Expired fresh milk can actually become a “treasure” rather than something to throw away — if it's still safe to use. According to Tạp Chí Đời Sống, there are at least two surprising, practical uses for expired milk around the house and in the garden. (TapChíĐờiSống) (turn0view0)

Below is a richer version with added reasoning, caution, and parallel examples from credible sources.

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What the Original Article Says

The article proposes two main uses:

1. Cleaning and Polishing Furniture & Leather

   • Use a soft cloth, dip it in expired milk, and gently rub the surface of leather items (shoes, bags, clothes) or wooden furniture.

   • The proteins and fats in the milk help dissolve dust, nourish the surface, and restore shine.

   • After the application, wipe with a clean, dry cloth.

   • For wooden furniture or indoor plants’ leaves, the same diluted approach may help remove dust while giving a sheen.

2. Using Expired Milk as a Fertilizer / Nutrient Boost for Plants

   • Expired milk still contains calcium, proteins, and minerals, which plants can absorb.

   • Because fermented milk is slightly acidic, it can help lower soil pH in alkaline soils, improving nutrient uptake in acid-loving plants.

   • The article suggests diluting the milk with water (ratios between 1:1 to 1:10) and applying it at the base of plants.

   • It also claims that milk may help protect plants against some fungal diseases (e.g. powdery mildew), thanks to certain proteins and lactic acid in the milk.

   • The caution is to avoid overuse, not to pour undiluted milk, and not to apply it to leaves or flowers (to avoid attracting pests or encouraging mold).

   • It hints that some plants like roses, azaleas, and blueberries (which prefer more acidic soils) may benefit most.

The article also gives practical warnings: make sure the expired milk doesn’t smell strongly sour or show mold; always dilute before applying to plants; first test on a small hidden area; and avoid overuse or harmful effects. (TapChíĐờiSống) (turn0view0)

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What Scientific & Gardening Sources Say

The idea of using expired milk (or dairy byproducts) in cleaning or gardening is not new, though evidence is mixed. Here’s what research and expert sources indicate:

Milk for Polishing / Cleaning Surfaces

• Some traditional cleaning guides suggest that diluted milk can act as a mild cleaner for leather items—thanks to its fat content—but recommend caution, as leftover sugars or protein may attract insects or spoil further.

• For wood furniture, many professionals prefer dedicated wood oils, waxes, or commercial polish rather than food-based substances, because wood often is sealed and may not absorb milk well.

Milk as Plant Nourishment & Disease Control

• Calcium & nutrients: Dairy contains calcium and trace minerals beneficial to soil and plants. Some gardeners occasionally use “milk sprays” to supply calcium and reduce blossom end rot in tomatoes.

• Antifungal effects: A 1:10 milk-water spray has been studied in small trials for controlling fungal diseases (like powdery mildew) on plants such as grapes or zucchini. Some results showed moderate reduction in fungal spread. (Journal of Plant Disease)

• Acidifying effect: Fermented dairy can slightly reduce soil pH, useful for alkaline soils, but the effect is mild and short-lived.

• Risks: If overused, milk can lead to nitrogen overload, attract pests (flies, ants), or cause fungal growth in soil. Soil microbes may break down protein, producing ammonia if not well aerated.

From the Experts

• Master gardeners caution that using raw or expired dairy requires care—always dilute, apply in moderation, and avoid repeated use in the same spot.

• Agricultural extension services often discourage applying high-protein substances directly to leaves to avoid burning or microbial growth.

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Practical Tips & All-Important Warnings

To safely try these home-hack uses of expired milk:

• Check the condition first: If the milk smells extremely sour, chunky, or shows mold, do not use it in any way.

• Always dilute: Use water to reduce concentration. Dilution helps avoid nutrient overload or burning roots.

• Spot test: Test on a small hidden area (on leather or on a part of the plant) before applying broadly.

• Use promptly: Once past its prime, milk degrades further; it’s best used quickly after confirming it’s still usable.

• Avoid application on leaves or flowers: Apply at the base of plants to reduce fungal or insect risks.

• Limit frequency: Occasional use (a few times per growing season) is safer than constant use.

• Consider specialized products: For heavy polishing or plant disease control, modern waxes, fungicides, or fertilizers may be more reliable and safer.