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Is Your Ice Smelling Bad? Discover How to Keep It Fresh This Summer!

2025-07-01

Author: Jacob

As the summer sun blazes, there’s nothing like a refreshing drink with a mountain of ice to keep you cool. But what happens when your ice cubes start to smell funky?

While you may enjoy making your own ice at home or purchasing bags from the store, stale and odorous ice can ruin your summertime sips. Think of flavors resembling old leftovers—yuck!

Why Ice Can Smell Bad

According to Dan Wroclawski from Consumer Reports, this is a common headache during the hotter months. The culprit? Ice that’s been sitting too long in your ice maker or bin—especially in older refrigerators with a single evaporator. When your ice sits for weeks, it easily absorbs unpleasant odors from the fridge, leading to that dreaded stinky ice.

"Stinky ice is no fun. It’s really just a great way to ruin a nice drink," Wroclawski cautions.

Fresh Start: Toss and Clean!

If you notice a smell, it's time to act! Dump the old ice immediately—if some of it has a funky odor, it’s likely all of it does. Clean the ice bin thoroughly to remove any residual smells. If it’s not dishwasher safe, wash it with warm water and baking soda, a natural deodorizer that does wonders.

Smart Tips for Keeping Ice Fresh

To prevent future odor disasters, here are a few expert tips: if you’re using ice trays, steer clear of silicone ones—they tend to absorb odors from the fridge. Instead, opt for plastic trays from Rubbermaid or Oxo’s lidded options.

For those looking to invest in an ice maker, GE’s Opal 2.0 Stainless Steel model comes highly recommended for its speed and quiet operation, albeit at a higher price.

On a budget? Newair’s countertop nugget-maker is a more economical choice with decent ratings. If bullet ice is what you crave, the Vivohome Electric Portable Icemaker might be right up your alley.

Maintain and Enjoy!

Remember, whether you’re using an ice maker or trays, regular cleaning is essential to keeping mold and mildew at bay. Aim to wash them at least once a month to keep your ice fresh and free from any unwanted smells.

With these tips in hand, you're ready to enjoy a summer filled with refreshing, flavorful drinks—without the worry of stinky ice ruining your day!