Choosing Your Perfect OXO Ice Tray: A Comprehensive Guide

Picture this: A scorching summer day, a refreshing drink in hand, and perfectly chilled ice that doesn’t dilute your beverage too quickly. This isn’t just a dream; with the right ice tray, it’s an everyday reality. For over a decade, I’ve immersed myself in the world of kitchen essentials, and few items are as frequently overlooked yet as impactful as the humble ice tray. Today, we’re diving deep into the innovative offerings from OXO, a brand renowned for its thoughtful design and user-centric approach. With countless options on the market, selecting the ideal ice tray can feel overwhelming, but this guide will illuminate the features, benefits, and considerations to help you find an OXO ice tray that perfectly matches your lifestyle and keeps your drinks delightfully cool.

Understanding the Different Types of OXO Ice Trays

OXO excels in designing ice trays that address common frustrations, primarily focusing on spill prevention, odor protection, and effortless ice release. Their product line typically features two main material types, each with distinct advantages. For best ice cube roundups on this site.

OXO Good Grips Ice Trays (Plastic with Sliding Lids)

The classic OXO Good Grips ice tray is a testament to simple, effective design. Crafted from durable plastic, these trays are often paired with a clever sliding lid that revolutionized home ice making.

• Pros:

  • Spill-Proof Design: The innovative sliding lid creates a secure seal, allowing you to transport the tray from sink to freezer without drips or spills, even if tilted. This also makes stacking trays hassle-free.
  • Odor Protection: The sealed lid acts as a barrier, preventing your ice from absorbing unwanted freezer odors, ensuring a fresh, clean taste every time.
  • Easy Release: Designed with rounded cube shapes, these trays often allow for easy ice removal with a gentle twist, or by simply sliding the lid to dispense a few cubes at a time.
  • Durability & Value: Made from sturdy, BPA-free plastic, these trays are built to last and are typically more budget-friendly. They are also top-rack dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

• Cons:

  • The sliding lid can sometimes be a bit stiff to open or close, especially when the tray is freshly filled, potentially requiring a bit more effort.

OXO Covered Silicone Ice Trays (with Rigid Frames)

For those who prioritize specific cube sizes or the unparalleled ease of silicone, OXO offers a range of covered silicone ice trays, often featuring a rigid outer frame for stability.

• Pros:

  • Effortless Ice Release: The flexible silicone molds allow you to pop out individual ice cubes with minimal effort, making for a smooth and satisfying experience.
  • Large Cube Options: Popular for cocktails and slow-melting drinks, OXO’s large cube silicone trays produce sizable 1.75-inch square cubes that dilute beverages gradually, preserving the drink’s flavor longer.
  • Stability with Flexibility: The ingenious combination of a flexible silicone tray within a rigid plastic frame provides the best of both worlds: easy ice removal coupled with the stability needed to carry and stack the tray in the freezer without spills.
  • Odor & Spill Prevention: Like their plastic counterparts, these silicone trays come with covers to guard against freezer odors and prevent spills.
  • Variety: OXO also offers silicone trays for cocktail-sized cubes or ice sticks, catering to diverse drinkware and preferences.

• Cons:

  • Silicone, in some cases, can potentially absorb freezer smells over an extended period if not properly cleaned or if the lid isn’t perfectly sealed.
  • Generally a higher price point than plastic trays.

Other Notable OXO Ice Tray Varieties

Our Picks for the Best Ice Tray in 2026 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Num	Product	Action
1	GORILLA GRIP BPA-Free Easy Release Ice Cube Tray for Freezer, Make Lots of Ice, 56 Cubes Total, Kit Includes 2 Stackable Leakproof Trays with Lid and Soft Handle Grips, Scooper, Bin, For Coffee, Gray
2	Extra Large Reusable Ice Cubes for Drinks(1.9” Sq.) - 6 Pack BPA-Free Plastic Ice Cube - Chills Drinks Without Diluting Suitable for Large Containers, Water Pitchers, Cold Therapy Devices
3	3 Pack Ice Trays for Freezer, 99 PCS Ice Cube Tray with Lid and Bin, Round Ice Cube Mold, Circle Ice Maker for Chilling Drinks (0.8 inch, Blue)
4	GORILLA GRIP BPA-Free Easy Release Ice Cube Tray for Freezer, Make Lots of Ice, 56 Cubes Total, Kit Includes 2 Stackable Leakproof Trays with Lid and Soft Handle Grips, Scooper, Bin, For Coffee, Red
5	Ice Cube Trays for Freezer - 3 Pack 42 Cubes, Easy to Release Silicone Ice Trays with Spill-Resistant Lids, Reusable Ice Tray,Stackable and BPA-Free, Perfect for Cocktails, Drinks,and Ice Coffee
6	DOQAUS Ice Cube Tray with Lid and Bin - 4 Pack Silicone Ice Cube Trays for Freezer, Stackable Ice Bucket Kits with Storage Container & Scoop for Kitchen, RV, Cocktail, Coffee
7	OXO Good Grips Ice Cube Tray - 2 Pack White
8	Ice Cube Trays, Silicone Easy-Release and Flexible 14-Ice Trays with Spill-Resistant Removable Lid, BPA Free, Durable and Dishwasher Safe, 2 Pack
9	Ice Cube Tray 5 Pack, Stackable Silicone Ice Cube Trays with Lid– Easy Release Reusable Ice Tray, BPA-Free Rectangular Ice Cube Mold Set for Cocktails, Coffee, Whiskey & Drinks- Black
10	Ice Tray Easy Release White Ice Cube Trays, 16 Cube (Pack of 2) (2867-WHT-2)

Beyond the core plastic and silicone options, OXO occasionally offers specialized designs, such as:

• No-Spill Ice Stick Trays: Perfect for water bottles and narrow openings, these trays produce long, slender ice sticks.
• Covered Silicone Cocktail Cubes: These often create smaller, uniform cubes ideal for various mixed drinks.

