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Adulting is all about growing up, being responsible, and having a few important things on hand in case you feel the need to have an impromptu social gathering or even a large dinner party. One of those all-important essentials that always comes in handy is a great ice bucket.
Below is an assortment of buckets that we feel will make a statement at any type of gathering you may have, be it big or small. They come in a variety of sizes, classic and chic color options, and have multiple functions that will help keep your party going all night long.
These quality ice buckets of 2024 all come with a matching pair of tongs, have double insulated walls that work to keep the ice and your drinks extra cold and have the ability to prevent outside condensation to ensure your tables are free from unsightly water rings. Also included are removable strainers to prevent the ice from fusing together and one option even comes with a removable garnish tray to keep the fruits cool and fresh.
Comparing the Premier Ice Bucket of 2024
Wenegg Ice Bucket — Best Overall
Wenegg’s Ice Bucket is a double-walled, stainless steel bucket that is designed to keep ice frozen for long periods of time. A double-wall with a securing lid effectively insulates the ice while a strainer separates the ice cubes from the melted water to keep longer-lasting ice and to prevent the cubes from fusing together. Not only will this bucket keep your ice colder, but it is also designed to chill your wine, beer, or champagne in only two minutes. Easy to clean and safe to use, this 3-liter ice bucket also comes with a strainer plate, tongs, and a user guide.
Pros
- This bucket has a lifetime guarantee and will be replaced or refunded if needed
Cons
- The lid is not double-walled
Oggi Ice Bucket — Runner Up
The Ice Bucket by Oggi is a more contemporary style bucket with an acrylic flip top and generous 4-quart capacity. Made from stainless steel and wrapped with specially designed materials to keep the contents chilled, this ice bucket also reduces the build-up of condensation on the outside, helping keep surfaces dry. This modern ice bucket also includes a stainless steel ice scoop that lets you serve plenty of ice on the go and when done, the built-in storage compartment keeps it handy for the next drink.
Pros
- A carrying handle makes it easy to carry back to the refrigerator for refills
Cons
- The lid is not removable
FineDine Insulated Ice Bucket — Honorable Mention
The FineDine Insulated Ice Bucket is a must-have accessory for any home bar. Crafted with double walls, this ice bucket can keep ice frozen for many hours. Moreover, it is perfect for picnics, barbecues, pool parties, and beach outings and adds a gorgeous effect to home bars, blending in with standard bar décors. This bucket is paired with a modern wooden lid that adds a sophisticated and classy look and features a built-in nook to store the tong included in the package. Plus, the convenient carry handle makes it easy to take it with you wherever needed.
Pros
- Sleek design with stainless steel handle
Cons
- No gasket on the lid to better seal the bucket
OXO Good Grips Ice Bucket — Most Notable
The Ice Bucket Set by OXO is a slightly more enhanced version of our other options as it comes with a removable garnish tray in addition to the usual accessories. This removable tray rests inside the bucket to keep your limes, lemons and any other preferred drink garnishes chilled and protected. This ice bucket is also double-walled to keep your ice cool longer and a convenient carrying handle stays out of the way when not in use.
Pros
- Also included are nylon tongs with sharp teeth that hang from either side of the bucket for convenient storage
Cons
- Handwash only
Malmo Ice Bucket — Contender
Malmo’s Ice Bucket is a chic and stylish way to upgrade your current bucket or a great buy if you don’t already own one. Made from quality stainless steel, this ice bucket has the same amenities as our other options including a large capacity making it great for parties, and large or small gatherings alike, and double-walled construction that keeps the ice frozen longer. This copper ice bucket also has an insulated carry handle for convenient carrying and comes with an ice tong which has three teeth on the inside to help you easily grab ice. As a bonus, the tong can be easily hung inside the lid for space-saving storage.
Pros
- An included insulation grip prevents any wetness caused by the conversion of a vapor to a liquid
Cons
- This is not dishwasher safe
Bellemain Stainless Steel Ice Bucket — Also Consider
Bellemain’s Ice Bucket is another 3-liter option that is perfect for any party, any table, and is sized for convenience. Constructed with high-quality stainless steel and engineering, this ice bucket will prevent rusting and condensation from forming on the outside, leaving no unsightly rings of moisture on the bottom that can potentially damage floors and tables. Also included are stainless steel ice tongs so you can easily transfer cubes to cocktails and other iced drinks with no mess.
Pros
- Quick grab handles make this ice bucket easy to transport
Cons
- This is not dishwasher safe
MKRSD Ice Bucket — Editor's Pick
For a more classic option, the ice bucket by MKRSD is a great choice. This 2.8-liter bucket is double-walled to keep the ice colder while preventing outer condensation and wet rings all over the place. Made from durable and high-quality stainless steel, this bucket is also rust and damage-proof and has anti-fingerprint properties to keep your bucket always looking impeccable and ready for entertaining. Other accessories include a sturdy handle, tongs, and an ice clip for easy carrying.
