How to Get Cow Milk

Nothing is more delicious and healthy in the morning with a homemade breakfast than milk fresh from the cow. Contrary to what most people think, the majority of small dairy farmers, with 15 cows or fewer, still milk their cows by hand because a milking machine is not worth the large initial cost and the cost of maintaining and running. Milking a cow by hand only needs a few items, a little patience and a clean pail for the milk.

Things You'll Need

  • Warm water
  • Antibiotic soap
  • Boiling water or a sterilizer
  • Comfortable stool the right height to reach the cows teats
  • Disposable towels
  • Strips of cloth
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use an antibiotic soap and wash your hands, the bucket you are using to collect the milk, the final receptacle and the cows teat. Use boiling water on the bucket and final pail or use a sterilizer.

    • 2

      Wash and dry the udders using the disposables towels. Bind the cow's hind legs together with a strip of cloth. Do not make it too tight but do not leave it too loose. You just do not want her kicking when you go to milk her.

    • 3

      Set the milking stool to the right of the cow. Place the receiving pail between your legs and grip it well with your legs. Try to get as much of the bucket as possible under the cow and still be able to grip it with your legs.

    • 4

      Hold one of the front teats with your dominant hand and press your thumb gently on the udder. Lock your first finger around the top of the teat. Use the rest of your fingers to hold the teat. Press them on to the teat one finger at a time. This makes the milk flow.

    • 5

      Open the thumb and first finger and the milk will come down from the udder into the teat. Repeat from Step 4 again. When the teat and udder are empty, move to the other front teat. Then milk the back teats.

    • 6

      Pour the milk not being used immediately from the receiving receptacle into the final receptacle. Refrigerate the milk immediately.

    • 7

      Wash and sterilize any equipment used and store them face down. You will sterilize them again before they are used. Wash your hands with the antibiotic soap