01/30/2026
Let it Snow... But Keep the Placenta Safe! ❄️
Here we go again! As the snow starts to pile up, we know your top priority is keeping your family (and your brand-new arrival) cozy and secure.
However, a heavy snowfall can throw a bit of a "chill" into your placenta encapsulation plans—and not the good kind. Whether you are at the hospital or laboring at home, here is how to keep your placenta safe for remedies if the power goes out or the snow keeps us off the roads.
🛑 The "Power Outage" Rule
If the heavy snow causes the lights to go out, your refrigerator will only stay at a safe temperature for about 4 hours.
The Fix: Keep the fridge door closed! If the power stays out longer, move your placenta into a cooler with fresh ice or—even better—into the freezer if it is still holding a chill.
❄️ When the Snow is Deep (The Freezer is Your Friend)
Usually, we aim to begin processing within the first 72 hours. However, if the snow means we can’t get to you (or you can’t get to us), move the placenta to the freezer within the first 24 hours.
Why? Freezing "stops the clock." It keeps the placenta perfectly preserved for up to six months, so we can safely encapsulate it once the sun comes out and the snow is cleared.
🏥 Hospital Births & Ice Refreshes
If you are at the hospital waiting for discharge, remember to refresh your ice every few hours. Since hospital staff might be stretched thin during a snowstorm, having your birth partner keep a close eye on that cooler is key!
📱 Communication is Everything
If your baby arrives while it's snowing, text us as soon as possible. Even if we can’t drive through the snow immediately, we can talk you through the best storage steps based on your specific situation (power status, fridge temps, etc.).
Quick Reminder: The placenta should be put on ice or in the fridge within 3 hours of birth. If you’re undecided or pickup is delayed by the snow, the freezer is the safest place to be!
Stay safe, keep those toes warm, and don't hesitate to reach out. We are snow-watching right along with you! 🏠