How to use Breastmilk that’s gone “bad”
If you’re anything like me, you’re always forgetting what the guidelines for breastmilk storage are. I’m constantly googling recommendations, and scrolling through websites, graphics, etc. These guidelines are put in place by the CDC. According to the CDC, breastmilk can be left at room temperature, stored in the refrigerator, and kept in the freezer. Here’s the recommended length of keeping breastmilk safe to consume. *Pro tip- screenshot this graphic and add it to your favorites so you can reference it quickly ; )
Sometimes stuff happens and milk gets left out too long or baby decides not to finish the whole bottle. Babies go through so many growth spurts they regularly are upping milk intake, then dropping back down, back and forth- making it SO challenging to guesstimate the amount they’ll actually take. Rather than wasting that liquid gold, here are a few ways to salvage the breastmilk. *Please keep in mind this is not a substitute or recommendation in place of medical advice!
Breastmilk Bath
Breastmilk baths are great for the skin! Prepare the bath as normal and dump just enough milk into the tub to make the water cloudy. Enjoy!
Breastmilk Soap
Breastmilk soap can assist with skin irritations such as eczema and diaper rash.
What’s needed~
5oz breastmilk
Silicone mold of choice
Melt & pour soap base (1lb)
Microwavable bowl or double broiler
Rubber spatula
*Essential Oils if desired (1-3 drops)
Directions~ Let the milk come to room temperature. Chop soap base down so it melts quicker. (Stir regularly as bubbles/foam are really difficult to remove from the finished product) Once melted, add milk. Stir until mixed thoroughly. Pour melted mixture into molds and leave on a flat surface. Placing in the refrigerator tends to help. After breastmilk soap is cool, remove from the molds and allow to air out for a few days back in the refrigerator.
Breastmilk Lotion
Breastmilk lotion has similar helpful properties as the soap, however this is the perfect addition to a diaper bag!
What’s needed~
3oz breastmilk
3oz coconut oil or grapeseed oil
1 tbsp beeswax
3-5 drops Vitamin E
*Essential oils if desired (1-3 drops)
Place oil and beeswax in a microwavable bowl and heat slowly until the beeswax is melted. Add vitamin E. Slowly pour breastmilk into the mixture, whisking quickly throughout the pour. Let sit to cool. (Be sure to keep in a cool dry location, beeswax will discolor if not kept in a cool dark area)
Breastmilk Jewelry
A long-term keepsake to remind you of your breastmilk journey is breastmilk jewelry. (And honestly- Mama you EARNED this!) Breastfeeding is no joke! It takes so much time, energy, and ambition. These use very little milk and can be kept for a long time. I highly recommend a reputable business where they value high-end jewelry so staining doesn't come off on your skin and the milk “jewel” is sealed properly. The business I recommend is Mamas Liquid Love. They offer individual rings, stacking rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets. My affiliate code is “SunAndStars”, use this code for 5% off your jewelry of choice! Some of my favorite pieces are shown below!
