The best non toxic ice cube trays deliver pure, clean ice and peace of mind for health-conscious homes. Choosing the right ones ensures your beverages and food aren’t tainted by harmful chemicals leached from plastics. Without careful selection, you might end up with trays that are difficult to clean, prone to cracking, or even worse, still release unwanted substances into your frozen creations.
Factors like material, design for easy release, and durability distinguish superior options. We’ve reviewed the top contenders to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen and well-being.
Explore our curated list of the best non toxic ice cube trays for refreshing, healthy ice.
The best non toxic ice cube trays prioritize food-grade materials like 304 stainless steel or BPA-free silicone, ensuring no chemical leaching into your ice. For a plastic-free option, stainless steel trays, such as the 18-cube lever-action model, offer durability and odor resistance. Silicone trays, like the OXO Good Grips Small Ice Cube Tray with Lid or the DOQAUS 4-tray set with bin, provide flexibility and easy release, often featuring lids to prevent odor absorption and allow for stacking.
Best Non Toxic Ice Cube Trays: Top Picks
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever (11″, 18 cubes), Best for: Durable, classic choice | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Ice Cube Trays Set of 2, Easy Release 15 Flexible Best for: Quick, fun shapes | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Ice Cube Tray with Lid Best for: Small, convenient cubes | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray Best for: Mess-free, portable | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray 2 Pack, 36 Large Cube Best for: Bulk, large cubes | Check Price |
How We Picked
We meticulously evaluated various ice cube trays to determine the best non toxic ice cube trays available in Our selection prioritized build quality, real-world performance, safety, and durability. We preferred designs like stainless steel trays for their inherent non-toxic nature, ruling out any with questionable plastic components.
Ease of use, such as features for easy release and spill prevention, was also crucial. Standout features like lids for odor protection and stackability contributed to our final assessments, ensuring a reliable and healthy ice-making experience.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Material Matters: Beyond BPA-Free
When seeking non-toxic ice cube trays, look beyond just BPA-free. While essential, it’s not the whole story. Food-grade silicone, like that found in the Airabc or W&P Cup Cubes trays, is a great option, offering flexibility and durability. However, for ultimate peace of mind and a truly plastic-free experience, consider stainless steel trays such as the 11 18-cube or the 2-pack 36-large cube models.
These are inherently non-toxic and resist odors, ensuring your ice tastes fresh.
The Lid-Life: Odor Protection and Stacking
A common pitfall with ice cube trays is freezer odor absorption. Many non-toxic options address this with lids. The OXO Good Grips Small Ice Cube Tray with Lid or the DOQAUS Ice Cube Tray with Lid and Bin utilize covers to seal in ice and keep out unwanted smells.
This feature is crucial for maintaining the pure taste of your water or beverages. Additionally, a well-designed lid, like those on the OXO Good Grips No-Spill or Joseph Joseph Flow trays, enables efficient stacking, maximizing freezer space without compromising ice quality.
1. Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever (11″, 18 cubes),
Best for: Stainless steel, lever release, 18 cubes.
Crafted from food-grade 304 stainless steel, this plastic-free ice cube tray produces 18 compact cubes that resist odor absorption. Its premium material ensures a pure taste for your beverages, and the durable construction promises long-term use without cracking.
The 11-inch tray includes a vintage lever handle for easy ice release, avoiding the need for twisting or banging. Each of the 18 individual cube compartments is designed for quick freezing and slow melting, minimizing dilution in your drinks and making solid cubes ideal for everything from cocktails to baby food.
Pros
- Plastic-free 304 stainless steel construction.
- Lever handle for simple, one-pull ice release.
- Produces 18 compact ice cubes per batch.
- Odorless ice due to non-absorbent material.
Cons
- Does not feature a lid for spill prevention during transport.
This stainless steel tray is for anyone seeking durable, odor-free ice. It’s perfect for crafting cocktails and preserving pure flavors in drinks.
2. Ice Cube Trays Set of 2, Easy Release 15 Flexible
Best for: Set of 2 silicone trays with lids, 15 cubes each.
