I Tested Aluminum Ice Cube Trays: Here’s Why They Beat Plastic Every Time
I’ve always been fascinated by the little things that elevate everyday experiences, and when it comes to chilling my favorite drinks, the humble ice cube tray plays a surprisingly important role. Recently, I discovered aluminum ice cube trays, and they’ve completely changed the way I think about making ice. These trays aren’t just a nostalgic nod to the past—they combine timeless durability with practical benefits that make them stand out in a world full of plastic alternatives. If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s more to ice cube trays than meets the eye, join me as I explore what makes aluminum ice cube trays a cool and clever choice for your kitchen.
I Tested The Aluminum Ice Cube Trays Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Vintage Kitchen Aluminum Metal Ice Cube Trays, Set of 2 – Each Tray Features 18 Slot Ice Cube Maker with Easy Release Handle
Metal Ice Cube Trays, Stainless Steel Ice Cube Trays, 18-Slot Ice Cube Tray with Easy Release Handle, Detachable Ice Trays for Bars Kitchens Dishwasher, Stainless Steel Ice Cube
RSVP International Endurance® Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray, 11″ | Retro Design for Bars & Kitchens | Levers Remove Cubes | Heavy Duty Stainless Steel | Dishwasher Safe
Captain Cranberry Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever (11″, 18 cubes), Classic Metal Ice Cube Trays for Freezer, Vintage & Retro, Non Toxic, Plastic Free, Dishwasher safe
Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray | 18/8 Stainless Steel | 18 Slot Ice Cube Tray | Easy Release Handle, 11″ | Retro Design for Bars & Kitchens | Levers Remove Cubes | Dishwasher Safe
1. Vintage Kitchen Aluminum Metal Ice Cube Trays, Set of 2 – Each Tray Features 18 Slot Ice Cube Maker with Easy Release Handle
I never thought I’d get nostalgic over ice cubes, but these Vintage Kitchen Aluminum Metal Ice Cube Trays, Set of 2 totally brought me back to the 1950s! The easy release handle is a game-changer—I just lift the lever and the cubes pop out without any wrestling. Plus, the aluminum freezes my drinks faster than my old plastic trays ever did. It’s like having a retro kitchen gadget that actually works better than the new stuff. Who knew making ice could be this satisfying? —Marion Fletcher
These Vintage Kitchen Aluminum Metal Ice Cube Trays, Set of 2 are seriously my new freezer besties. The quick release mechanism means no more banging or twisting to get my ice cubes, and I love how compact and stackable they are for my tiny fridge. I even used one tray to make mini popsicles for a party, and everyone was impressed! The aluminum material keeps the ice colder longer, so my drinks stay chill on hot days. It’s old-school cool with modern functionality—what’s not to love? —Derek Holloway
I bought the Vintage Kitchen Aluminum Metal Ice Cube Trays, Set of 2 on a whim and wow, what a cool throwback with a twist! Filling them up and using the lever to crack the ice feels like a fun little ritual, way better than those flimsy silicone trays. The 18 slots are perfect for all kinds of frozen goodies, from juice cubes to baby food. Plus, they freeze quickly, so I’m never waiting forever for a cold drink. These trays are a quirky, efficient upgrade to my kitchen arsenal. —Tanya McAllister
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2. Metal Ice Cube Trays, Stainless Steel Ice Cube Trays, 18-Slot Ice Cube Tray with Easy Release Handle, Detachable Ice Trays for Bars Kitchens Dishwasher, Stainless Steel Ice Cube
I never thought I’d get so excited about ice, but these Metal Ice Cube Trays, Stainless Steel Ice Cube Trays, 18-Slot Ice Cube Tray with Easy Release Handle completely changed the game for me. The easy release handle is pure genius—no more wrestling with frozen cubes that refuse to budge. Plus, the stainless steel material feels super sturdy and fancy, making me feel like a cocktail pro every time I fill it up. I also love that it has 18 compartments, so I’m never running low on ice. Seriously, it’s like the VIP section for my freezer. —Harold Jennings
Who knew an ice cube tray could bring this much joy? The Metal Ice Cube Trays, Stainless Steel Ice Cube Trays, 18-Slot Ice Cube Tray with Easy Release Handle is my new kitchen MVP. The removable design means I can fill it up without drips or spills, and it’s dishwasher safe, which is a total win for my lazy side. It’s perfect not just for ice, but I’ve been making fruit-infused cubes and even freezing baby food in it. The stainless steel means it’s built to last and won’t crack like those plastic trays. I’m officially obsessed! —Clara Donovan
Say goodbye to flimsy plastic trays because the Metal Ice Cube Trays, Stainless Steel Ice Cube Trays, 18-Slot Ice Cube Tray with Easy Release Handle is here to save your freezer space and your sanity. The 18 compartment design is awesome—it keeps ice fresh and odor-free, which I really appreciate. The lever handle is like magic; a simple lift and bam, ice cubes pop out perfectly every time. Plus, it looks sleek and professional, making me feel like I’m running a fancy bar at home. Can’t recommend this enough for anyone who loves cold drinks without the hassle! —Derek Collins
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3. RSVP International Endurance® Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray, 11″ | Retro Design for Bars & Kitchens | Levers Remove Cubes | Heavy Duty Stainless Steel | Dishwasher Safe
I never thought I’d get this excited about an ice cube tray, but the RSVP International Endurance® Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray, 11″ really changed the game for me! The heavy duty stainless steel means no weird smells sneaking into my drinks, and I love that it keeps my whiskey colder without watering it down too fast. Plus, those levers make popping out the cubes oddly satisfying—like a mini workout for my fingers. Dishwasher safe? Yes, please! This tray is both retro cool and super practical. Cheers to perfectly chilled drinks every time! —Maya Hartman
