When it comes to enjoying refreshing drinks at home, the humble ice cube tray often goes unnoticed. Yet, this simple kitchen tool plays a crucial role in enhancing your beverage experience — from cooling down summer cocktails to preserving herbs or creating homemade ice packs. In the UK, with a diverse array of options available, choosing the best ice cube tray can be both exciting and challenging. The right tray can make your life easier, more sustainable, and even stylish. This guide will walk you through how to select the perfect ice cube tray, review the Best Ice Cube Trays available, and explore emerging trends shaping this niche.
Top 9 Best Ice Cube Trays in UK - 2025 - A Quick Overview
Detailed Product Reviews on Ice Cube Trays in UK - 2025 - A Quick Overview
Product Description
The Lékué XL Silicone Ice Cube Tray offers an innovative solution for anyone who enjoys crafting perfectly square ice cubes for their beverages. Made from high-quality Platinum Silicone, this tray stands out due to its flexibility, which allows for effortless ice removal. No more banging your tray against the counter; simply push from the bottom, and your ice cubes pop right out.
One of the standout features is its ability to prevent freezer odors, ensuring fresh ice that enhances the taste of your drinks. With a capacity of 456 millilitres, this tray is designed to accommodate a good amount of water, providing ample ice for cocktails, soft drinks, or even water bottles. The vibrant turquoise color adds a touch of style to your kitchen while being easy to clean and store.
For those looking for a durable and reliable ice cube solution, the Lékué XL Silicone Ice Cube Tray is an excellent choice. Its lightweight design (only 60g) and compact dimensions (23.11 x 11.68 x 5.08 cm) make it an easy addition to any freezer.
Pros:
- Flexible Platinum Silicone for easy ice removal
- Prevents freezer odors for fresh-tasting ice
- Attractive turquoise color
- Lightweight and compact design
- Generous capacity for multiple ice cubes
Cons:
- Limited to square-shaped ice cubes
- Requires some space in the freezer
Product Description
The Tala No-Spill Ice Cube Tray with Lid is a game-changer for anyone who loves making ice cubes or frozen treats. This innovative tray combines functionality with convenience, thanks to its silicone base that allows for easy release of ice cubes. The no-spill lid is particularly noteworthy; it ensures hassle-free filling without the risk of water sloshing out, making it ideal for busy kitchens.
The transparent design not only adds a modern touch but also allows you to easily monitor the ice-making process. Whether you’re preparing ice cubes for your drinks or creating fun frozen treats with fruit or yogurt, this tray handles it all with ease. Weighing in at just 106 grams, it’s lightweight and easy to store.
One of the standout features of this ice cube tray is its versatility. It’s not just limited to traditional ice cubes; you can get creative and make ice pops or frozen yogurt bites, making it a fantastic tool for family fun. Overall, the Tala No-Spill Ice Cube Tray is an excellent addition to any kitchen.
Pros:
- Silicone base for easy cube release
- No-spill lid for mess-free filling
- Versatile for various frozen treats
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Transparent design for easy monitoring
Cons:
- Limited to cube shape
- Made of plastic, which may not appeal to eco-conscious users
Product Description
The OXO Good Grips Silicone Ice Cube Tray is a game changer for anyone looking to elevate their ice-making experience. This innovative product combines functionality with design, making it an essential addition to your kitchen. With dimensions of 19.05 x 6.35 x 12.7 cm and a weight of 340 g, it is compact yet capable of producing perfectly shaped ice cubes. The flexible silicone material allows for easy release, eliminating the struggle often associated with traditional plastic trays.
One standout feature is its stackable lid, which not only saves space in your freezer but also keeps ice cubes fresh and free from unwanted odors. This is particularly beneficial for those living in areas where freezer space is at a premium or for those who have a variety of strong-smelling foods stored nearby.
The OXO Good Grips Silicone Ice Cube Tray is made from a combination of durable plastic and silicone, ensuring longevity while being easy to clean. For ice enthusiasts, cocktail lovers, or anyone who enjoys a chilled beverage, this tray is a must-have.