This set of two BPA-free, food-grade silicone ice cube trays offers 15 flexible compartments per tray, allowing for easy twist-and-push ice release. The durable silicone is safe for direct food contact and compatible with various kitchen appliances.
Each of the two trays makes 15 perfectly shaped ice cubes, totaling 30 cubes per set. The high-quality silicone is flexible for easy removal and also microwave-safe. Secure lids are included to prevent spills and seal tightly, keeping ice fresh.
Pros
- Set includes two BPA-free silicone trays.
- Each tray makes 15 flexible ice cubes.
- Includes secure, tight-sealing lids.
- Dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator, and freezer safe.
Cons
- Silicone can sometimes retain odors if not cleaned thoroughly.
Ideal for those who want a practical set for everyday use. These trays are great for making a good quantity of ice for drinks and food prep.
3. OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Ice Cube Tray with Lid
Best for: Small silicone tray with lid, uniform cubes.
The OXO Good Grips Silicone Small Ice Cube Tray creates uniform, easy-to-remove ice cubes with the help of a supportive base and a secure lid. This single tray is designed for convenience in filling, transport, and storage, preventing freezer odor absorption.
This tray produces small, uniform ice cubes, perfect for a variety of beverages. The silicone tray is paired with a rigid base for stability during filling and transport, and a cover prevents unwanted odors from contaminating your ice. Multiple trays can be stacked for efficient freezer organization.
Pros
- Makes uniform, easy-to-remove ice cubes.
- Rigid base supports tray during filling and transport.
- Lid prevents freezer odor absorption.
- Stackable design for organized storage.
Cons
- Limited to a smaller ice cube size and quantity per tray.
This tray is best for individuals needing small, uniform ice cubes. It’s ideal for keeping drinks perfectly chilled without too much dilution.
4. OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray
Best for: No-spill design, stackable, rounded cubes.
The OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray features a sealed lid that allows for stacking and angled storage in the freezer. A comfortable handle ensures a firm grip, making filling and carrying efficient, while the innovative rounded shape releases cubes easily.
This tray produces evenly shaped, rounded ice cubes and boasts a capacity of 14 cubes. The removable silicone lid is top-rack dishwasher safe and ensures that ice does not absorb freezer odors or spill. Its no-spill design makes it ideal for upright or angled storage.
Pros
- No-spill sealed lid for easy stacking and angled storage.
- Produces 14 rounded ice cubes per tray.
- Comfortable handle for secure grip.
- Silicone lid is removable and dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Ice cube shape might not be ideal for all beverage types.
This tray is perfect for anyone who values a clean freezer and spill-free ice. It’s excellent for regular drink preparation and for ice storage.
5. Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray 2 Pack, 36 Large Cube
Best for: Set of 2 stainless steel trays, 18 large cubes each.
This set includes two durable, 304 stainless steel ice cube trays, each capable of producing 18 large cubes with an included divider system. Made from hygienic, odor-resistant material, these trays offer a reusable and eco-friendly alternative to plastic.
Each of the two trays features a design that yields 18 individual large ice cube molds, for a total of 36 large cubes per set. Constructed from high-quality 304 stainless steel, these trays are built for longevity and resist absorbing smells, ensuring your ice remains pure.
Pros
- Set of two durable 304 stainless steel trays.
- Each tray makes 18 large ice cubes.
- Hygienic and odor-resistant material.
- Includes dividers and tweezers for easy handling.
Cons
- Release mechanism relies on the lever and may require some manipulation.
This set is for those who prefer large, pure ice cubes and a sustainable kitchen. It’s excellent for batch ice making and for robust drink dilution control.
6. W&P Cup Cubes Silicone Freezer Tray with Lid, Charcoal, Makes
Best for: Silicone tray with lid, cup-shaped ice.
Featuring a unique cup shape, the W&P Cup Cubes tray is constructed from BPA-free plastic with a durable, LFGB-certified silicone lid and base. This combination ensures the tray is freezer, dishwasher, and microwave safe, offering versatility beyond just ice.
