Ice buckets are essential for any party or gathering where you want to keep your drinks chilled. They come in many shapes and sizes, from small tabletop models to large freestanding ones. When looking for the best ice bucket, there are a few things to consider.
The first thing to think about is the size of the ice bucket. If you’re hosting a small gathering, a tabletop model may be sufficient. However, if you’re hosting a larger event, you’ll want a larger ice bucket that can hold plenty of ice. Another consideration is the material of the ice bucket. Some ice buckets are made of plastic, while others are made of metal or even wood. The material you choose will depend on your personal preference and the overall aesthetic of your party.
When choosing an ice bucket, it’s also important to consider the insulation. A well-insulated ice bucket will keep your ice from melting too quickly, allowing you to enjoy your drinks longer. Finally, you’ll want to think about the overall design of the ice bucket. Some ice buckets come with lids to keep the ice from spilling, while others have built-in handles for easy transport.
We spent hours researching and testing ten different ice buckets to identify the ones that keep your drinks chilled and add a touch of class to your party.
Best Ice Buckets
We’ve scoured the internet and tested out various ice buckets to bring you our top picks for the best ice buckets on the market. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to keep your drinks cool, a good ice bucket is a must-have accessory. Our list includes a range of options, from budget-friendly to high-end, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and budget. Read on to discover our top picks for the best ice buckets.
Tiken 3L Double-Wall Vacuum Insulated Ice Bucket with Lid & Tong Stainless Steel Champagne Buckets for Cocktail Bar, Parties & Outdoor Silver
If you’re looking for a durable and reliable ice bucket that keeps your drinks cold for hours, the Tiken 3L Double-Wall Vacuum Insulated Ice Bucket is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The vacuum-insulated design keeps ice and other beverages colder for longer periods.
- The stainless steel construction ensures durability and long-lasting service.
- The innovative design includes a removable strainer, hooked ice tong, and knob-handled lid for user convenience.
Cons
- The ice bucket’s capacity may be too small for larger gatherings.
- The stainless steel may show fingerprints and require frequent cleaning.
- The price point may be higher than some other ice bucket options.
We recently used the Tiken ice bucket for a small gathering, and it exceeded our expectations. The double-walled and vacuum-insulated design kept the ice frozen for hours, and the outside of the bucket stayed dry and clean. The stainless steel construction felt sturdy and reliable, and the seamless design made it easy to clean.
The innovative design features, such as the sharp-toothed ice tong and removable strainer, made it easy to transfer ice cubes to drinks without messy slips and splatters. The hooked ice tong securely hooked onto the bucket when not in use, and the knob-handled lid made it effortless to open and put back in place.
The 3-liter capacity was perfect for our small gathering, but it may be too small for larger parties. Additionally, the stainless steel construction may show fingerprints and require frequent cleaning, but this is a minor issue compared to the overall durability and reliability of the product.
Overall, we highly recommend the Tiken 3L Double-Wall Vacuum Insulated Ice Bucket for anyone looking for a durable and reliable ice bucket that keeps drinks cold for hours. It’s a must-have for entertaining, and the sleek design makes it an excellent gift for housewarmings, birthdays, Christmases, and weddings.
OXO Good Grips Double Wall Ice Bucket with Tongs and Garnish Tray
We highly recommend the OXO Good Grips Double Wall Ice Bucket with Tongs and Garnish Tray for anyone looking for a reliable and convenient ice bucket.
Pros
- The removable garnish tray keeps garnishes chilled and protected, making it perfect for parties or events.
- The convenient carrying handle stays out of the way when not in use, making it easy to transport.
- The internal reservoir keeps meltwater away from cubes, ensuring that your ice stays cold for longer.
Cons
- The ice bucket may be too small for larger events or gatherings.
- The plastic construction may not be as durable as other materials.
- The clear lid may become cloudy over time with regular use.
We found that the OXO ice bucket was easy to use and kept our ice cold for hours. The nylon tongs with sharp teeth easily scoop and grab ice, and they hang conveniently from either side of the bucket for storage. The hinged lid stays attached to the bucket and is clear, making it easy to see how much ice is left.
The removable garnish tray is a great feature that keeps garnishes chilled and protected, and it’s easy to remove when you need to refill the bucket with ice. The carrying handle is also convenient and stays out of the way when not in use.
Overall, the OXO Good Grips Double Wall Ice Bucket with Tongs and Garnish Tray is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and convenient ice bucket.
JoyJolt Metal Double Wall Ice Bucket with Lid, Ice Tongs and Strainer
If you’re looking for a durable and stylish ice bucket that keeps your drinks ice cold, then the JoyJolt Metal Double Wall Ice Bucket with Lid, Ice Tongs and Strainer is a great option.
Pros
- The double wall insulation keeps drinks ice cold for longer.
- The strainer base at the bottom prevents melted ice from warming the rest of the cubes.
- The bucket is freezer and fridge safe and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Cons
- The ice tongs are a bit flimsy and may not be able to pick up larger ice cubes.
- The swinging handle may be difficult to grip when the bucket is full of ice.
- The lid may not be completely airtight and could leak if the bucket is turned over.
We recently used the JoyJolt ice bucket at a party and were impressed with how well it kept our drinks cold throughout the night. The double wall insulation and strainer base really helped to slow down the melting of the ice, which meant that our drinks stayed ice cold until the very end.
