Nature Calls: Don't pour milk down the sink

How to dispose of old milk: Top tips

We know that disposing of old milk can be a bit of a challenge. Pouring it down the kitchen sink might seem like the easiest option, but it can cause serious problems for your drains and the environment. The fats in milk can lead to blockages in your pipes, which can be costly to fix and harmful to our waterways. As part of our Nature Calls campaign, we’re here to provide you with some friendly and helpful tips on how to dispose of old milk safely and responsibly.

Why you shouldn’t pour milk down the sink

Pouring milk down the sink is a big no-no. The fats and proteins in milk can solidify and stick to the walls of your pipes, leading to blockages. These blockages can cause your drains to back up, resulting in unpleasant smells and potentially expensive plumbing repairs. Moreover, when milk enters the sewage system, it can deplete oxygen levels in the water, harming aquatic life.

Safe and easy ways to dispose of old milk

1. Compost it: If you have a compost bin, you can add small amounts of old milk to it. Milk is biodegradable and can provide valuable nutrients to your compost. Just be sure to mix it well with other compost materials to avoid any unpleasant smells.
2. Use it in the garden: Diluted milk can be used as a natural fertiliser for your garden. Mix one part milk with four parts water and pour it around the base of your plants. The nutrients in the milk can help your plants grow strong and healthy.
3. Bin it: If composting or using it in the garden isn’t an option, you can dispose of old milk with your regular household waste. Pour the milk into a sealable container, such as an old milk carton or a plastic bottle, and place it in the bin. This method prevents the milk from leaking and causing a mess.
4. Freeze for later use: If the milk is only slightly off, you can freeze it for later use in cooking or baking. Frozen milk can be used in recipes where the taste won’t be affected, such as pancakes, muffins, or sauces.
5. Animal feed: If you have pets or know someone with farm animals, old milk can be a nutritious addition to their diet. Just make sure it’s not too spoiled and check with a vet if you’re unsure.