The humble ice cube tray has evolved far beyond its traditional purpose. While primarily designed for freezing water into ice cubes, creative individuals have discovered inventive uses that extend its functionality. From crafting unique desserts to organizing small items, the versatility of the ice cube tray opens doors for innovative solutions in everyday life. This article explores various unconventional uses for ice cube trays, inspiring readers to rethink this common kitchen accessory.
Prepare to be surprised by the many ways you can repurpose this simple tool in your home!
Table of Contents
10 Best Ice Cube Tray Options for Perfectly Cubed Ice
Are you ready to elevate your beverages and impress your guests? The right ice cube tray can make all the difference in achieving perfectly chilled drinks. Our review of the 10 best ice cube tray options showcases versatile designs that create beautifully shaped, slow-melting ice cubes, enhancing everything from cocktails to everyday hydration. Whether you prefer silicone ease, classic plastic, or novelty shapes, these trays are crafted for convenience and style. Say goodbye to watered-down drinks, and discover how these essential kitchen tools can transform your refreshment game!
Dive into our top picks!
1. DOQAUS Stackable Ice Cube Trays
| Material Quality |
BPA-free |
|---|---|
| Ice Removal Ease |
Wide bottom |
| Dishwasher Safe |
Yes |
| Lid Design |
Two lifters |
| Customer Service |
24hrs response |
| Stackable Design |
Yes |
Overview:
The DOQAUS Ice Cube Tray with Lid and Bin is an innovative and practical solution for making ice at home. This 4-pack of silicone and plastic trays is designed to withstand long-term low-temperature storage, ensuring durability and safety with BPA-free and odor-free materials. Each tray features a wider design and is made with TPE material for easy ice removal. With removable lids that prevent spills and absorb odors, these trays stack neatly in your freezer, offering a customizable way to create ice cubes infused with your favorite flavors. Ideal for cocktails, soups, and more, the DOQAUS ice cube trays are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
Pros:
– Strong and durable construction made from premium silicone and PP materials.
– Easy ice removal due to the wider design and soft silicone material, eliminating the need for awkward bending or twisting.
– Customizable ice cubes with the ability to fill trays with various liquids, including fruit juices and cocktails.
– Convenient removable lids featuring lid lifters to prevent spills and freezing excess water.
– Stackable design saves freezer space and keeps ice cubes fresh without absorbing freezer odors.
– Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning after use.
– Excellent customer service with prompt responses to inquiries.
Cons:
– While the trays are designed to be durable, some users may find the silicone material slightly less rigid than traditional plastic trays, which could require a little extra care during use.
– The overall size of the trays may be slightly larger than typical ice cube trays, which could pose storage challenges in smaller freezers.
2. Silicone Ice Cube Trays
| Material |
BPA Free |
|---|---|
| Capacity |
28 ice cubes |
| Flexibility |
Easy-Release |
| Maintenance |
Dishwasher Safe |
| Design Feature |
Removable Lids |
| Usage |
Home/Bar |
Overview:
The Ice Cube Trays, Silicone Easy-Release and Flexible 14-Ice Trays with Spill-Resistant Removable Lid, are a must-have in every kitchen and bar. Made from food-grade silicone and PP materials, these trays are fully BPA-free, ensuring safe and durable usage for all your ice-making needs. With the capability to create ice cubes for cocktails, homemade beverages, or snacks, these trays are versatile and easy to clean. The innovative design features a removable lid that helps stack the trays neatly in the freezer, while the TPE material allows for effortless ice cube release without the hassle of bending or twisting. The set comes with 2 trays, producing 28 ice cubes total, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.
Pros:
– Made from high-quality, food-grade BPA-free materials ensuring safety and durability.
– Versatile for creating different types of ice cubes suitable for bars or home beverages.
– Convenient removable lids maintain cleanliness and allow for organized stacking in the freezer.
– TPE material enables easy release of ice cubes without awkward bending or twisting.
– Dishwasher safe and easy to clean, promoting convenient maintenance.
