How Do I Send in My Breastmilk Sample?
Before the actual shipment, we recommend keeping your breastmilk sample frozen or refrigerated in case there’s a delay during shipping (Note: the sample does not have to be fresh by the time it reaches us). Shipping your sample to us will depend on where you live in reference to our base of operations. To break it down, we have different sample shipment processes and policies based on two categories: US and Canada customers, and international customers.
U.S. and Canada customers:
After confirming and processing your order, we will send you a leak-proof container bag labeled with your name and order number. There will also be clear instructions, and a pre-paid return envelope for easy shipping.
International customers:
You will receive the same container and instructions, but return shipping costs must be covered by you. We apologize for this inconvenience.
Can I use previously stored or frozen breastmilk?
Yes! Fresh, frozen, or stored breastmilk are all acceptable as samples. As long as your breastmilk sample does not contain mold, we will accept the sample, even if it is yellowing, expired, or has an odor.
Do I need to refrigerate the breastmilk during shipping?
Not at all. Our storage container bags are filled with breastmilk preservatives to keep the breastmilk stable during transit, regardless of its age, so the sample does not need refrigerating. This makes the whole process much more convenient for you!
How much breastmilk is needed for a sample?
We only need 10 ml of fresh or thawed breast milk for your sample. Please do not add more than this amount, as overfilling the bag may cause it to burst during shipping. A little less can still work, but please try to adhere to the amount of 10mL so we have enough material to complete your jewelry.
Do I need to dry/preserve the breastmilk before sending it? What if my breastmilk is expired or has an odor?
No need to dry/preserve your sample. Again, our storage container bags are filled with breastmilk preservatives to keep the breastmilk stable during transit. After we receive your sample, we will cure and dry it ourselves into breastmilk powder for crafting your jewelry piece.
Due to this curing process, we can work with breastmilk that has expired or has an odor, as the curing powder stabilizes the breastmilk into a powder, so the expiration/odor will not matter then.
Can I send formula instead of breast milk?
Yes, you can send a formula sample for us to craft your jewelry. However, formula contains fats that can get trapped during the curing process, so your jewelry piece is more likely to turn yellow over time compared to using breastmilk.
Related Questions
How durable is breast milk jewelry?
Will the jewelry’s color change over time?
Can I use hair or a piece of clothing instead of breastmilk or ashes?
What if there is no preservative in my breastmilk collection bag?
What happens to any leftover materials after my jewelry is completed?