick the one that does the job best.
2. Do babies prefer warm or cold breast milk?
As every new parent knows, babies are pretty picky little creatures. But when it comes to breast milk, do they prefer it icy cold or toasty warm? The answer is kind of like Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Not too hot, not too cold, but just right. Babies generally prefer breast milk that mirrors their body temperature, which is around 98.6 degrees. That’s why many moms tote around bottle warmers or use warm water to heat milk before feeding.
However, it’s important to know that each baby is different. Some are cool with slurping down chilled milk, while others need their milk warm. Don’t be surprised if your little one throws you a curveball. Remember, they’re just trying to keep you on your toes. So, if your baby turns up their nose at a bottle, try adjusting the temperature. It might just do the trick.
3. How long can breastmilk stay in a cooler bag?
Alright, so you’re on the move, running errands, and you’ve got some precious cargo with you – your breast milk. You’ve pumped and filled 2 bottles full of liquid gold. Now, you need to keep it cool until you can get it home. Enter the breast milk cooler bag. According to the folks who know a thing or two about this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breastmilk can be stored in an insulated cooler with ice packs for up to 24 hours.
These bottle coolers are a real lifesaver, especially when you’re out and about. Look for one with a waterproof interior so any melt from the ice packs doesn’t get your stuff all soggy. Once you hit the 24-hour mark, you gotta get that milk in a fridge or freezer, pronto. So, with that in mind, try not to break out in a sweat if you’re a little late getting home. Your milk is chillin’ safe and sound in its cooler bag.
4. How long can breastmilk stay in the fridge without power?
So, the power’s out and you’re starting to sweat. Not because of the temperature, but because you’ve got a stash of breast milk in the fridge. How long can it last without the juice keeping it cool? Here’s the deal. If the power’s out but the fridge door stays closed, your milk should stay safe for about 4 hours. Any longer than that and you might want to have a backup plan in place.
Consider packing the milk in a cooler with ice or moving it to a fridge with power if you can. If the power outage is likely to last more than a few hours, you might need to get creative. Remember, your breast milk is precious cargo, so do what you can to keep it safe when the lights go out.
5. How many times can I reheat breast milk?
Now here’s a question that has probably kept more than a few moms up at night. How many times can you reheat breast milk? It’s a good question and one that needs a straight answer. Once you’ve heated breast milk, you only get one shot at it. If your baby doesn’t finish the bottle, you’ve got about two hours to use it before it needs to hit the trash.
Remember, breast milk is like liquid gold. Don’t waste it by reheating it more than once. If your kiddo is a slow eater, consider dividing the milk into smaller portions. That way, you only heat up what you need and the rest stays cool. It’s a win-win situation – you save milk and your baby gets a warm meal. Now that’s what I call a good deal.
Wrapping Up
That’s the long and short of it, folks. Whether you’re a new parent trying to juggle feedings and diaper changes or an experienced parent looking to streamline your routine, a breastmilk cooler can be a game changer. These handy devices keep milk fresh and safe, so you can focus on what matters – spending quality time with your little one. And hey, who says practical can’t be pretty, right? With the coolers we’ve talked about, you can keep your baby’s food fresh in style. That’s right, each one of these coolers boasts a stylish design, so you can carry them around without cramping your style.
Remember, choosing the right cooler isn’t just a matter of picking the prettiest one, though. Pay attention to the size, build quality, and other factors we’ve discussed. Not all coolers are created equal, and the best one for you depends on your unique needs and preferences. So take your time, weigh your options, and make a choice that works best for you and your baby. Happy feeding, folks!
Wrapping Up
That’s the long and short of it, folks. Whether you’re a new parent trying to juggle feedings and diaper changes or an experienced parent looking to streamline your routine, a breastmilk cooler can be a game changer. These handy devices keep milk fresh and safe, so you can focus on what matters – spending quality time with your little one. And hey, who says practical can’t be pretty, right? With the coolers we’ve talked about, you can keep your baby’s food fresh in style. That’s right, each one of these coolers boasts a stylish design, so you can carry them around without cramping your style.
Remember, choosing the right cooler isn’t just a matter of picking the prettiest one, though. Pay attention to the size, build quality, and other factors we’ve discussed. Not all coolers are created equal, and the best one for you depends on your unique needs and preferences. So take your time, weigh your options, and make a choice that works best for you and your baby. Happy feeding, folks!

Hi, I’m Emily, a dedicated blogger and expert in infant nourishment and care. Parenthood is a beautiful journey, but it can be overwhelming. My mission is to make it easier for you. I’m here to share my knowledge, offer guidance, and provide nurturing advice as you navigate the world of baby care.