What to Do with Excess Breast Milk?

Having excess breast milk is a beautiful gift, but figuring out what to do with it can feel like a balancing act. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with ideas to make sure your extra milk finds the perfect purpose.

1. Donate Your Extra Milk: Share the Love!

If your baby’s needs are met and your freezer is bursting, consider becoming a milk donor. Donated milk can save the lives of medically fragile babies, especially preemies. Nonprofit milk banks like the UC Health Milk Bank ensure that your milk gets to the babies who need it most.

• How to Donate: The process is simple: a health screening, a blood test, and a quick chat with the milk bank.
• Feel Good Bonus: Your generosity helps protect tiny tummies. When a parent's breastmilk is not available or sufficient, pasteurized donor human milk is the next best thing to prevent NEC and improve the survival of babies in need.

2. Create a Milk Stash for Your Baby

Stocking up for the future is always a great idea. Going back to work? Planning a date night? Your stash has your back. Use breast milk storage bags to save space and label everything with the date and time for easy tracking.

3. Make Breast Milk Popsicles

Breast milk popsicles are the ultimate multitasker: they soothe teething gums, entertain your little one, and reduce waste. Simply pour breast milk into a baby-safe popsicle mold, freeze, and serve for a fun (and healthy!) treat.

4. Milk Baths for Baby (and Maybe You!)

Your milk is full of skin-loving nutrients. A few ounces in the bath can soothe diaper rash, eczema, or dry skin. Bonus: It’s a luxurious treat for you, too!

5. Rotate and Use Older Milk First

If you’re stockpiling milk, check those dates! Rotate your stash to use the oldest milk first. Milk stored in a deep freezer can last up to 12 months, but fresh is always best.

Remember: No amount of milk is “too small” to donate or use. Every drop is a labor of love—and if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask a lactation consultant or your local milk bank.

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