Life on a dairy farm starts early—really early. By the time most people are still snoozing, we’re already in the barn getting ready for one of the most important tasks of the day: the morning milking. On our 70-cow dairy farm, this routine is as essential as the sunrise, and while it’s hard work, it’s also something we’ve grown to love.
So, how long does morning milking actually take? On average, from the time we walk into the barn to the last cow being milked and the parlor cleaned, the process takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. But there’s more to it than just attaching machines and collecting milk. Let’s walk you through the full routine.
Our day begins around 4:30 AM. We start by bringing the cows from their resting area into the milking parlor. This alone can take 15–20 minutes, depending on the mood of the herd. Some cows are eager and cooperative—others take their sweet time.
We use a double-10 herringbone milking parlor, which means we can milk 20 cows at a time—10 on each side. That allows us to rotate the herd in groups, usually finishing the entire 70 in about three or four rounds. Milking each group takes roughly 10–15 minutes, plus a few minutes to bring in the next set.
Before we start milking, each cow’s udder must be cleaned and disinfected. We check for any signs of mastitis or injury and make sure each cow is healthy and comfortable. This step is crucial for maintaining milk quality and animal welfare.
After attaching the milking machines, we monitor the process closely. Some cows finish faster than others, and we remove the units as soon as they’re done to avoid discomfort. When milking is done, we apply post-dip to each cow’s teats to protect against infection.
By 7:00 AM, the last cows are usually finishing up, and we start the cleaning process. All the milking equipment and pipelines must be washed and sanitized to meet hygiene standards. That takes another 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the day.
While the milking itself is relatively consistent, weather, cow behavior, and equipment issues can make the process longer. For example, a stubborn cow or a minor mechanical hiccup can throw off the whole rhythm.
But there’s a rhythm to it now. Everyone on the farm knows their role, and teamwork is what keeps the process smooth. Some people might find it repetitive, but for us, there’s something deeply satisfying about starting the day with this routine. The sound of the machines humming, the cows calmly chewing their cud, and the fresh morning air all combine into something almost peaceful.
So next time you pour a glass of milk or add cream to your coffee, think of the farmers who’ve already been up for hours, caring for their herd. On our farm, that daily commitment to quality and care starts every morning—well before the sun comes up.