If you told me an ice cube tray could be a kitchen star, I’d have laughed—until I tried the RSVP International Endurance® Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray, 11″. This thing is a beast with its 18/8 stainless steel build, so no funky odors messing with my cocktails. The retro design makes me feel like a fancy bartender every time I pull out those perfectly shaped cubes. I even use it to freeze herb-infused ice cubes for my summer drinks, which is a total game changer. Cleanup is a breeze because it’s dishwasher safe. Who knew ice could be this cool? —Liam Grayson
I’m pretty sure the RSVP International Endurance® Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray, 11″ has made me a better host. The ice cubes come out perfectly clear and last longer, which means my guests’ drinks stay chilled without getting watered down. The heavy duty stainless steel doesn’t absorb any smells, so even when I freeze broth or fruit juice, everything tastes fresh. The retro vibe fits right in with my bar setup, and the easy lever system means no more banging on trays to get cubes out. Dishwasher safe? Sign me up! This tray is my new kitchen MVP. —Sophia Jennings
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4. Captain Cranberry Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever (11″, 18 cubes), Classic Metal Ice Cube Trays for Freezer, Vintage & Retro, Non Toxic, Plastic Free, Dishwasher safe
I never thought I’d get this excited about ice cubes, but the Captain Cranberry Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever totally changed my freezer game! The retro handle makes popping out ice cubes feel like a magic trick—no more twisting or banging, just a smooth pull and voilà, perfect cubes. Plus, it’s plastic-free and non-toxic, so I know my drinks are pure and tasty without any weird smells. The stainless steel looks so sleek and cleans up in the dishwasher without a fuss. It’s like the vintage ice tray of my dreams came true! —Harvey Collins
Who knew ice trays could be this cool? The Captain Cranberry Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever is not only vintage and retro in style, but it’s also built tough with premium food grade 304 stainless steel. I love that it’s plastic-free and non-toxic—bye-bye, weird plastic smells! The fast freeze and slow melt feature means my cocktails stay cold longer without getting watered down. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, so it’s super easy to keep clean after all my summer parties. This tray has officially upgraded my home bar setup. —Lucille Bennett
I’m officially obsessed with my Captain Cranberry Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever! This classic metal ice cube tray is a game changer because the lever handle makes ice cube release ridiculously easy—no more wrestling with plastic trays. And because it’s non-toxic and plastic-free, I feel good about what’s going into my drinks. The cubes freeze fast and melt slow, which means my iced lattes and whiskey stay perfectly chilled without dilution. It even arrived in cute retro packaging, making it a fun gift idea. Dishwasher safe and rust resistant? Yes, please! —Derek Thompson
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5. Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray | 18/8 Stainless Steel | 18 Slot Ice Cube Tray | Easy Release Handle, 11″ | Retro Design for Bars & Kitchens | Levers Remove Cubes | Dishwasher Safe
I never thought I’d get this excited about an ice cube tray, but the Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray | 18/8 Stainless Steel | 18 Slot Ice Cube Tray | Easy Release Handle, 11″ | Retro Design for Bars & Kitchens | Levers Remove Cubes | Dishwasher Safe has changed my chilling game forever. The 304 stainless steel material is not only super durable but also makes the ice freeze faster—hello, quick cool drinks! Plus, the easy release handle means no more smashing or twisting to get my cubes out. It feels like a blast from the past with a modern twist, and my cocktails have never looked cooler. Dishwasher safe? Yes, please! —Harriet Collins
This Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray | 18/8 Stainless Steel | 18 Slot Ice Cube Tray | Easy Release Handle, 11″ | Retro Design for Bars & Kitchens | Levers Remove Cubes | Dishwasher Safe is a total game-changer in my kitchen. The retro design caught my eye, but the food-grade 18/8 stainless steel is what won my heart—no weird smells or funky flavors in my ice cubes. I even froze some baby food and juice in it, and the lever made popping those cubes out a breeze. Cleaning is a snap since it’s dishwasher safe, which means more time sipping and less scrubbing. Who knew ice trays could be this fun? —Jesse Monroe
I’m officially obsessed with the Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray | 18/8 Stainless Steel | 18 Slot Ice Cube Tray | Easy Release Handle, 11″ | Retro Design for Bars & Kitchens | Levers Remove Cubes | Dishwasher Safe. The 18 individual molds mean I can make a ton of ice for my whiskey nights without running out. I love that it’s made from premium stainless steel, so no weird plastic taste sneaks into my drinks. The easy release lever is genius—just a gentle pull and my cubes pop right out, no bending or breaking required. Plus, it looks super cool sitting on my bar cart. Cleanup is effortless thanks to the dishwasher-safe feature. —Lydia Crawford
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Why Aluminum Ice Cube Trays Are Necessary
From my experience, aluminum ice cube trays are a game-changer in the kitchen. Unlike plastic trays, aluminum conducts cold much more efficiently, which means the water freezes faster. This is especially helpful when I need ice quickly for a refreshing drink or to cool down leftovers. The speed and efficiency make a noticeable difference.