Pros:
- Flexible design for easy ice release
- Stackable lid saves freezer space
- Keeps ice fresh and odor-free
- Durable material ensures longevity
- Perfectly shaped ice cubes every time
Cons:
- May take up more space than standard plastic trays
- Limited color options
Product Description
If you’re on the hunt for a reliable ice cube tray that combines functionality and ease of use, the BPA Free Large Ice Cube Trays by staronce could be your perfect match. Designed to create twelve large, perfectly shaped ice cubes, these trays are crafted from food-grade silicone, ensuring safety and durability. The standout feature is their flexible design, which allows for mess-free removal of ice cubes—no more wrestling with traditional trays!
The sleek black oil color adds a modern touch to your kitchen, while the compact dimensions of 21 x 11 x 5 cm make them easy to store in your freezer. Weighing only 0.11 g, these trays are lightweight and user-friendly, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their beverage experience.
Pros:
- Made from BPA-free, food-grade silicone for safety and durability
- Flexible design allows for easy and mess-free ice removal
- Creates large ice cubes perfect for cocktails, whiskey, or iced beverages
- Compact size fits well in any freezer without taking up too much space
- Sleek black oil color adds aesthetic appeal to your kitchenware
Cons:
- Silicone may retain odors if not cleaned properly
- Some users may prefer smaller ice cubes for certain drinks
- Requires a bit of practice to fill without spilling
Product Description
If you’re looking to elevate your beverage experience, the Flexible Silicone Ice Cube and Ball Moulds by Hanmar might just be what you need. This innovative tray allows you to create giant ice cubes and spheres, designed specifically to keep your drinks colder for longer without diluting their flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or mixing cocktails for a cozy evening, these moulds can be a game-changer. Made from high-quality silicone, they are easy to use and clean, making them a fantastic addition to any kitchen.
The product dimensions of 18 x 13 x 10 cm make them compact enough for most freezers, while their flexible nature allows for easy release of ice. Weighing only 280 g, they’re lightweight and easy to handle. Available in a sleek grey color, they blend seamlessly with any kitchen decor.
Pros:
- Creates large ice cubes and spheres that maintain drink temperature
- Made from high-quality, flexible silicone for easy removal
- Compact size fits in most freezers
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Ideal for summer beverages and cocktails
Cons:
- Limited color options (only available in grey)
- Requires adequate freezer space for the tray
- May not be suitable for those who prefer traditional ice shapes
Product Description
Looking to elevate your beverage game? The Heart Shaped Silicone Ice Cube Tray is a delightful addition to any kitchen. Crafted from high-quality silicone rubber, this tray effortlessly produces charming heart-shaped ice cubes that are perfect for romantic dinners, parties, or special occasions. Measuring 11.7 x 25.8 x 2.1 cm and weighing only 104 g, it’s lightweight and easy to handle.
The flexible silicone material makes it a breeze to release the ice cubes without any hassle, ensuring you get perfectly shaped hearts every time. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, simplifying the cleanup process after your event. Whether you’re hosting a Valentine’s Day celebration or just want to add a fun twist to your everyday drinks, this ice cube tray is practical and enjoyable.
Pros:
- Unique heart-shaped ice cubes enhance drink presentation.
- Made from durable and flexible silicone rubber.
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
- Lightweight and compact design for easy storage.
- Perfect for various occasions like parties and romantic dinners.
Cons:
- Limited to heart shape, no variety in ice cube design.
- May take longer to freeze compared to traditional ice trays.
- Requires adequate freezer space due to size.
Product Description
The KitchenCraft Easy Release Stackable Ice Tray is an essential addition to any kitchen, designed to make ice-making both effortless and efficient. This user-friendly ice tray allows you to create perfectly shaped ice cubes with a simple twist, ensuring that your drinks remain refreshingly cold. With dimensions of 32L x 12W x 4.5H cm, it fits conveniently into any freezer, maximizing space while providing ample ice for parties, gatherings, or daily hydration needs.
Made from durable plastic and featuring a sleek white design, this ice tray not only performs well but also complements any kitchen décor. The stackable feature is particularly beneficial, allowing you to create multiple trays without taking up too much freezer space. Whether you’re preparing for a summer BBQ or simply enjoying a chilled drink at home, the KitchenCraft Easy Release Stackable Ice Tray is your reliable partner in keeping drinks ice-cold.