This tray produces distinct cup-shaped ice cubes, ideal for cocktails or larger beverages. The body is made of robust BPA-free plastic, while the lid and soft-touch bottom are premium food-grade silicone. It’s safe for use in the freezer and microwave, and also convenient for fridge and pantry storage.
Pros
- Unique cup-shaped ice cube design.
- Made with BPA-free plastic and LFGB silicone.
- Freezer, dishwasher, and microwave safe.
- Can be used for food storage in fridge and pantry.
Cons
- The cup shape may not fit all glass types efficiently.
This tray is for the cocktail enthusiast or anyone seeking uniquely shaped ice. It’s perfect for crafting distinctive drinks and for versatile food storage.
7. Joseph Joseph Flow – Easy-fill Ice-cube Tray with Lid, Stackable,
Best for: Easy-fill, stackable lid, 14 cubes.
The Joseph Joseph Flow ice cube tray features linked cavities for faster, splash-reduced filling and a lid that creates a fourth wall in each cavity for single cube release. Its stackable lid prevents spills and protects ice from freezer odors.
This tray set includes two units, each producing 14 ice cubes for a combined capacity of 28. The innovative design allows water to flow freely into linked cavities, expediting the filling process and reducing splashes. The lid seals tightly, enabling easy stacking and safeguarding ice from freezer contamination.
Pros
- Linked cavities for quick, splash-reduced filling.
- Lid facilitates single cube release.
- Produces 14 cubes per tray.
- Stackable lid prevents spills and odors.
Cons
- The linked cavity design might require a gentle twist to separate cubes.
This tray is designed for efficient ice making and organized storage. It’s ideal for busy individuals who want to quickly fill trays and keep their freezer tidy.
8. DOQAUS Ice Cube Tray with Lid and Bin – 4
Best for: Complete ice system — 4 trays, bin, scoop.
The DOQAUS Ice Cube Tray with Lid and Bin provides a complete ice system by integrating four silicone ice cube trays with a central storage container and a scoop. This organized setup keeps your kitchen tidy while ensuring ice is always ready for daily needs.
This set includes 4 individual silicone ice cube trays, each featuring an easy-pop design for effortless ice removal from its flexible bottom. The trays combine into a compact system with a bin that holds approximately 56 cubes, complete with a scoop for easy serving. Secure, non-spill lids are included for each tray.
Pros
- Complete ice system with 4 trays, bin, and scoop.
- Each tray makes ice cubes with easy-pop release.
- Large capacity storage bin (approx. 56 cubes).
- Non-spill lids prevent spills and odor contamination.
Cons
- The large quantity may be excessive for smaller households.
This system is perfect for families or anyone who uses a lot of ice. It offers a streamlined solution for ice making, storage, and serving.
9. Ice Cube Trays 4 Pack, Airabc Silicone with Removable Lid,
Best for: 4-pack silicone trays with lids, 14 cubes each.
Airabc silicone ice cube trays are made from premium, BPA-free food-grade silicone and PP material, ensuring they are non-toxic and safe for direct food contact. This 4-pack set, with 14 cubes per tray, offers durability and flexibility for long-term low-temperature storage.
This collection provides four ice cube trays, each producing 14 ice cubes for a total of 56 cubes per set. The soft and flexible silicone is sturdy enough to prevent breakage, even at low temperatures. Each tray comes with a high-quality, removable lid designed to prevent spills and ensure perfectly formed ice.
Pros
- Set of four BPA-free, food-grade silicone trays.
- Each tray makes 14 ice cubes (56 total).
- Durable and flexible material resists breaking.
- Removable lids prevent spills and maintain cube shape.
Cons
- The silicone material might require thorough washing to prevent flavor transfer.
This bulk pack is ideal for households that frequently need a large supply of ice. The included lids make them practical for everyday use and freezer organization.
10. OXO Good Grips Ice Cube Tray
Best for: Stackable, lid slides to control release, rounded cubes.