Detailed Comparison of Popular OXO Ice Trays

To help you visualize the differences, here’s a detailed comparison of common OXO ice tray features:

How to Choose the Right OXO Ice Tray for You

With the array of OXO ice trays available, making the perfect choice boils down to understanding your specific needs and priorities.

1. Identify Your Usage Needs

Consider how much ice you use and for what purpose. Do you need a constant supply of standard cubes for daily drinks, or do you primarily seek large, slow-melting cubes for special occasions like whiskey tastings or making cold brew? The quantity of ice a tray produces (e.g., 6 large cubes vs. 14 standard vs. 48 small cubes) and the desired size should guide your decision.

2. Prioritize Material Safety

OXO is committed to safety, and most of their ice trays are clearly labeled as BPA-free. This ensures that no harmful chemicals leach into your ice, making it safe for you and your family. Always look for this assurance when purchasing any food-contact product.

3. Evaluate Durability and Longevity

OXO products are generally known for their robust construction. The Good Grips plastic trays are designed to withstand repeated freezing and twisting, while the silicone trays with rigid frames offer a combination of flexibility and structural integrity. Investing in a durable tray means fewer replacements and consistent performance over time.

4. Consider Ease of Cleaning

Hygiene is paramount in the kitchen. Most OXO ice trays are top-rack dishwasher safe, which simplifies cleaning significantly. For hand washing, the smooth surfaces and rounded edges of OXO trays generally make them easy to scrub clean, preventing residue buildup.

5. Leverage User Feedback and Reviews

Before making a final decision, delve into what other users are saying. Reviews often provide practical insights into a tray’s performance in real-world scenarios, highlighting aspects like lid stiffness, ease of ice release, and how well it fits into various freezers. Pay attention to common themes in positive and negative feedback to inform your choice.

Tips for Using and Maintaining Your OXO Ice Tray

Maximizing the lifespan and performance of your OXO ice tray is simple with a few best practices.

• Initial Cleaning: Always wash your new ice tray thoroughly with warm soapy water before its first use to remove any manufacturing residues.
• Avoid Overfilling: Filling the compartments just below the rim prevents water from freezing over the lid, which can make it difficult to open and release cubes. For covered trays, this also minimizes spills during transport.
• Gentle Ice Release: For plastic trays, a slight twist is usually enough. For silicone trays, simply push the bottom of each cube individually. Avoid excessive force that could damage the tray.
• Regular Cleaning: Wash your ice trays regularly to prevent the buildup of mineral deposits from water or the absorption of freezer odors. Dishwasher-safe models make this exceptionally easy.
• Proper Storage: Utilize the stackable design of OXO trays to optimize freezer space. Ensure trays are completely dry before stacking for long-term storage to prevent them from sticking together.

Top OXO Ice Trays Loved by Users

Based on robust design, user satisfaction, and innovative features, here are some highly favored OXO ice tray models:

1. OXO Good Grips Ice Cube Tray with Lid: A perennial favorite for its spill-proof design, odor protection, and easy-release rounded cubes, perfect for everyday use. Its robust plastic construction offers excellent durability and value.
2. OXO Covered Silicone Large Cube Ice Tray: Ideal for connoisseurs of fine spirits or cold brew, this tray delivers six generous 1.75-inch square cubes. The combination of flexible silicone within a rigid frame makes for perfect, slow-melting ice with effortless extraction.
3. OXO Good Grips Covered Ice Cube Tray – Small Cubes/Cocktail Cubes: For those who prefer smaller, faster-chilling ice, or specific cocktail aesthetics, these silicone trays with covers provide numerous petite cubes that are easy to release and store.

Conclusion

Choosing the right ice tray might seem like a small decision, but it significantly impacts your daily convenience and beverage enjoyment. OXO ice trays, with their thoughtful design, focus on spill prevention, odor protection, and easy ice release, stand out as reliable choices for any kitchen. Whether you opt for the versatile plastic Good Grips tray or the specialized covered silicone models for large or cocktail cubes, OXO offers a solution tailored to your needs. Consider your daily ice requirements, preferred cube size, and ease of use to select an OXO ice tray that will serve you well for years to come.

What’s your go-to ice cube size for a perfect drink? Share your preferences in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes OXO ice trays different from other brands?

OXO ice trays are distinguished by their commitment to user-friendly design, particularly their effective spill-proof lids that also prevent freezer odors, and features like easy-release cube shapes and stackability. These innovations address common frustrations users face with traditional ice trays.

Are OXO ice trays dishwasher safe?

Yes, most OXO ice cube trays, including both their plastic Good Grips models and their silicone covered trays, are designed to be top-rack dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and convenient. Always check the specific product’s care instructions for confirmation.

Can I stack OXO ice trays when they are full of water?

Absolutely! One of the key benefits of OXO ice trays, especially those with secure lids (like the Good Grips sliding lid or the rigid covers on silicone trays), is their ability to be stacked even when full, without fear of spilling water. This feature helps maximize freezer space.

Do OXO silicone ice trays absorb freezer odors?

While OXO silicone trays come with covers to minimize odor absorption, silicone, in general, can be more porous than plastic. It’s recommended to wash silicone trays regularly and ensure the lid is properly sealed to prevent them from potentially picking up strong freezer smells over time.

What are the benefits of large ice cubes from OXO silicone trays?

Large ice cubes from OXO’s silicone trays melt much slower than standard cubes, meaning your drinks stay colder for longer with less dilution. This is especially beneficial for beverages like whiskey, cocktails, and cold brew coffee, where preserving the flavor profile is key.