How to Use Hot and Cold Breast Therapy Packs
By Lansinoh UK | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to safely use hot and cold breast therapy packs for engorgement, clogged ducts, and mastitis relief. Step-by-step guide with tips.
Quick answer
Use hot therapy packs to encourage let-down and relieve clogged ducts, and cold packs to reduce swelling from engorgement or mastitis. Always wrap the pack in a thin cloth and limit sessions to 15–20 minutes.
When to use hot vs. cold
Heat increases blood flow and can help soften the breast before feeding or pumping, which makes it useful for encouraging let-down or loosening a clogged duct. Cold therapy constricts blood vessels and reduces inflammation, so it works best after feeding to ease engorgement or calm tender areas during mastitis.
Never apply heat to an already inflamed area for more than 20 minutes, as prolonged heat can worsen swelling. If you have mastitis, cold packs are generally safer after feeding to reduce pain without encouraging more milk production.
Safety checks before each use
Check the pack for any leaks or tears before heating or freezing. A damaged pack can leak gel, which may irritate skin or create a burn risk. Also test the temperature on the inside of your wrist before placing it on your breast.
Always wrap the pack in a thin cloth or muslin square. Direct contact with the skin can cause burns or frostbite, especially on sensitive postpartum tissue.
How to use breast therapy packs safely and effectively
- 1. Prepare the pack: For heat: submerge the pack in hot tap water for 2–3 minutes, or microwave on a low setting in 10-second bursts if the pack allows. For cold: place the pack in the freezer for at least 2 hours. Never boil or overheat. Do not microwave a pack that has a metal insert or that is not labelled microwave-safe.
- 2. Test the temperature: Press the wrapped pack against the inside of your wrist. It should feel comfortably warm or cool, not hot or icy. If it stings or burns, wait a few minutes or re-wrap with another layer. Sensitive postpartum skin can react faster—always test before each use.
- 3. Apply the pack: Place the wrapped pack directly on the sore area, avoiding the nipple. For engorgement, position it over the fullest part of the breast. For a clogged duct, angle the pack toward the blocked area. Leave on for 15–20 minutes. Set a timer; falling asleep with a pack on can cause burns or frostbite.
- 4. Use before or after feeding: Apply heat 5–10 minutes before nursing or pumping to help milk flow. Apply cold immediately after feeding to soothe swelling and reduce inflammation. Do not use heat right before feeding if you have mastitis—cold is safer post-feed.
- 5. Clean and store: Wipe the pack with a damp cloth and mild soap after each use. Let it air dry completely before storing. Do not submerge the pack in water to clean it. Moisture trapped in the storage bag can grow mould—keep the pack dry between uses.
Product facts
- Hot & Cold Breast Therapy Packs: These breast therapy pads are designed for use hot or cold to address engorgement, plugged ducts, and mastitis. You get one product that works for multiple breastfeeding challenges, saving money and storage space compared to separate hot and cold packs.
Hot & Cold Breast Therapy Packs