Cons:
– Initial boiling for sanitation purposes may be seen as an extra step for some users.
– Depending on freezer space, stacking larger quantities might require careful organization.
3. Silicone Ice Cube Mold
Overview:
The Ice Cube Mold for Stanley Cup is a top-of-the-line silicone ice cube tray designed specifically for 30-40 oz tumblers. This three-piece set features a user-friendly design that allows for easy filling and removal of ice, while its safe food-grade silicone material ensures that your ice will be cost-effective, durable, and long-lasting. The unique hollow cylinder shape helps to keep your beverages colder for longer, minimizing dilution and preserving the true flavors of your favorite drinks. With a sealed removable lid, you can create and store ice without worrying about contamination or spills, making it an ideal companion for cocktails, whiskey, coffee, and more.
Pros:
– Made from safe, BPA-free silicone that is odorless and non-toxic.
– Can create three large hollow cylinder ice cubes that melt slowly, keeping drinks cold without dilution.
– Versatile design compatible with various drink types including cocktails, whiskey, and juices.
– Sealed lid keeps ice clean and prevents spills in the freezer.
– Easy to clean and machine washable for added convenience.
Cons:
– While the silicone allows for easy release, it may take some practice to perfect the filling process without spilling.
– The size of the ice cubes might not fit all standard glassware, so it’s primarily designed for larger cups and tumblers.
4. Silicone Ice Cube Trays
| Material |
Silicone & PP |
|---|---|
| Cube Capacity |
42 Cubes |
| Freezing Speed |
Quick Freeze |
| Ease of Use |
Easy Release |
| Maintenance |
Dishwasher Safe |
| BPA-Free |
Yes |
Overview:
The Ice Cube Trays for Freezer – 3 Pack is the perfect solution for those looking to elevate their beverage experience. Designed with convenience in mind, these silicone ice trays come with spill-resistant lids, making them easy to use and clean. Each tray produces 14 cubes, providing a total of 42 ice cubes per set. The rectangular shape is space-saving while the clear lids keep your ice fresh and odor-free. Ideal for making ice for cocktails, drinks, and even iced coffee, these reusable and stackable trays are made from BPA-free materials, ensuring safety and quality.
Pros:
– Space-Saving Design: The rectangular shape allows for efficient use of freezer space, making these trays easy to store without taking up much room.
– Quick Freeze and High-Quality Ice: Achieves fast freezing, ensuring you get clear, consistent ice cubes quickly.
– Easy to Remove: The soft silicone bottom makes removing ice cubes effortless”just twist or press to release easily.
– Hygienic and Tidy: The included clear lids prevent odors and promote a clean, organized freezer.
– Versatile Use: Not only ideal for ice, but can also be used as food molds for creative shaping.
Cons:
– Potential Size Limitation: While the cubes are perfect for many drinks, some users may find the size smaller than traditional ice cube trays. This can be a minor adjustment for those used to larger ice cubes.
– Initial Learning Curve: Some users might take a little time to get familiar with removing the ice cubes without any breakage, although the silicone material is forgiving.
5. WIBIMEN Round Ice Cube Tray
| Easy to Release |
Durable plastic |
|---|---|
| Compact Design |
Space-saving |
| Material Quality |
Food-grade |
| Stylish Ice Balls |
Aesthetic appeal |
| Multiple Uses |
Cocktails & More |
| Set Includes |
Tray & Bin |
Overview:
The WIBIMEN Ice Cube Tray with Lid and Bin offers a stylish and efficient solution for creating round ice cubes for all your beverage needs. Made from durable, food-grade plastic, these trays make it easy to release perfectly shaped ice balls with just a gentle twist. Their compact design allows for easy stacking, making them ideal even for small personal fridges. Designed for versatility, these trays can be used for cocktails, coffee, or flavored ice infusions, giving your drinks an attractive twist while keeping them refreshingly cold.
Pros:
1. Easy Release: The durable plastic design allows for effortless removal of ice cubes without any hassle.
2. Compact Design: Perfect for small spaces, these trays can be stacked easily in any freezer, maximizing storage efficiency.