We also appreciated how easy it was to use and clean. The freezer and fridge safe feature allowed us to keep the bucket in the freezer until we were ready to use it, and then simply pop it in the dishwasher for easy cleaning after the party was over.
One thing to note is that the ice tongs are a bit flimsy and may not be able to pick up larger ice cubes. Additionally, the swinging handle may be difficult to grip when the bucket is full of ice. Finally, the lid may not be completely airtight and could leak if the bucket is turned over.
Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish and functional ice bucket that keeps your drinks cold, the JoyJolt Metal Double Wall Ice Bucket with Lid, Ice Tongs and Strainer is a great option.
S’well Stainless Steel Ice Bucket with Tongs
If you’re looking for a stylish and functional ice bucket for your bar cart, the S’well Stainless Steel Ice Bucket with Tongs is a great choice.
Pros
- The triple-layered and vacuum-insulated construction keeps ice cold for longer.
- The stainless steel cover and easy-to-use tongs add a sophisticated touch to your bar cart.
- The condensation-free grip won’t sweat on your wooden table or countertop without a coaster.
Cons
- The 68oz capacity may not be enough for larger gatherings.
- The ice tongs are small and can only pick up small cubes at a time.
- The teakwood print is not real wood and may not be to everyone’s taste.
We love the S’well Stainless Steel Ice Bucket with Tongs for its stylish design and superior functionality. The triple-layered insulation keeps ice colder for longer, making it perfect for entertaining guests. The stainless steel cover and easy-to-use tongs add a sophisticated touch to your bar cart, while the condensation-free grip ensures that your table or countertop stays dry.
However, the 68oz capacity may not be enough for larger gatherings, and the ice tongs are small and can only pick up small cubes at a time. Additionally, the teakwood print is not real wood and may not be to everyone’s taste.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality and stylish ice bucket for your bar cart, the S’well Stainless Steel Ice Bucket with Tongs is a great choice.
Oggi Insulated Ice Bucket
We highly recommend the Oggi Insulated Ice Bucket for those who want to keep their ice frozen and clean at social gatherings while looking sleek and stylish indoors or outdoors.
Pros
- The double-wall insulated technology keeps ice frozen longer, and the acrylic lid seals the temperature in for maximum insulation.
- The clear acrylic flip-top lid gives maximum visibility to the contents while keeping your ice frozen and clean, avoiding contamination.
- The ice bucket is convenient and handy, including a comfortable carry handle and large stainless steel ice scoop with a drip-proof holder to keep surfaces dry.
Cons
- The handles are made of curved metal, which is not as sturdy as expected.
- The price may be higher than expected for an ice bucket.
- The capacity is 4 quarts / 3.8 liters, which may not be enough for larger parties.
We recently used the Oggi Insulated Ice Bucket for a cocktail party with friends, and it worked perfectly. The ice stayed frozen for hours, and the clear acrylic flip-top lid made it easy to see if a refill was needed. The comfortable carry handle and large stainless steel ice scoop with a drip-proof holder made it easy to fill up glasses with ease. It was also easy to clean and care for, just wash with soap and water, hand washing recommended.
In conclusion, the Oggi Insulated Ice Bucket is a great addition to any party, keeping your ice cool and clean while looking sleek and stylish. It is convenient and handy, including a comfortable carry handle and large stainless steel ice scoop with a drip-proof holder to keep surfaces dry.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best ice bucket, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Size and Capacity
Consider how much ice you will need to store at once. If you frequently entertain large groups, you may want to opt for a larger bucket with a higher capacity. However, if you only need to chill a few drinks at a time, a smaller bucket may suffice.
Material
Ice buckets can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and glass. Plastic buckets are lightweight and durable, while metal buckets may be more stylish and offer better insulation. Glass buckets can be elegant, but they may not be as practical for outdoor use.
Insulation
If you plan to use your ice bucket for extended periods of time, insulation is an important factor to consider. Look for buckets with thick walls or double-walled construction to help keep your ice frozen for longer.
Design
Ice buckets come in a variety of designs, from simple and classic to more elaborate and decorative. Consider the style of your home and the occasion for which you will be using the bucket when selecting a design.
Accessories
Some ice buckets come with additional accessories, such as tongs or lids. These can be helpful for keeping your ice clean and preventing it from melting too quickly.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best ice bucket for your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material for an ice bucket?
When it comes to material, stainless steel is the most durable and long-lasting option. It is also easy to clean and maintain. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option, plastic and acrylic ice buckets are also great choices.
How long will ice last in an ice bucket?
The length of time that ice will last in an ice bucket depends on a few factors, such as the size of the ice bucket and the ambient temperature. However, a good insulated ice bucket can keep ice frozen for several hours.
Does Yeti have an ice bucket?
Yes, Yeti does have an ice bucket. The Yeti Tank is a highly durable and well-insulated ice bucket that can hold up to 40 pounds of ice.
Does an ice bucket need a lid?
While a lid is not necessary, it can help to keep the ice from melting too quickly. An insulated lid can also help to keep the ice colder for longer.
What are the features of a good outdoor ice bucket?
A good outdoor ice bucket should be durable, weather-resistant, and able to keep ice frozen for several hours. It should also have a large enough capacity to hold plenty of ice.
What are the benefits of using an insulated ice bucket for parties?
Using an insulated ice bucket for parties can help to keep the ice frozen for longer, reducing the need for frequent refills. It can also help to prevent the ice from melting and watering down drinks, ensuring that they stay cold and refreshing.
