Best Old Ice Cube Trays: Top 10 Picks 2026

The best old ice cube tray offers a nostalgic and reliable way to produce ice cubes, perfect for home bars, kitchens, and anyone who appreciates vintage functionality. While many modern alternatives exist, the classic design of these trays often provides superior durability and ease of use. Choosing the wrong type of old ice cube tray can lead to cracked plastics, difficult ice release, or even unwanted odors contaminating your frozen water.

Factors like material quality, tray flexibility, and the shape of the individual cube compartments significantly impact performance and longevity. To help you find the perfect addition to your freezer, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best old ice cube tray models available today.

For the best old ice cube tray experience prioritizing ease of use and odor prevention, consider options like the OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray with its sealed lid for stacking and angled storage, or the OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Ice Cube Tray which also features a cover to keep ice from absorbing freezer odors. Alternatively, for those seeking large, slow-melting cubes ideal for beverages, trays like the Samuelworld Large Silicone Premium Ice Trays or the W&P Crystal Ice Tray offer distinct shapes and materials focused on quality ice production.

Best Old Ice Cube Tray: Top Picks at a Glance

Image	Product	Buy
Best Pick 1	OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray Best for: Spill-free freezing	Check Price
Best Pick 2	Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: FDDBI Silicone Ice Cube Best for: Whiskey connoisseurs	Check Price
Best Pick 3	Samuelworld Large Silicone Premium Ice Trays, 2-Pack Combo, 2 Inches Best for: Mega cube makers	Check Price
Best Pick 4	Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: 2″ Big Silicone Ice Best for: Whiskey enthusiasts	Check Price
Best Pick 5	KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray (2-Pack), Easy Release 2″ Best for: Large, easy cubes	Check Price

How We Picked

In our quest to find the best old ice cube tray, we rigorously evaluated numerous options. We prioritized build quality, focusing on materials like durable stainless steel versus flexible silicone. Real-world performance was key, examining ease of ice release and cube shape integrity for slow melting.

Safety and durability, including BPA-free construction and resistance to cracking, were non-negotiable. Standout features like spill-proof lids, stacking capabilities, and unique aesthetic designs, like etched crystals, also influenced our decisions.

We ruled out trays that compromised on these core criteria to ensure a superior ice-making experience.

What Most Buyers Get Wrong

Ice Cube Shape for Optimal Melting

When choosing an old ice cube tray, the shape of your ice matters. Rounded cubes, like those from the OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray, tend to melt more slowly and evenly than sharp-edged cubes. For those who prefer a dramatic look and even slower melting, consider sphere molds like the FDDBI Silicone Ice Cube Tray or the W&P Crystal Ice Tray, whose geometric design mimics cut crystals for a sophisticated presentation.

Freezer Odor Protection is Key

A common pitfall with older ice cube trays is the absorption of freezer odors, leaving your ice tasting less than fresh. Look for trays with integrated lids or covers, such as the OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray and the OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Ice Cube Tray. These lids not only prevent odor absorption but also allow for more efficient stacking in your freezer, saving valuable space.

1. OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray

Best for: Angled freezer storage expert.

A sealed lid allows for angled storage and stacking in your freezer with this OXO tray, preventing ice from absorbing odors. Its sturdy construction supports the silicone tray for easy filling and transport.

The innovative rounded ice cube shape ensures cubes release easily. This single-unit tray, made from BPA-free silicone, offers a comfortable grip for a firm hold while filling or carrying to prevent spills.

Pros

• Sealed lid prevents odor absorption
• Stackable design for space saving
• Angled storage capability
• Easy-release rounded cube shape

Cons

• Silicone lid must be removed for cleaning.

This OXO tray is ideal for anyone looking to maintain clean-tasting ice cubes and optimize freezer space. It’s perfect for everyday use in busy households.

2. Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: FDDBI Silicone Ice Cube

Best for: Whiskey cocktail chiller.

Independent cavities on these FDDBI large ice cube trays make pushing out whiskey ice convenient. The non-sticky, flexible surface ensures smooth release of big ice cubes for cocktails.

Each of the two trays in this set produces multiple large, square ice cubes. The tight-fitting silicone lid effectively keeps ice fresh and prevents spills during freezing.

Pros

• Independent cavities for easy release
• Non-stick flexible surface
• Tight-fitting lid included
• Produces large ice cubes

Cons

• Trays are for ice cubes only, not spheres.

This set is perfect for cocktail enthusiasts who want substantial ice cubes that melt slowly. Enjoy chilled drinks with minimal dilution.

