Steps to Optimize Milking Efficiency and Milk Quality
Figure 1.Provide a clean, safe, and stress- free environment for the cows entering the parlor. *Process a full line of cows at a time. Credit: UF/IFASFigure 2.Wear gloves and wash/change them regularly during milking. Avoid milk contact on gloves; if that occurs, change them. Credit: UF/IFAS
Pre-Dipping
Figure 3.Dip all four teats entirely with pre-dipping solution. Allow at least 30 seconds of contact time. Credit: UF/IFAS
Forestripping
Figure 4.Strip each teat 2 to 3 times. Check for milk abnormalities such as flakes, clots, or watery appearance. Use a single-use towel to wipe each teat, using a downward twisting motion to dry and remove dirt and pre-dip solution. Credit: UF/IFAS
Drying
Figure 5.Strip each teat 2 to 3 times. Check for milk abnormalities such as flakes, clots, or watery appearance. Use a single-use towel to wipe each teat, using a downward twisting motion to dry and remove dirt and pre-dip solution. Credit: UF/IFAS
Unit Attachment
Figure 6.Attach the unit 1 to 2 minutes after first touching the udder. Adjust the unit properly so that it hangs squarely beneath the udder. *Re-attach units that fall off as soon as possible so cows are completely milked! Credit: UF/IFAS
Unit Removal
Figure 7.Automatic take-offs release the unit when milking is finished. When re- moving manually, shut the vacuum off before removing unit to avoid injuries. *Do not overmilk! Credit: UF/IFAS
Post-Dipping
Figure 8.Dip each whole teat with post-dipping solution immediately after detaching the milking unit. Credit: UF/IFAS
Udder Preparation and Unit Attachment Timeline (in seconds)
Figure 9.undefined Credit: UF/IFAS
Other Considerations
Minimize time in the holding area (less than 1 hour).• Check vacuum gauge to ensure proper vacuum level before milking.
Keep milking machines clean and free of manure! Hose machines as needed between sides, never when hanging on a cow.
Clean/disinfect milking equipment, buckets, towels, and teat dip cups immedi- ately after every milking.
Warn supervisor about damaged unit liners and change them at recommended intervals.
BE CONSISTENT!
ALL OPERATORS RESPONSIBLE FOR MILKING SHOULD ALWAYS FOLLOW A CONSISTENT ROUTINE AND GO THROUGH THE RECOMMENDED STEPS IN THE PROPER ORDER!
This document is AN376, one of a series of the Department of Animal Sciences, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date November 2021. Visit the EDIS website at https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu for the currently supported version of this publication.
