How to Keep Ice Cubes Frozen Longer

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Ok, it's not the biggest problem in the world, but an ice bucket full of water is a not-so-subtle hint that the party's over. Make your cubes last until the final guest has had their fill.

Step 1: Boil the water
Boil the water before you put it into the ice cube trays. This removes the air bubbles, which makes the cubes last longer and look nicer, too—crystal clear instead of cloudy.

Tip
If your trays are plastic, be sure to let the water cool down before you pour it in!

Step 2: Make them bigger
Smaller ice cubes melt faster (and crushed ice melts the fastest), so use the biggest trays you can find, or make ice 'chunks' by freezing water in mini-muffin tins.

Tip
For an average cocktail party, you should have at least two-thirds of a pound of ice per guest.

Step 3: Insulate the bucket
Line your ice bucket with bubble wrap or a dish towel before putting the cubes in; the insulation slows down heat transfer, so they don’t melt as quickly.

Step 4: Use a lid
Cover your ice bucket with a lid to prevent warm air from reaching the cubes. Keep your cool.

Did You Know?
Americans use the most ice cubes in the world.