The OXO Good Grips Ice Cube Tray features a unique lid that slides to release any number of ice cubes as chosen, providing user control. Its sturdy lid also allows for efficient stacking and prevents ice from absorbing freezer odors.
This single ice cube tray produces 14 rounded ice cubes with an innovative shape that facilitates easy release. The BPA-free construction is dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning. The sturdy lid not only enables neat stacking in the freezer but also acts as a barrier against unwanted smells.
Pros
- Sliding lid allows selective ice cube release.
- Produces 14 rounded, easily released ice cubes.
- Sturdy lid enables efficient stacking.
- BPA-free and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Cons
- Only one tray is included in this purchase.
This tray is for anyone who appreciates controlled ice dispensing and stackable storage. It’s excellent for keeping ice fresh and accessible for drinks.
Stainless Steel vs. Silicone: The Real Ice Tray Trade-off
Prioritizing the physical integrity of your ice above all else dictates the Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever. Its robust 304 stainless steel construction means it will not crack under repeated use or temperature fluctuations, a common failure point for lesser materials. While silicone trays like the Ice Cube Trays Set of 2, Easy Release 15 Flexible offer flexibility and ease of release, they can degrade over time or warp, impacting the shape and uniformity of your cubes.
The Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray 2 Pack, 36 Large Cube, with its included tweezers, further emphasizes user control and longevity, positioning these metal options as the superior choice for consistent, long-term performance where ice shape and tray durability are paramount.
However, this durability comes at the cost of convenience and a certain messiness. Filling the Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever, especially its 18-cube iteration, can be a more involved process, requiring careful topping off of each individual cavity to prevent overflow. In contrast, trays designed for simpler filling, such as the Joseph Joseph Flow – Easy-fill Ice-cube Tray with Lid, utilize linked cavities to reduce splashing and speed up the process, making them far more amenable to quick, breezy use.
The OXO Good Grips No-Spill Ice Cube Tray and the DOQAUS Ice Cube Tray with Lid and Bin also address this filling challenge, incorporating sealed lids or integrated bins to manage water and prevent spills during transport to the freezer.
The distinction ultimately hinges on what you value most in your best non toxic ice cube trays. If pristine, unwavering cube formation and a tray that will outlast your freezer’s warranty are non-negotiable, then the premium food grade 304 stainless steel models are your clear path. They represent a singular investment in reliability.
For those who prioritize speed, minimal mess during filling, and a touch more forgiving release, the advanced silicone designs, particularly those from OXO Good Grips like the Silicone Small Ice Cube Tray with Lid or the OXO Good Grips Ice Cube Tray, offer a more user-friendly experience without compromising on non-toxic materials.
The W&P Cup Cubes Silicone Freezer Tray with Lid, Charcoal, embodies a hybrid approach, pairing a plastic body with a silicone lid and base, attempting to balance durability with flexibility, though it still relies on plastic for its primary structure. Buyers seeking an integrated solution for chilling and storage might lean towards the DOQAUS Ice Cube Tray with Lid and Bin. Ultimately, the decision between a rigid, enduring stainless steel model and a more adaptable silicone alternative boils down to your tolerance for filling precision versus your desire for a quick and clean ice-making process.
For those demanding absolute structural integrity and an ice tray built for generations, the Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray 2 Pack, 36 Large Cube is the definitive purchase.
What to Look For in Best Non Toxic Ice Cube Trays
Material composition
When selecting a non-toxic ice cube tray, prioritize materials tested free of harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, PVC, and lead. Food-grade silicone is an excellent choice, offering superior flexibility for easy ice release and excellent durability, resisting cracks and breaks even with frequent use. High-quality food-grade plastic trays are also a viable option, but ensure they are explicitly labeled as BPA-free and avoid those with a strong plastic odor, which can indicate off-gassing.
For most users, a BPA-free silicone tray provides the best balance of safety, durability, and user-friendliness for everyday ice production.
