We all know that breast milk is packed full of nutrients, perfect for your growing baby. However, did you know it has so many other potential uses other than feeding your little one?
There are a lot of ways you can use leftover breast milk and below you’ll discover some of the best. So, if you want to make the most out of the excess milk you’re producing, you may want to consider some of the ideas below.
Donate It
One of the best things you can do with excess breast milk, is donate it. A lot of new moms have trouble expressing enough breast milk. It can be really frustrating and upsetting for them not to be able to do something that’s branded as the most natural thing in the world. So, what better way to use your excess milk than by giving it to those who really need it?
You can donate at your local hospital, just be sure to contact them to find out more about the donation process and whether there is a need for it at your local hospital.
Make Breast Milk Ice Pops
Breast milk ice pops are a genius idea. Not only do they provide a refreshing snack for your little one, but they can also really help to soothe the pain of teething. All you need to do is pour your excess milk into ice pop molds and then place them into the freezer.
When baby is teething, or if they’re uncomfortably warm, give them a breast milk ice pop. You’ll be surprised just how much they enjoy it, and how effective it is at soothing the symptoms of teething.
Use It As A Pimple Buster
Did you know the antibodies in your breast milk can be an effective pimple buster? Admittedly, not all parents find this tip effective, but others swear by applying their breast milk to baby’s face to clear up pimples.
Experts claim it is the lauric acid contained within the milk, which can work to fight off pimples. All you need to do is apply it to the affected areas, then let it air dry. Or, you could use it as a face wash instead, using the milk to wash your face and then wiping it off with a clean towel.
Just be aware there is a possibility the milk could clog up baby’s pores. This would ultimately make the pimples worse. So, if you find it isn’t getting better, stop using the breast milk and seek medical advice instead.
Treat Bug Bites
Breast milk has wonderful soothing properties. This makes it a very good natural remedy for bug bites. You can use it in two different ways for this purpose. Firstly, you can mix the breast milk with water until it forms a cloudy appearance. Then, apply it onto the bite and leave to air dry. Or, you could use breast milk ice cubes to rub over the bite. The latter would be the most convenient option as it’s easier to just grab an ice cube out of the freezer, than it is to mix up a breast milk solution.
Turn It Into Soap
One of the leading trends which many celebrities actually follow, is to turn their breast milk into soap. As we’ve already mentioned, breast milk does contain antibacterial and soothing properties, making it ideal for numerous skin complaints.
This idea does take a little more effort than the others. However, the soap will last for a while and it’s supposedly really good for the skin, so you could also give them as gifts to your friends. You’ll find lots of breast milk soap recipes online so find one which best fits your preferences.
Treat Sore Nipples
There’s no getting away from it, breastfeeding can hurt! If you find your nipples are frequently sore and cracked, you can use your breast milk to soothe them. After feeding, squeeze a little milk and gently rub it over your nipples. Then, leave it to air dry.
This isn’t guaranteed to work, but many moms do find it soothing. If you try it and it doesn’t work, you can always seek advice from your doctor or pediatrician as they’ll be able to offer tips or prescribe something which may help if your nipples are too sore.
Treating Diaper Rash
As leftover breast milk can be useful at treating numerous skin issues, it’s no surprise to find it can help with diaper rash too. Again, it isn’t guaranteed that it will work, but many moms do use this method.
All you need to do is apply the milk to the rash and leave it to air dry. This should instantly soothe the rash, though it may take a day or two for it to start disappearing. If it doesn’t and the problem appears to be getting worse, stop using the breast milk and opt for a more traditional treatment. It is possible the breast milk could make the problem worse if the diaper rash is caused by excess yeast.
Add It To Solids During The Weaning Process
When you’re weaning your little one onto solids, you can add breast milk instead of water. It’s common to mash up foods with water during weaning, but using breast milk instead provides a much more familiar texture. It also makes it more likely your baby will accept the solids if they are familiar with the taste and texture.
Conclusion
As you can see, there’s so many different ways you can use excess breast milk. It really is great for so many different things, especially as a soothing solution for skin issues. So, if you find you’re producing too much milk, why not give any of the ideas above a go? Or, tell us how you used your excess breast milk in the comments below.
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