3. High-Quality Material: Made from food-grade materials, ensuring safety and longevity for repeated use.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: Creates beautifully shaped ice spheres that enhance the presentation of your drinks, making them perfect for entertaining guests.
5. Versatile Usage: Can be utilized for various beverages, including cocktails, flavored ice, or even in morning coffee, adding a delightful twist to your drinks.
Cons:
1. Limited Capacity: Each tray makes a smaller number of ice cubes compared to traditional trays, which may require multiple fills for larger gatherings.
2. Initial Learning Curve: Some may need a short adjustment period to maximize the gentle twist technique for perfect ice cube release, but this is easily overcome with a few uses.
6. Optish Ice Cube Trays
| Easy to Use |
Effortless Water Filling |
|---|---|
| Material Quality |
Food Grade PP |
| Space-Saving Design |
Stackable |
| Multi-Purpose |
Versatile Uses |
| Easy Release |
Flexible Molds |
| Airtight Seal |
Odor Prevention |
Overview:
The Optish 3 Pack Ice Trays are designed to simplify the ice-making process while maximizing convenience and versatility. Each pack contains 99 round ice cubes, made from high-quality food-grade PP material that is both durable and easy to clean. With a unique design that allows for quick and easy ice cube release, these trays feature a lid to prevent spillage and odors, ensuring fresh ice every time. Perfect for chilling drinks at home, parties, or bars, you can even get creative by using them for making flavored ice with fruits, yogurt, or chocolate!
Pros:
– Easy to Use: The innovative design with a drain hole allows excess water to flow out, simplifying the filling process.
– Space-Saving: Stackable trays and an airtight lid help keep your freezer organized while preventing odors.
– Multi-Purpose: These trays are not just for ice; you can make homemade ice cubes with fruit or use them for baby food and cocktails.
– Family Safe: Made from food-grade materials, this product ensures the safety of your family’s health without compromising on quality.
– Flexibility: The robust yet flexible material allows for easy removal of the well-formed ice balls without breakage.
Cons:
– Time-Consuming Freeze: While the trays are easy to use, they require a freezing time of 4-8 hours, which may be longer than some may prefer for quick chilling needs.
– Limited Cubes at Once: The design of 33 ice balls per tray means users may need to refill multiple trays for larger gatherings, which could take up extra freezer space temporarily.
7. 2-in-1 Ice Cube Bottle
| Key Feature |
Value |
|---|---|
| 2-in-1 Functionality |
Ice & Hydration |
| Ice Release Method |
One-Touch |
| Hygienic Design |
Touch-Free |
| Leakproof Design |
Airtight Seal |
| Compact Size |
Travel-Ready |
| Daily Ice Capacity |
54 Cubes |
Overview:
The Ice Cube Bottle is a revolutionary solution for those who love to stay hydrated while enjoying ice-cold beverages. This versatile 2-in-1 device functions as both a water bottle and an ice cube maker, allowing you to freeze up to 18 ice cubes in just 8 hours. With its convenient one-touch ice release, you can effortlessly drop cubes into your drinks without the hassle of transferring ice. The hygienic design ensures that you never touch the ice directly, making it perfect for cocktails, iced coffee, or refreshments for kids. Designed to be leakproof and odor-resistant, the Ice Cube Bottle is easy to clean and is compact enough to take anywhere”from the gym to backyard BBQs.
Pros:
– Innovative 2-in-1 design saves space and enhances convenience.
– One-touch ice release feature eliminates the struggle with stuck cubes.
– Hygienic touch-free design ensures clean ice without direct contact.
– Leakproof construction prevents spills and keeps contents fresh.
– Dishwasher-safe components for easy cleaning and maintenance.
– Compact and travel-ready, fitting in various spaces for on-the-go use.
Cons:
– The ice production may take up to 8 hours, which might require planning ahead for last-minute gatherings.