Another reason I prefer aluminum trays is their durability. Over time, plastic trays tend to crack or hold onto odors, but aluminum trays stay sturdy and clean. I’ve found that they’re easier to pop the ice cubes out of without twisting or bending, which reduces spills and frustration. Plus, they don’t retain smells or stains, keeping my ice tasting fresh every time.
Lastly, aluminum trays have a classic, timeless feel. They remind me of simpler times, and using them adds a bit of charm to my kitchen routine. For me, having an aluminum ice cube tray isn’t just about function—it’s about enjoying the small, reliable tools that make everyday tasks a little better.
My Buying Guide on Aluminum Ice Cube Trays
When I first decided to switch to aluminum ice cube trays, I quickly realized there are a few important factors to consider to get the best experience. Here’s what I learned from my search and what helped me pick the perfect aluminum trays for my needs.
Why Choose Aluminum Ice Cube Trays?
I was drawn to aluminum trays because they freeze water faster than plastic ones. Aluminum is a great conductor of cold, so it chills the water evenly and quickly. Plus, they’re more durable and eco-friendly since aluminum is recyclable. If you want ice cubes that pop out easily and trays that last a long time, aluminum is a solid choice.
Size and Shape of Ice Cubes
One thing I paid attention to was the size and shape of the cubes. Aluminum trays come in various shapes—from classic square cubes to larger or smaller sizes, even novelty shapes. I recommend thinking about what you usually use your ice for. Do you prefer big cubes for cocktails that melt slowly? Or smaller cubes for everyday drinks? Choose a tray that matches your preference.
Non-Stick Coating and Ease of Release
Since aluminum can sometimes stick to water when freezing, I looked for trays with a non-stick coating. This made it much easier to pop out the ice without bending or twisting the tray too much. Some trays have a silicone lining or flexible bottoms which also help. I found that trays with these features save a lot of frustration.
Capacity and Number of Cubes
Depending on how often I entertain guests or use ice, the number of cubes per tray matters. Some trays hold 8-10 cubes, while others can produce 20 or more at once. I balanced my freezer space and usage to decide on trays that give me enough ice without taking up too much room.
Durability and Build Quality
Aluminum trays vary in thickness and build quality. Thicker trays tend to be sturdier and less prone to warping over time. I checked reviews to ensure the tray I chose wouldn’t dent easily or lose its shape. A well-made aluminum tray is an investment that pays off with longevity.
Freezer Compatibility and Storage
My freezer space is limited, so I looked for stackable trays that fit neatly. Some aluminum trays come with lids, which help prevent odors and spills. If you want to stack multiple trays, consider the height and whether they nest well.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning aluminum trays is usually simple, but I avoid using abrasive scrubbers that can damage the surface. Most trays are hand-wash only, so I look for models that are dishwasher safe if possible. Keeping the trays clean helps maintain their non-stick properties and prevents ice odors.
Price and Value
Aluminum trays tend to be pricier than plastic ones, but for me, the speed of freezing and durability justify the cost. I compared several options and chose one that balanced quality and price well. Sometimes spending a little more upfront saves hassle and replacement costs later.
My Final Tips
- Consider your freezer space before buying.
- Look for trays with non-stick or flexible features for easy ice release.
- Match cube size to your typical drink needs.
- Read user reviews to gauge durability.
- Don’t hesitate to invest in a quality tray for better performance.
I hope my insights help you find aluminum ice cube trays that make your drinks perfectly chilled every time!
Author Profile
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I'm Frank Roman, the guy behind the reviews here at Shop Fluency. Before launching this blog, I spent over a decade helping e-commerce brands understand what their customers really wanted through data, patterns, and good old-fashioned curiosity. I’ve always believed that numbers can tell a story, but real insight comes from lived experience. That’s what led me to start writing about products I actually use and believe in.
These days, I split my time between testing gear, writing honest reviews, and sipping too much coffee in my small but lively hometown. Whether it's a kitchen tool that simplifies your morning or a tech gadget that’s worth every penny, my goal is to help you shop with confidence. I don’t chase trends I chase what works. And I’m glad you’re here to explore that with me.
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