What can expired breast milk be used for?

The Versatile Uses of Expired Breast Milk
Breast milk, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is celebrated for its nutritional benefits for infants. However, what happens when this precious resource reaches its expiration date? Rather than discarding expired breast milk, many parents are discovering a variety of alternative uses that harness its unique properties.
Healing and Soothing Properties
One of the most notable aspects of breast milk is its soothing and healing properties. Even after it has expired, breast milk can still be beneficial for various skin conditions. For instance, it can be used to treat diaper rash, minor cuts, and even eczema. The natural antibodies and nutrients present in breast milk can help promote healing and provide relief from irritation.
Homemade Skin Care Products
Expired breast milk can be transformed into homemade lotions and soaps. Many parents have taken to creating breast milk soap, which is gentle on the skin and retains the beneficial properties of the milk. This process typically involves combining breast milk with oils and lye to create a nourishing bar of soap. Additionally, breast milk can be incorporated into lotions, providing a moisturizing effect that is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin.
Culinary Uses
Interestingly, some creative parents have even explored culinary applications for expired breast milk. While it may not be suitable for direct consumption, it can be used in cooking and baking. Recipes for pancakes, scones, and other baked goods can incorporate breast milk, adding a unique flavor and nutritional boost to the dishes. However, caution is advised, as the milk should be used only if it has not developed an off smell or taste.
Environmental Considerations
Using expired breast milk instead of discarding it also aligns with a growing trend towards sustainability. By repurposing this resource, parents can reduce waste and make the most of their efforts in breastfeeding. This approach not only benefits the environment but also allows parents to feel more connected to their breastfeeding journey, ensuring that no drop goes to waste.
Conclusion
In summary, expired breast milk can serve a multitude of purposes beyond infant nutrition. From soothing skin ailments to crafting homemade skincare products and even enhancing culinary creations, the potential uses are diverse and innovative. Rather than viewing expired breast milk as waste, many parents are embracing its versatility, ensuring that this valuable resource continues to provide benefits long after its initial intended use.

How do I get rid of unwanted breast milk?

Several factors will affect how long it takes for your milk to dry up, including your baby’s age and how much milk your body is making.

1. 7 ways to dry your breast milk supply quickly.
2. Cold turkey.
3. Herbs.
4. Cabbage.
5. Birth control.
6. Sudafed.
7. Vitamin B.
8. Other drugs.

What can I do with unwanted breast milk?

Note: If your stash isn’t expired like mine, please consider donating any and all leftover milk to the HMBANA, which is a network of non-profit milk banks that focus on serving “vulnerable preterm and otherwise fragile infants who need human milk as medicine.”

What can breast milk be used for in adults?

You can also use breast milk like an antibiotic ointment on superficial scrapes—although you should never apply it to open wounds or deep cuts. Breast milk can also reduce itchiness from bug bites or poison ivy. Some people even gargle with breast milk to help manage sore throat pain!

Can you do anything with expired milk?

Spoiled milk can replace buttermilk or sour cream in baked goods. It can also be used to tenderize meats or added to soups, casseroles, or salad dressings. You can likewise use it in certain cosmetic applications to soften your skin.

What can I do with expired breastmilk?

If the milk is expired, milk baths, soaps, salves, face creams, etc. are all great ways to not waste that liquid gold!

What can I do with leftover breast milk that my baby doesn’t drink?

There isn’t any conclusive evidence on whether or not this is safe, but some experts (and lots of moms) say it’s okay to stick an unfinished bottle back in the fridge to reheat and reuse at the next feeding. (If baby doesn’t drink it all at the next feeding, toss it.)

What should be done with any leftover breast milk?

Note: If your stash isn’t expired like mine, please consider donating any and all leftover milk to the HMBANA, which is a network of non-profit milk banks that focus on serving “vulnerable preterm and otherwise fragile infants who need human milk as medicine.”

Is breast milk good for plants?

The proteins from breast milk help make the soil nitrogen-rich, making it a great food for your garden. Calcium from breast milk can also serve as an added nutrient boost for your soil too. To make fertilizer from leftover breast milk, follow the 1:1:4 ratio.

Can I put breastmilk in plants?

If you have a green thumb and like growing plants and veggies, you can try making fertilizer with your leftover breast milk. The proteins from breast milk help make the soil nitrogen-rich, making it a great food for your garden. Calcium from breast milk can also serve as an added nutrient boost for your soil too.

What can I do with breast milk that was left out?

It’s best to chill, refrigerate, or freeze breast milk immediately after it’s expressed. If expressed milk is left out unrefrigerated, but it’s in a clean, covered container, it can sit at room temperature for between four and six hours. Milk that has been left out for longer should be thrown away.