3. Samuelworld Large Silicone Premium Ice Trays, 2-Pack Combo, 2 Inches

Best for: Value pack for spheres and cubes.

Get 4 perfectly shaped large ice spheres and 6 giant ice cubes with this Samuelworld 2-pack combo. Constructed from high-quality, BPA-free, durable materials, these trays offer exceptional value.

The 2.5-inch ice ball trays feature an integrated funnel system for efficient filling. This combo includes molds for both round and square shapes, providing versatile options for beverages.

Pros

• Includes both spheres and cubes
• Large 2.5-inch sphere size
• Integrated funnel for easy filling
• BPA-free and durable materials

Cons

• Ice spheres require some dexterity to remove cleanly.

This Samuelworld combo pack is ideal for entertainers and home bar enthusiasts who want variety in their ice presentation. Make impressive spheres and cubes for any occasion.

4. Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: 2″ Big Silicone Ice

Best for: Odor-free large cube maker.

Prevent large ice cubes from absorbing refrigerator odors with this GGUW ice cube tray set. The tight-fitting silicone lid keeps your ice clean and fresh while preventing spills and leaks.

This set includes three individual trays, each capable of producing large, 2-inch ice cubes. The non-stick silicone surface and independent cavities ensure big cubes slide out smoothly without sticking.

Pros

• Lid prevents odor absorption
• Non-stick surface for easy release
• Prevents spills and leaks
• Produces large 2-inch cubes

Cons

• Individual trays may need careful placement to avoid tipping.

This GGUW set is perfect for anyone who enjoys large ice cubes for their drinks and wants to ensure they remain fresh and odor-free. Ideal for whiskey and cocktails.

5. KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray (2-Pack), Easy Release 2″

Best for: Versatile large cube maker.

Crafted from food-grade, BPA-free silicone, these KitchFort ice trays are perfect for making large, slow-melting 2-inch ice cubes for cocktails, coffee, and more. They are also safe for freezing baby food portions.

This 2-pack of durable ice trays allows for effortless release of 2-inch cubes by simply twisting and pushing from the bottom. Dishwasher safe, these trays offer hygienic convenience.

Pros

• Food-grade BPA-free silicone
• Easy release of 2-inch cubes
• Multipurpose for food freezing
• Dishwasher safe for convenience

Cons

• Twisting slightly to release cubes can be tricky for some.

These KitchFort trays are perfect for anyone who wants large, slow-melting ice and versatile options for freezing food portions. Enjoy chilled beverages and a convenient way to store homemade items.

6. OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Ice Cube Tray with Lid

Best for: Compact uniform ice maker.

This OXO Good Grips silicone ice cube tray creates uniform, easy-to-remove ice cubes. The integrated base supports the silicone tray during filling, transport, and storage.

The included cover helps keep ice from absorbing freezer odors and allows stacking multiple trays, maximizing freezer space. Each cube is uniform in size for consistent chilling.

Pros

• Uniform cube size
• Easy removal of cubes
• Sturdy base for support
• Odor-preventing cover for stacking

Cons

• Generates smaller than standard ice cubes.

This OXO tray is ideal for those who prefer smaller, uniform ice cubes for everyday drinks. It offers practical features for easy handling and storage.

7. W&P Crystal Ice Tray, Perfect Etched Large Cubes, Slow Melting

Best for: Elegant etched ice maker.

W&P’s Crystal Ice Tray crafts 4 large 2-inch cubes with an intricate, etched geometric design that resembles brilliant cut crystals. This unique cube instantly dresses up any beverage.

These slow-melting cubes chill drinks to perfection with minimal dilution. The tray features design details for easy filling: fill from the top hole until water comes out the side hole.

Pros

• Unique etched crystal design
• Creates 4 large 2-inch cubes
• Slow melting for less dilution
• Easy fill system with overflow indicator

Cons

• Requires running bottom under warm water for release.

This W&P tray is perfect for the home bartender or anyone who appreciates a touch of elegance in their drinks. Enjoy visually stunning and perfectly chilled beverages.

8. OXO Good Grips Ice Cube Tray

Best for: Versatile stackable ice tray.

Enjoy flexible ice release with the OXO Good Grips Ice Cube Tray, featuring a unique lid that slides to release only the cubes you need. This lid also provides sturdy support for efficient stacking.

The cover effectively prevents ice cubes from absorbing unwanted freezer odors, ensuring fresh-tasting ice. Its innovative rounded cube shape allows for easy release.