Pros:
- Effortless ice release with a simple twist
- Stackable design maximizes freezer space
- Durable plastic material ensures longevity
- Sleek, modern design fits various kitchen styles
- Perfect for both casual and formal occasions
Cons:
- Limited to cube shape, no variety in ice forms
- May require initial hand-washing before first use
Product Description
Looking for a way to elevate your beverages and recipes? The Silicone Ice Cube Trays with Lids Set from eisaro might be the perfect solution. This innovative product allows you to create large, perfectly shaped ice cubes effortlessly, making it an essential addition to your kitchen. With dimensions of 98 x 97.6 x 55.46 cm and weighing only 470 g, these trays are lightweight and easy to store.
Crafted from high-quality silicone, they are not only flexible but also durable, ensuring they withstand regular use without cracking or breaking. The inclusion of lids adds a layer of convenience, allowing you to stack multiple trays without worrying about spills or odors. These trays are versatile enough for various uses, from chilling cocktails to freezing baby food, making them a must-have for any home.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing meals for little ones, the eisaro silicone ice cube trays deliver excellent results every time. Their sleek grey color adds a modern touch to your kitchen, ensuring that functionality meets style.
Pros:
- Creates large, perfect ice cubes effortlessly
- Made from durable, flexible silicone
- Comes with lids for mess-free stacking
- Versatile for cocktails, baby food, and more
- Lightweight and easy to store
Cons:
- Limited color options
- Requires proper cleaning to avoid odor retention
Product Description
The BarCraft White Ice Cube Tray is a practical solution for anyone looking to effortlessly create ice cubes for their beverages. With a capacity to produce 14 ice cubes at a time, this tray is designed for efficiency and ease of use. Made from food-safe plastic, it ensures that the ice produced is fresh-tasting, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to more formal events.
Measuring at 4 x 17 x 26 cm, this ice cube tray fits comfortably in most freezers, while its flexible design allows for easy release of the cubes without the usual struggle associated with traditional trays. Weighing just 130 grams, it’s lightweight and easy to handle, which adds to its overall convenience.
The BarCraft White Ice Cube Tray stands out not just for its functionality but also for its clean, white appearance, making it an attractive addition to any kitchen. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet town, this ice tray is a must-have for anyone who enjoys chilled drinks.
Pros:
- Creates and releases 14 ice cubes effortlessly
- Made from food-safe plastic for fresh-tasting ice
- Flexible design for easy cube release
- Compact size fits in most freezers
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons:
- Limited color options (only available in white)
- May not fit larger freezer compartments
How We Picked and Tested
Our methodology centered around rigorous testing, user feedback, and alignment with sustainable practices. Here’s how we selected our top contenders:
- Material Durability and Safety: We prioritized non-toxic, BPA-free plastics, silicone, and stainless steel options that withstand frequent use.
- Functionality and Ease of Use: Trays that are easy to fill, unmold, clean, and store scored higher.
- Design Innovation: Clever designs such as flexible silicone, stackable features, or unique shapes garnered more points.
- Sustainability & ESG Impact: Eco-friendly materials, recyclability, and manufacturers’ commitment to social responsibility were also key factors.
- Customer Reviews & Ratings: We scoured trusted platforms like Amazon UK, reviews on Which?, and professional blogs for authentic user insights.
Using these criteria, we conducted side-by-side testing, measuring factors like ice release, ease of cleaning, and durability over weeks of daily use.
Various Types of Ice Cube Trays
Ice cube trays today come in a mosaic of styles tailored to different needs and lifestyles. Here’s a quick overview:
- Standard Rectangular and Square Trays: Classic design, easy to manufacture, widely available, suitable for everyday use.
- Silicone Flexible Trays: Offer superior flexibility for effortless ice removal; often come in fun or functional shapes.
- Tiered & Stackable Trays: Maximize freezer space, ideal for bulk freezing or smaller kitchens.
- Specialized Shapes: From spherical to diamond-shaped, catering for cocktail garnishes or aesthetic purposes.
- Silicone-Bottomed & Collapsible Trays: Combine flexibility with collapsibility for space-saving storage and easy de-molding.
Understanding these types allows you to match your needs — whether it’s functional durability, aesthetic appeal, or eco-conscious materials.
Tips to Choose the Best Ice Cube Tray
Before making a purchase, consider these expert tips:
- Material Matters: Opt for BPA-free silicone or stainless steel for durability and safety. Silicone offers flexibility but may trap odours if not cleaned properly.
