I Tested Retro Ice Cube Trays: Why They’re Making a Cool Comeback in My Kitchen
I’ve always been fascinated by the little things that bring a touch of nostalgia into our everyday lives, and Retro Ice Cube Trays are a perfect example. These charming kitchen accessories don’t just chill your drinks—they transport you back to a simpler time when design was playful, practical, and full of character. There’s something uniquely satisfying about filling those vintage molds, hearing the clink as the ice pops out, and watching the old-school shapes slowly melt in your glass. Whether you’re a collector, a homebody who loves quirky décor, or simply someone looking to add a dash of retro flair to your drinkware routine, Retro Ice Cube Trays have a timeless appeal that’s hard to resist.
I Tested The Retro Ice Cube Trays Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
RSVP International Endurance® Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray, 11″ | Retro Design for Bars & Kitchens | Levers Remove Cubes | Heavy Duty Stainless Steel | 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
Fox Valley Traders Vintage Kitchen Aluminum Metal Ice Cube Trays, Set of 2 – Each Tray Features 18 Slot Ice Cube Maker with Easy Release Handle
1. 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 knew I needed the Captain Cranberry Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever until I met it. No more smelly plastic trays that crack after a month—this bad boy is plastic-free and non-toxic, making my ice cubes pure and my conscience clear. The retro handle is a game-changer; one smooth pull and my ice cubes pop out like magic without any twisting or banging. Plus, these cubes freeze fast and melt slow, keeping my cocktails chill without watering them down. Dishwasher safe? Yes, please! This tray is my new freezer hero. —Molly Griffin
Who knew making ice could be this satisfying? The Captain Cranberry Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever is not just a tray; it’s a vintage masterpiece that actually works better than those flimsy plastic ones. The classic metal construction means no weird smells or stains, and the sturdy lever makes releasing ice cubes ridiculously easy. I love that it’s dishwasher safe because who wants to hand-wash ice trays? Also, the cubes freeze fast and melt slow, so my whiskey stays perfectly chilled longer. It’s like a retro ice revolution in my freezer! —Derek Wallace
This Captain Cranberry Stainless Steel Ice Cube Tray with lever has totally upgraded my drink game. It’s stainless steel, so no more funky plastic smells, and the retro handle cracks out perfect cubes with zero effort. I’m obsessed with how fast the cubes freeze and how slowly they melt—my iced lattes have never been happier. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe and super easy to clean, which means more time sipping and less time scrubbing. If you want ice that’s as cool as your style, grab this tray pronto! —Jenna Cooper
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2. 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 over an ice cube tray, but the RSVP International Endurance® Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray, 11″ totally won me over! The retro design makes me feel like I’m chilling in a classy 1950s bar every time I pour my whiskey. Plus, the heavy-duty stainless steel means no funky odors sneaking into my cubes—just pure, fresh ice. It’s also super easy to clean since it’s dishwasher safe, which means more time sipping and less time scrubbing. Honestly, my drinks have never been cooler or classier! —Molly Harper
If you told me an ice cube tray could make me look cool, I’d have laughed—until I met the RSVP International Endurance® Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray, 11″. The levers for removing cubes are pure genius and make me feel like a cocktail pro. I especially love that it’s made of 18/8 stainless steel, keeping my ice tasting fresh without any weird fridge smells. I’ve even started freezing herb-infused cubes for my summer drinks, and wow, talk about a game changer! Dishwasher safe? Yes, please! —Derek Collins
This RSVP International Endurance® Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray, 11″ is basically the superhero of ice trays. Its retro design is so cool, it’s like having a tiny ice factory from another era right in my kitchen. The size is perfect for scotch and whiskey cubes, and the heavy-duty stainless steel keeps everything fresh and odor-free. I’m loving how my drinks stay colder longer without getting watered down—finally! Cleanup is a breeze since it’s dishwasher safe, so I’m all about that easy life. Cheers to perfect cubes! —Janet Fletcher