Pros

• Slides to release specific cubes
• Prevents odor absorption
• Sturdy lid for stacking
• Easy-release rounded cube shape

Cons

• Cube size is not standardized for large format ice.

This OXO tray is ideal for individuals who want convenient access to ice cubes while preventing freezer odors. Its stackable design makes it a practical choice for various freezer sizes.

9. Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever (11″, 18 cubes),

Best for: Plastic-free vintage ice maker.

Made from premium food-grade 304 stainless steel, this Captain Cranberry tray is plastic-free and non-toxic, ensuring odorless ice every time. The retro lever handle cracks ice cubes free with one smooth pull.

This 11-inch tray produces 18 compact, solid cubes designed for cocktails and iced lattes. Its quick-freezing capability contributes to slow melting and less dilution in drinks.

Pros

• Plastic-free and non-toxic 304 stainless steel
• Easy release with retro lever handle
• Makes 18 compact cubes
• Fast freezing for slow melt

Cons

• Requires more freezer space due to its length.

This stainless steel tray is perfect for those seeking a durable, eco-friendly alternative to plastic for making classic ice cubes. Enjoy pure-tasting ice for spirits and coffee.

10. ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays (Set of 2), Sphere Ice Ball

Best for: Dual ice shape & size maker.

ROTTAY’s set of two ice trays offers both sphere and large square ice cube molds, with a quick-open buckle for effortless release. Unique bumping seals ensure perfectly round 2-inch ice balls.

The sphere trays create 6 crystal-clear 2-inch ice balls each, while the square tray makes 6 large 2-inch ice cubes. A bonus funnel is included for easy filling, and a balanced design prevents leaning.

Pros

• Makes both spheres and cubes
• Produces 2-inch spheres and cubes
• Quick open buckle for easy release
• Includes bonus filling funnel

Cons

• Sphere trays might require careful alignment to avoid excess water leakage.

This ROTTAY set is perfect for anyone who enjoys a variety of large ice shapes for their beverages. Impress guests with perfectly formed spheres and cubes for any drink.

Plastic vs. Silicone vs. Steel: The Ice Tray Trade-Off

The fundamental difference between any truly effective ice tray and a mediocre one comes down to material science and fundamental physics, not marketing jargon. If you want ice that reliably releases and doesn’t leach weird flavors, you must prioritize non-porous, temperature-stable materials. Stainless steel, like in the Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever, offers an inherent advantage here, being completely inert and durable.

Silicone, as seen across multiple options such as the FDDBI Silicone Ice Cube Tray and Samuelworld Large Silicone Premium Ice Trays, provides flexibility for easy ejection but can absorb odors over time if not carefully selected and maintained. Traditional plastic, often found in older, simpler designs, is the poorest performer, prone to cracking, staining, and becoming brittle in cold temperatures, though it is admittedly the cheapest.

When evaluating the options, focus on the ice shape and release mechanism. The OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray utilizes a rounded cube and a sealed lid, which is excellent for preventing spills and odor absorption, and the lid allows for easy stacking. However, the release isn’t always as effortless as silicone’s inherent pliability.

Similarly, the OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Ice Cube Tray with Lid offers stacking and odor prevention, but the smaller cubes might not be ideal for slow dilution in spirits. For that, larger formats like those found in the Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: FDDBI Silicone Ice Cube or the KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray (2-Pack) excel.

The key distinction that separates the truly useful from the merely decorative lies in the trade-off between ease of use and ice purity. Silicone trays, particularly those with independent cavities like the Large Ice Cube Tray for Whiskey: 2 Big Silicone Ice, offer the most straightforward release. You simply push from the bottom.

The W&P Crystal Ice Tray, with its aesthetically pleasing etched design, aims for a unique look but relies on the silicone’s flexibility for release, and the intricate patterns might make cleaning more of a chore than with simpler shapes. If your primary goal is pure-tasting, easy-to-extract ice, the focus should remain on the material’s inertness and the design’s simplicity of release.

Many consumers are drawn to the novelty of unique ice shapes, as evidenced by the ROTTAY Ice Cube Trays’ sphere molds or the W&P Crystal Ice Tray’s geometric aesthetic. While these can enhance a beverage’s presentation, they often introduce complications. Spheres, for instance, can be trickier to remove perfectly than cubes.

The OXO Good Grips Ice Cube Tray, with its sliding lid that releases individual cubes, strikes a balance between ease of removal and preventing freezer odor, making it a solid contender for a general-purpose best old ice cube tray.

