Fresh milk is a highly nutritious beverage that offers many health benefits, especially for supporting children’s growth and height development. Because of its nutritional value and convenience, many families tend to buy fresh milk in large quantities for daily use. However, milk has a relatively short shelf life. When it is not consumed in time, many people simply pour expired milk down the drain, which is extremely wasteful.

Instead of throwing away expired fresh milk, you can actually reuse it in many practical ways around the house. As long as the milk has not developed mold or an unusually strong odor, it can still be repurposed safely for non-drinking purposes.

Watering Plants

Fresh milk contains calcium and other nutrients that can support plant growth. You can reuse expired milk as a natural fertilizer for plants. However, do not pour milk directly onto the soil. Instead, dilute it with clean water at a 1:1 ratio. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray it around the base of the plant so the roots can absorb the nutrients more effectively. You may also lightly spray the solution onto plant leaves.

It is important to use expired milk for plants only occasionally. Overuse can lead to bacterial growth in the soil, which may harm the plant. Additionally, the fat content in milk can break down over time and cause unpleasant odors. When used properly, however, expired milk can be a surprisingly effective organic fertilizer.

Skincare Uses

Expired milk may no longer be safe to drink, but it can still be used externally for skincare. If the milk has not changed color, does not smell bad, and shows no signs of mold, it can be applied to the skin. The natural fats in milk help moisturize and soften the skin.

If the milk has slightly fermented, the lactic acid it contains can gently exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving the skin smoother and more hydrated. This makes expired milk a useful ingredient for homemade skincare treatments.

You can combine fresh or expired milk with other natural ingredients to create simple face masks. It is best to use unsweetened, low-fat milk to reduce the risk of clogged pores. Apply the homemade mask to your skin, leave it on for about 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.

• Milk mixed with oatmeal helps cleanse the skin, exfoliate dead cells, and improve smoothness.

• Milk combined with avocado provides deep hydration and softens dry skin.

• Milk mixed with honey offers antibacterial properties, brightens the complexion, and locks in moisture.

Softening Leather Shoes

Expired milk can also be used to restore leather shoes. First, use a brush to remove dust and dirt from the shoe surface. Then, soak a soft cloth in fermented expired milk and gently rub it evenly over the leather. Let it dry naturally, then wipe the shoes again with a clean cloth. This method helps clean the leather while restoring its shine and softness, making the shoes look almost new.

Cleaning Household Items

Metal items such as spoons, forks, knives, scissors, or silverware often become dull after prolonged exposure to air. To restore their shine, soak them in expired milk mixed with a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice. After soaking, gently scrub with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. This simple method helps remove oxidation and leaves the items brighter and cleaner.

Additionally, you can use a soft cloth soaked in fresh or expired milk to wipe wooden or marble surfaces. Milk helps lift stains from furniture and household items, leaving surfaces clean, smooth, and naturally glossy.