– Slightly larger in profile than standard water bottles, which may not fit all cup holders seamlessly.
8. Silicone Ice Cube Trays
| Easy Release |
Effortless |
|---|---|
| Material Safety |
BPA-free |
| Capacity |
56 Cubes |
| Stackable Design |
Space-saving |
| Temperature Resistance |
Low-temperature |
| Versatile Use |
Home & Bar |
Overview:
The Ice Cube Tray 4 Pack by Jrisbo is a set of flexible silicone ice cube trays designed for hassle-free ice making. Each tray holds 14 cubes, totaling 56 cubes across the pack, and features an easy-release design thanks to its innovative TPE material and wider bottom. These trays come with removable lids, allowing for stacking in your freezer while preventing unwanted odors from affecting your ice. Made from food-grade silicone and PP material, they are BPA-free and ideal for crafting ice cubes for cocktails, beverages, or even baby food. This user-friendly design makes preparing ice a breeze, ensuring you have plenty on hand for any occasion.
Pros:
– Effortless Release: The silicone and wider design make ice removal simple, eliminating the need for bending or twisting.
– Space-Saving Design: Stackable with removable lids to save space in the freezer and keep ice cubes smelling fresh.
– Versatile Use: Ideal for making ice cubes for drinks and can also be used for baby food, catering to various needs.
– Durable Material: Made of food-grade silicone and PP, ensuring longevity and safety for all your ice-making needs.
Cons:
– Flexibility May Vary: While the flexible design is advantageous, some users may find that it requires a bit of care when filling to avoid spills if not held firmly.
– Initial Scent: New trays may have a slight silicone smell at first, which tends to dissipate after a few uses or washes.
9. OXO Ice Cube Tray 2-Pack
| Unique Lid Functionality |
Sliding Release |
|---|---|
| Stackability |
Sturdy Design |
| Odor Prevention |
Cover Included |
| Ice Cube Shape |
Rounded Design |
| Cleaning Method |
Dishwasher Safe |
| Material Safety |
BPA Free |
Overview:
The OXO Good Grips Ice Cube Tray – 2 Pack is a versatile and user-friendly solution for all your ice-making needs. Featuring a unique sliding lid, this ice cube tray allows you to release as many cubes as you want with ease. The sturdy lid design not only ensures efficient stacking but also prevents your ice cubes from absorbing any unwanted odors from the freezer. With its innovative rounded shape, ice cubes are released easily, making it a breeze to serve drinks or cool down your beverages. Plus, these trays are dishwasher safe and made from BPA-free materials, ensuring safety and convenience in your kitchen.
Pros:
– Unique sliding lid mechanism for customizable ice cube release.
– Sturdy design allows for easy stacking and saves freezer space.
– Cover effectively prevents odors, maintaining fresh ice quality.
– Rounded shapes for easy release and nice presentation of ice cubes.
– Dishwasher safe and BPA free for safe and easy cleaning.
Cons:
– The lid sliding mechanism may require some getting used to for first-time users.
– Each tray produces a limited number of cubes, which may necessitate making multiple batches for larger events.
10. Kitch 16-Cube Ice Tray
| Made In |
USA |
|---|---|
| Pack Size |
4 Trays |
| Total Cubes |
64 Cubes |
| Material |
Food Grade |
| Stackable |
Yes |
| BPA Free |
Yes |
Overview:
The Kitch Easy Release White Ice Cube Tray is a premium set of ice cube trays designed for efficiency and convenience. Proudly made in the USA with top-quality food-grade materials, this pack includes four trays that each produce 16 perfectly sized ice cubes, totaling 64 cubes. The flexible and durable design allows for easy release of ice cubes with just a simple twist, while the trays are stackable, making organization in your freezer a breeze. Additionally, these trays are 100% BPA free and dishwasher safe, ensuring a safe and easy clean-up.
Pros:
– Made in the USA, supporting local industry and factory workers.
– Each of the four trays creates 16 nice-sized ice cubes for a total of 64 cubes, providing ample supply for parties or everyday use.