Ultimately, for the best old ice cube tray experience, prioritize material and function over intricate design. Stainless steel is the king of inertness, while quality silicone offers the best balance of flexibility and ease of release for everyday use, particularly in larger formats like the KitchFort Large Silicone Ice Cube Tray (2-Pack). If odor absorption is a major concern, look for trays with well-fitting, sealed lids, such as the OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray.

What to Look for in the Best Old Ice Cube Tray

Material considerations

When selecting an ice cube tray, prioritize the material that best suits your needs. For those who value convenience and easy ice removal, flexible silicone trays are excellent; look for BPA-free silicone to ensure health safety. If durability and a traditional feel are paramount, opt for rigid plastic trays, ensuring they are also BPA-free.

For users concerned about lingering odors or flavors affecting their ice, stainless steel offers superior odor resistance. A good tray will feel sturdy yet pliable (silicone) or solid and well-formed (plastic/steel), with no sharp edges.

For everyday use, BPA-free rigid plastic gives the best balance of durability and convenience.

Size and shape of cubes

The size and shape of your ice cubes directly impact your beverage experience. Standard cube trays, typically producing 1-inch cubes, offer unmatched versatility for everyday drinks and water. If you prefer your drinks to stay colder for longer without rapid dilution, large cube trays are the clear choice, as their larger surface area melts slower.

For the enthusiast seeking visual flair, specialty shaped trays like spheres or diamonds add a sophisticated touch to cocktails. Evaluate trays by their stated cube dimensions; a good standard tray produces consistently sized cubes, while large cube trays minimize dilution effectively for any beverage.

Ease of use and cleaning

Consider ease of use and cleaning a critical factor for regular ice production. Trays with a twist-and-release mechanism offer a user-friendly experience, snapping ice cubes free with minimal effort. Look for materials that are explicitly labeled as dishwasher-safe for effortless cleanup.

Nonstick surfaces are a significant advantage, preventing ice from sticking or ‘welding’ together, ensuring each cube is easily accessible. A tray that releases ice smoothly and cleans with minimal scrubbing is ideal.

For the most hassle-free experience, choose a dishwasher-safe silicone tray with an effective twist-and-release design.

Which Should You Choose?

• If you want to avoid spills and keep ice fresh, choose a tray with a sealed or sturdy lid designed for stacking and odor prevention.
• If you’re looking for large, slow-melting cubes for cocktails, choose a silicone tray with independent cavities for easy release of big ice blocks or spheres.
• If you prioritize a plastic-free and durable option, choose a stainless steel tray with a lever mechanism for cube release.
• If you want a simple, no-frills tray for everyday use, choose a basic design with a focus on easy cube release and freezer odor prevention.

Quick Best Old Ice Cube Tray Buying Checklist

• Material: Opt for durable, food-grade materials like silicone, BPA-free plastic, or stainless steel.
• Cube Size: Consider if you prefer standard cubes, large cubes, or unique shapes for specific beverages.
• Ease of Release: Look for trays designed for easy ice removal without excessive force.
• Durability: Choose trays that can withstand repeated freezing and thawing cycles.
• Cleaning: Prioritize dishwasher-safe or easy-to-clean materials for convenience.
• Capacity: Select a tray that produces enough ice cubes for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Silicone Old Ice Cube Trays Easier To Use?

Silicone old ice cube trays are often easier to use due to their flexibility. The material allows for simple bending and pushing to release frozen cubes, minimizing the risk of breakage compared to rigid plastic.

What Is The Benefit Of Larger Ice Cubes From Old Trays?

Larger ice cubes created by some old ice cube trays melt slower, which is ideal for chilling drinks without excessive dilution. This maintains the drink’s intended flavor profile for a longer period.

Why Are Bpa-Free Materials Important For Ice Cube Trays?

BPA-free materials are essential for ice cube trays because they prevent the leaching of harmful chemicals into your drinking water. This ensures that your ice remains pure and safe for consumption.

Can I Put Most Old Ice Cube Trays In The Dishwasher?

Many old ice cube trays, especially those made from silicone or certain durable plastics, are dishwasher-safe. Always check the product’s care instructions to confirm it can withstand the heat and detergent.

What Is The Advantage Of Stainless Steel Ice Cube Trays?

Stainless steel old ice cube trays offer excellent durability and are resistant to odors and stains. They provide a robust option for ice production, ensuring longevity and a clean taste for your ice.

Final Words

Investing in the best old ice cube tray ensures a steady supply of perfectly formed ice for all your beverage needs. These simple yet effective tools offer convenience and last for years, proving their value in any kitchen. Upgrade your chilling game today and enjoy consistently great ice.