Can Breastmilk Popsicles Help Teething Babies?

If you’ve ever watched your baby struggle through teething, you know how overwhelming those moments can feel. Between endless drool, extra fussiness, and a sleep schedule that suddenly throws the whole family off, it’s a lot to handle. When you’re in the thick of it, finding something that actually helps can feel like a major win.

That’s why more parents are turning to breastmilk popsicles — a simple, inexpensive, at-home remedy that helps soothe sore gums. Here’s everything you need to know about breastmilk popsicles and why they might be worth a try.

Why parents are making breast milk popsicles

Many parents turn to breastmilk popsicles when their babies start teething, typically between 6 and 12 months. During teething, gums become swollen and tender, often leading to increased drooling, discomfort, and irritability. Sleep can get thrown off, and your baby may seem clingier than usual. It's a tough stretch for both of you.

That’s why more parents are giving breastmilk popsicles a try. Breastmilk popsicles are exactly what they sound like: breastmilk that’s been placed into a popsicle mould and frozen. The cold temperature can help soothe sore gums, offer relief, and make those teething days a bit more manageable.

Are breastmilk popsicles safe?

When used correctly, breastmilk popsicles can be a great option for babies. “When safely prepared and offered while supervised, breastmilk popsicles can be a fun way for babies to explore new temperatures and textures,” says Brittany Brown, RD, International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant. “As with any food, the portion, recipe, and texture should be adapted to the baby's developmental needs.”

That said, timing and readiness matter. Popsicles are best offered once your baby can hold them independently and self-feed, a developmental milestone that typically occurs around the 6-month mark. Younger babies may not have the coordination skills, and placing any food (even soft or meltable foods like breastmilk popsicles) directly into a baby’s mouth can increase the risk of choking.

When babies bring food to their own mouths, they’re better able to control it, and their swallowing reflexes are more coordinated. For that reason, it’s important to make sure your baby is ready and able to hold and self-feed before offering a breastmilk popsicle.

Step-by-step: How to make breastmilk popsicles

Making breastmilk popsicles is as easy as it sounds. With just a few simple steps and basic supplies, you can turn your breast milk into a cold, comforting treat your baby will love. Here’s how:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with warm soap and water.
2. Use freshly expressed or refrigerated breast milk. Gently swirl the milk before pouring to evenly distribute the fat.
3. Pour the milk into popsicle moulds.
4. Freeze until solid.
5. Once frozen, transfer popsicles to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.
6. Label each popsicle with the date it was made.

Even though these are popsicles, they’re still breast milk, so proper storage is important. “Follow standard breastmilk storage guidelines,” says Brown. Breast milk can be stored in a freezer for about six months or up to 12 months in a deep freezer. If your breastmilk popsicle has thawed, do not refreeze it.

The best baby-friendly moulds and feeders

Since babies will be holding and feeding themselves, it’s important to choose popsicle moulds that are designed for little hands. Look for short handles that are easy to grip and moulds with a stable base so they won’t tip over in your baby’s grip. “Small moulds that hold about one-ounce volumes for age-appropriate portions [are],” says Brown. She adds that silicone moulds are a top choice because the popsicles easily pop out, plus the moulds are simple to clean.

Simple breastmilk popsicle ideas

Once your baby reaches 6 months and starts eating solid foods, you can get creative by blending breastmilk with other nutritious ingredients to make popsicles, such as soft fruits, cooked vegetables, and more. Breastmilk popsicles can also be a refreshing snack during warmer months, or a helpful way to keep your baby hydrated and nourished when they’re under the weather and not interested in nursing or taking a bottle.

Here are some simple, expert-approved recipe ideas. Just blend the ingredients together in a blender or food processor, pour into moulds, and freeze.

• Plain breastmilk popsicles
• Breastmilk + banana + peanut butter powder
• Breastmilk + strawberry + banana
• Breastmilk + avocado + squeeze of fresh orange
• Breastmilk + iron-fortified infant cereal + cinnamon
• Breastmilk + mashed berries + chia seeds
• Breastmilk + Greek yogurt + banana + spinach

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How old should my baby be before I give them breastmilk popsicles?

You can offer breastmilk popsicles once your baby is 6 months old. This is typically when they start bringing objects to their mouths and are developmentally ready to self-feed. Once your baby has started solids, you can also blend in other ingredients, like banana, avocado, sweet potato, or yogurt.

How often is okay?

There isn’t a strict guideline for how often you can give your baby breastmilk popsicles, but think of popsicles as a soothing tool, not a meal replacement. A good rule of thumb is to offer them between milk sessions. This helps ensure the popsicles don’t replace regular breastfeeding or bottle feeds, which are still the main source of nutrition for babies under 12 months.

Can I use formula instead?

“Yes, formula can be used, though it’s less common,” says Brown. “I typically don’t recommend using formula since freezing changes the texture a bit.” That said, formula popsicles are perfectly safe. Like with breastmilk popsicles, always supervise your baby while they’re enjoying a formula popsicle and make sure they are developmentally ready to self-feed.

The bottom line

Breastmilk popsicles are a safe, soothing way to combat the ickiness of teething while offering a cool, yummy treat. Prepared in the right way, you can create a whole array of fun flavours and textures for your little one to explore. And then give yourself a little pat on the back for making your baby’s favourite new homemade snack.