– The flexible design allows for easy ice release, eliminating frustration during usage.
– Stackable feature helps save space in the freezer without trays sticking to each other.
– BPA free materials ensure safety while being dishwasher safe simplifies cleaning.
Cons:
– While the trays are designed to be flexible, some users may find that they require a bit of effort to twist initially, especially if they have frozen ice cubes for a longer period.
– The white color might show stains from certain liquids more easily than darker trays, potentially requiring more frequent cleaning to maintain appearance.
Additional Guide
Introduction: What Is an Ice Cube Tray and Who Is It For?
An ice cube tray is a simple yet essential kitchen tool designed to freeze water into ice cubes. These trays come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, catering to everyday household needs. Whether you’re chilling drinks, preparing smoothies, or storing food, ice cube trays are a must-have for home cooks, bartenders, and even parents making baby food.
Key Features and Benefits
Modern ice cube trays offer several advantages:
- Durable Materials: Most are made from flexible silicone or BPA-free plastic, making them easy to twist or pop ice cubes out.
- Variety of Shapes: From standard cubes to spheres, hearts, or novelty designs, trays can add a fun touch to beverages.
- Stackable Design: Many trays save freezer space by allowing vertical stacking.
- Leak-Proof: Some feature lids to prevent spills and freezer odors from affecting ice quality.
- Multi-Purpose Use: Beyond water, they can freeze coffee, broth, or juice for later use.
Comparison with Similar Products
While traditional plastic trays are common, newer alternatives offer unique advantages:
- Silicone Trays: More flexible and durable than plastic, often with non-stick properties.
- Stainless Steel Trays: Less common but provide faster freezing due to metal conductivity.
- Automatic Ice Makers: Faster but bulkier and pricier than manual trays.
For budget-conscious users, classic plastic trays remain a reliable choice, while silicone options are ideal for frequent use.
Use Cases or How to Use It
Ice cube trays are versatile beyond just chilling drinks:
- Beverages: Fill with water, juice, or tea for quick cooling.
- Cooking: Freeze herbs in oil, broth, or wine cubes for easy portioning.
- Entertaining: Use shaped trays (e.g., spheres for whiskey) for stylish presentations.
- Baby Food: Freeze purees in small cubes for convenient servings.
To use, simply fill the tray, place it flat in the freezer, and remove cubes once frozen by twisting or running warm water on the back.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable and widely available.
- Compact and easy to store.
- Eco-friendly (reusable, unlike disposable ice bags).
Cons:
- Manual process requires waiting for freezing.
- Cheap plastic trays may crack over time.
- Limited capacity compared to automatic ice makers.
Final Thoughts or Verdict
An ice cube tray is a small but indispensable kitchen tool that offers convenience and versatility. While basic models get the job done, investing in a high-quality silicone or covered tray can enhance durability and usability. Whether you’re a home bartender, meal prepper, or just someone who enjoys a cold drink, a reliable ice cube tray is a worthwhile addition to any kitchen.
FAQs: Ice Cube Tray
What are the benefits of using silicone ice cube trays?
Silicone ice cube trays are flexible, making it easy to pop out the ice without cracking. They also tend to be more durable, easy to clean, and can come in various shapes.
Can I use ice cube trays for anything other than ice?
Yes! Ice cube trays can be used to freeze various liquids such as fruit juices, coffee, smoothies, and even sauces, allowing for easy portioning and thawing.
What size ice cubes are best for cocktails?
Generally, larger ice cubes are preferred for cocktails as they melt slower, keeping the drink colder for longer without diluting the flavors too quickly.
Are there any specific ice cube trays designed for whiskey?
Yes, there are specialized whiskey ice cube trays that produce larger, round or square cubes. These are designed to chill whiskey effectively while minimizing dilution.
How can I prevent ice from tasting bad?
To avoid bad-tasting ice, make sure to use filtered water, thoroughly clean your ice tray regularly, and store the ice cubes in a sealed bag or container to prevent odor absorption from your freezer.