Tray design and features
Consider the design and features that best suit your ice needs. Trays producing a smaller number of larger cubes are ideal for cocktails or chilling beverages where you want slow dilution, while trays with an abundance of smaller cubes are perfect for everyday water or quickly cooling down drinks. Look for trays with integrated lids; these are essential for preventing spills during transport to the freezer and for sealing out unwanted freezer odors, ensuring your ice stays fresh and clean.
An easy-release mechanism, often built into flexible silicone designs, will save you frustration during ice removal, making silicone trays with a simple push-through design the clear winner for convenience.
Capacity and usage
Evaluate the tray’s capacity and how it fits your lifestyle and freezer space. For households that consume a lot of ice, trays that yield a larger total ice volume per batch are most efficient, reducing the frequency of refilling. If you enjoy a variety of beverages, trays with different cube sizes can be beneficial, though standard cube sizes are generally versatile.
Measure your available freezer shelf space before purchasing to ensure a good fit. Confirm if the tray is deemed dishwasher safe for ultimate convenience; however, many silicone trays are also exceptionally easy to clean by hand, making them suitable for those without a dishwasher.
For optimal convenience and versatility, prioritize dishwasher-safe silicone trays with a generous batch capacity.
Which Should You Choose?
- If you prioritize a completely plastic-free and durable option for quick ice release, look for stainless steel trays with a lever mechanism and a larger cube count.
- If you prefer flexibility and ease of use for everyday ice, opt for BPA-free silicone trays that are stackable and come with a lid to prevent odor absorption.
- If you want to minimize freezer clutter and have a complete ice dispensing system, consider silicone trays that come with a dedicated storage bin and scoop.
- If you aim for fast and mess-free filling, especially for single cubes, choose trays with innovative filling systems designed to reduce splashing and allow for easy separation.
Quick Best Non Toxic Ice Cube Trays Buying Checklist
- BPA-Free Materials: Ensure the trays are made from BPA-free silicone or other food-grade, non-toxic plastics.
- Phthalate-Free Construction: Verify that the trays are free from phthalates, which can leach into your ice.
- Odor Resistance: Look for trays designed to prevent absorbing freezer odors, keeping your ice fresh.
- Easy Ice Release: Choose trays with flexible bases that make popping out ice cubes simple and without breakage.
- Lid Inclusion: Opt for trays with lids to prevent spills and cross-contamination during freezing.
- Dishwasher Safe: Select trays that are safe for dishwasher cleaning to ensure convenience and thorough sanitization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Are Silicone Ice Cube Trays Considered Non-Toxic?
Silicone ice cube trays are often considered non-toxic because high-quality food-grade silicone is generally free from BPA, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals. This material is inert, meaning it doesn’t readily leach substances into food or beverages, ensuring safer frozen cubes.
What Makes A Plastic Ice Cube Tray Non-Toxic?
Non-toxic plastic ice cube trays are typically made from BPA-free and phthalate-free plastics, such as polypropylene. These materials are chosen for their safety and stability, ensuring they do not release harmful compounds into the ice during the freezing process.
How Do You Ensure Ice Cubes Don’T Absorb Freezer Odors?
To prevent ice cubes from absorbing freezer odors, it’s best to use non-toxic ice cube trays with tight-fitting lids. These lids create a barrier, protecting the water and resulting ice from lingering smells of other foods stored in your freezer.
Are Ice Cube Trays With Lids Better For Health?
Ice cube trays with lids can contribute to healthier ice by preventing contamination from other freezer items and spills. The lid acts as a barrier, keeping airborne particles and potential contaminants away from your drinking ice.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Flexible Silicone Ice Cube Trays?
Flexible silicone ice cube trays offer the benefit of easy ice removal, as the material is pliable and can be pushed from the bottom. This non-toxic material is also durable, odor-resistant, and often dishwasher-safe, simplifying both usage and cleaning.
Final Words
Investing in the best non toxic ice cube trays ensures purity and safety for your beverages. These trays offer peace of mind, free from harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates. Embrace healthier hydration and elevate your everyday drinks with a reliable, non-toxic ice cube tray solution.