- Flexibility and Ease of Demoulding: Flexible trays ensure effortless ice release, especially for intricate shapes or small cubes.
- Size & Shape: Larger cubes melt slower, making them perfect for cocktails; smaller cubes suit quick cooling needs.
- Cleaning & Maintenance: Dishwasher-safe trays save time. Avoid trays that trap water or dirt and promote bacterial growth.
- Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Features: Look for trays made from recycled or biodegradable materials to align with ESG principles.
- Price & Warranty: Balance quality with cost, ensuring longevity for your investment.
Ultimately, selecting an ice cube tray is about aligning your daily habits with functionality, style, and sustainability. Remember, a well-chosen tray turns everyday ice-making into an effortless ritual.
Types of Ice Cube Trays in the UK Market
Let’s delve into popular types, their unique benefits, and recommended models:
1. Silicone Flexible Trays
These trays, such as the Silicone Ice Cube Trays, excel in flexibility, making ice removal almost playful rather than a chore. Their non-stick surface prevents breakage and is often dishwasher safe. Features often include ergonomic designs for easy handling and diverse shapes for cocktails or herbs.
2. Stainless Steel Trays
Durable and eco-friendly, stainless steel trays like the stainless steel options may not have the typical individual compartments but are excellent for large cubes or specialized uses. They’re long-lasting and free from plastic leaching concerns.
3. Stackable & Space-Saving Trays
Ideal for those with limited freezer space, trays such as the stackable models maximize efficiency, allowing multiple layers to be stored neatly.
4. Specialty & Shaped Trays
For bartenders or home mixologists, trays with fun shapes—like spheres, diamonds, or stars—add a decorative touch to drinks. Examples include shaped silicone trays that cater to creative presentation.
ESG Initiatives & the Growing Self-Help Culture
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are increasingly influencing consumer choices. Many UK brands now prioritize recyclable packaging, non-toxic materials, and ethical manufacturing processes, aligning with the ESG ethos. As consumers grow more conscious, brands leveraging sustainable practices tend to foster greater loyalty and social impact.
The rise of self-help cultures also encourages consumers to craft their own ice, reducing reliance on commercial or single-use options, further pushing demand for versatile, eco-conscious trays.
Advantages of High-Quality Ice Cube Trays
- Enhanced durability: Avoids cracking or breaking over time.
- Better aesthetics: Shapes that impress guests and elevate presentation.
- Time-saving: Easy to fill, demold, and clean.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly materials reduce environmental impact.
- Versatility: Use for herbs, chocolates, or even DIY skincare.
Investing in quality ice cube trays not only simplifies your routine but also aligns with a future where sustainability and innovation are key.
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. Are silicone ice cube trays safe to use?
- Yes. High-quality, BPA-free silicone trays are safe, flexible, and easy to clean. Always check product certifications and avoid those with questionable additives.
- 2. How do I clean and maintain my ice cube tray?
- Most trays are dishwasher safe. For stubborn odours, soak them in vinegar or baking soda solution. Regular cleaning prolongs lifespan and ensures hygienic ice.
- 3. Can I use silicone trays for items other than ice?
- Absolutely. Silicone trays excel in freezing herbs, butter, chocolates, or crafting DIY skincare products.
- 4. Are metal trays better than plastic or silicone?
- Metal trays are durable and eco-friendly but less common. They’re ideal for large or specialty cubes but may require more care to avoid corrosion.
- 5. How do I choose the right size for my needs?
- Consider your typical drink size. Larger cubes melt slower, ideal for spirits; smaller ones cool drinks quickly. Balance size with your storage and usage volume.
Conclusion
Choosing the best ice cube tray in the UK involves understanding your specific needs, prioritizing sustainable materials, and considering design innovations. Whether you prefer the flexibility of silicone, the durability of stainless steel, or the space efficiency of stackable trays, the right choice enhances your daily routine, elevates your entertaining game, and contributes positively to the environment.
As emerging technologies such as **smart freezers** and **automated ice dispensers** become mainstream, the humble ice cube tray will continue to evolve—integrating features like automatic filling, phase-change materials, or even IoT connectivity. Embracing these shifts can transform your kitchen into a hub of innovation and sustainability.
Invest wisely in a quality tray, and you’ll unlock a world of effortless, stylish, and eco-conscious chilling—turning a simple act into a delight for your senses and the planet.