Pros
- This ice bucket is food-safe, easy to maintain and dishwasher safe
Cons
- There is no strainer included
Marquis By Waterford Crosby Ice Bucket — Another Option
The Crosby Collection by Marquis by Waterford is their more accessible, contemporary line and their ice bucket is a great luxe starter piece for anyone’s collection. Made from genuine crystal, it features a modern geometric grid cut pattern and has a generous capacity to hold a large amount of ice. Perfect for everyday use and entertaining, this ice bucket will definitely make a statement wherever it is used.
Pros
- For its price point, it’s a great high-end looking piece and comes with a pair of tongs
Cons
- Hand wash only
Buyer’s Guide for Finding a Ice Bucket
When we talk about buying the top ice buckets, it seems like an easy-going process, right? However, there's more to selecting them than picking up the next option for parties right off the shelf. Finding the proper bucket requires proper research and understanding of the product as quality demands because keeping your drinks chill is no easy feat. Too occupied to do the research? No worries! Just go through this detailed guide, and you are all sorted.
What Is an Ice Bucket and Why Do You Need It?
An ice bucket is a storage container to store ice and keep it from melting. It's best for parties, hot summer nights, and buffets to keep drinks cold and refreshing all the time. Whether you opt for ice buckets with lids or a lid-free option, they are an elegant solution to keep your party going and ensure your guests enjoy chilled beverages.
Ice buckets come in many different sizes and features. The two common variants you will find are the ones with lids or otherwise. Some buckets come with a handle and ice scoop, while others conveniently accommodate fresh fruits and lemons. They are made up of stainless steel and are designed to hold large-sized bottles. It's all up to you whether you are looking for an ice bucket for drinks of larger size to assist in big feasts or parties, or for the ones that are small in size for personal use.
What Factors Will Help You Pick the Right Ice Buckets for Parties?
Here are some of the most needed elements you should consider while buying an ice bucket.
Material
Material is the principal feature that reflects the quality of an ice bucket. There is no doubt that some materials make these buckets more convenient in their use and maintenance.
Ice buckets are mostly made up of a fusion of plastic, galvanized steel, wood, glass, silver, stainless steel, and acrylics. Some buckets involve using only a single material such as glass or plastic individually that you can purchase on your preference.
Stainless steel is considered an ideal material for making buckets with lids. It is a great temperature conductor, slows down the ice from melting, shows great resistance against corrosion, and is highly durable and sturdy. As a result, covered ice buckets are far better than the other ones. However, keep in mind that you would have to scrub it a little harder to clean and polish stainless steel, so you can give it a pass if it bothers you.
Some ice buckets are made of plastic that is not heavy-duty, but its transparent nature does a lot. Therefore, you can predict when ice or drinks are running short and time to refill. Additionally, you can opt for premium materials that offer quality and toxin-free assurance to enhance safety.
Size
A good-sized ice bucket for drinks can save you from efforts of going back and forth to get more ice and save you a lot of time and energy. So, go for the size that suits best your requirements. You can also opt for buckets with handles to add to your convenience.
If you are looking for buckets for barbecue parties, picnics, or your cafe, then look for ice buckets with a large storage capacity (also called tubs) to accommodate multiple bottles and ice. On the other hand, small-sized buckets are not a bad choice if you are looking for a bucket for personal use and transport. They come in super handy and comfortable designs with additional accessories such as a garnish tray.
Insulation capabilities
An ice bucket with high insulation capabilities prevents ice from melting. So, if you are looking for an icebox that can resist the effect of higher temperature for an extended period, then this factor just can't be missed. To spot the quality insulation, check out if the bucket is double-walled or not because dual layers help it keep the coolness inside and ice dry for a long time and prevent condensation from damaging its outer layers.
Storage capacity
The storage capacity is also necessary for choosing the best bucket for drinks. If you are going to organize a large event, then a 5-6 liters storage capacity should be enough to meet ice demands. However, an ice bucket of 1.5-2 liters would work great for you for small gatherings.
Price
The price of ice buckets can vary depending upon their materials, storage, insulation, and other features. Most high-quality buckets come at a very reasonable price, so you don't have to fret about it. Ensure that the bucket you are picking up is functional enough to be worth its price.
What Additional Features Can You Look For?
An ice bucket purchase becomes more exciting if the product comes with certain value-added features.
Complimentary accessories
Some ice buckets come with accessories such as tongs, garnish trays, and scoops that always add convenience and functionality. So, if you want your buckets to give a fancy yet professional look, and save you time, then you may consider them.
Ice bucket stand
The condensation in ice buckets tends to leave wet patches and puddles on your table, countertop, or rug. So, adding a sturdy stand can help solve the condensation issue and elevate your bucket. Bucket stands also come in foldable variants for space-saving purposes.