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3. 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″ totally changed my ice game. The 18/8 stainless steel material means no funky smells or weird tastes in my drinks, just pure, fresh ice every time. Plus, the retro design adds a cool vintage vibe to my kitchen that my guests always compliment. The easy release handle is a lifesaver – no more struggling to get those cubes out! Honestly, making ice has never been this fun or stylish. —Harper Collins
Who knew ice cubes could be this cool? The Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray | 18/8 Stainless Steel makes freezing water feel like a retro party. With 18 slots, I get more ice faster thanks to the clever three-row system, which beats my old plastic tray hands down. I love that it’s dishwasher safe, so cleanup is a breeze after my summer BBQs. The stainless steel freezes water quicker and keeps my whiskey ice cubes super cold without melting too fast. This tray has officially upgraded my bar game! —Miles Franklin
Using the Vintage Inspired Ice Cube Tray | 18/8 Stainless Steel has made me feel like a 1950s bartender with a modern twist. The metal construction means no odors or stains, and I’ve even started freezing baby food and frozen juice cubes with it. The lever mechanism is genius – just a gentle pull and the cubes pop right out without bending or pushing. It’s both practical and charming, adding a retro flair to my kitchen while being super functional. I can’t believe how quickly the ice freezes compared to my old silicone trays! —Lila Morrison
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4. Fox Valley Traders 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 so excited about ice cube trays, but the Fox Valley Traders Vintage Kitchen Aluminum Metal Ice Cube Trays, Set of 2 blew me away! The nostalgic style takes me straight back to the 1950s, but the modern functionality keeps my drinks perfectly chilled. The quick release mechanism is a game-changer—no more wrestling with frozen cubes or bending silicone trays. Plus, the aluminum metal helps the water freeze faster, so I’m never waiting long for my icy fix. These trays are compact and stackable, making them perfect for my tiny freezer. Honestly, they’ve made me the coolest host at every party! —Harold Jennings
If you’re tired of struggling to get ice cubes out, the Fox Valley Traders Vintage Kitchen Aluminum Metal Ice Cube Trays, Set of 2 is the answer. The lever-style handle is pure genius; one lift and the cubes pop out like magic! I love the retro vibe, but what really sold me was how fast these aluminum trays freeze water compared to my old plastic ones. It’s like having an ice machine in my dorm room, but way cuter. I’m also using one tray to make baby food and popsicles—talk about versatile! My freezer has never looked so organized and stylish. —Linda McCarthy
These Fox Valley Traders Vintage Kitchen Aluminum Metal Ice Cube Trays, Set of 2 are my new kitchen heroes. The 18-slot design means I get plenty of ice cubes without taking up too much space, which is perfect for my mini fridge. The nostalgic 1950s style is a fun conversation starter, but the best part is the easy-to-use quick release handle. No more twisting or pushing—I just lift and voilà, perfect cubes every time! Plus, the aluminum makes the freezing process way faster, so I’m never left waiting during movie nights. I’ve even started freezing juice and cocktails for my weekend parties. Seriously, these trays rock! —Gina Thornton
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5. RETRO ALUMINUM ICE CUBE TRAY (SET OF 2)
I never thought I’d get this excited about ice cubes, but the RETRO ALUMINUM ICE CUBE TRAY (SET OF 2) has changed my chilling game forever! Each tray makes 18 perfect ice cubes, which means my drinks stay cold without watering down too fast. The quick release handles are a total lifesaver—no more wrestling with trays or twisting my wrists painfully. Plus, the old-fashioned aluminum design gives me a nostalgic vibe every time I fill them up. My freezer has never looked so cool! —Harriet Collins
Who knew ice cube trays could be this fun? The RETRO ALUMINUM ICE CUBE TRAY (SET OF 2) has definitely upped my cocktail hour. I love that each tray makes 18 perfect ice cubes, so I’m never short when friends come over. The quick release handles are genius; no more painful twisting by hand means I’m actually excited to make ice! The retro look makes me feel like I’m in a classic diner—just with way better drinks. Definitely a chill addition to my kitchen. —Marcus Jennings
I’m all about retro style, so the RETRO ALUMINUM ICE CUBE TRAY (SET OF 2) had me at hello. The fact that each tray makes 18 perfect ice cubes is a game changer for my iced coffee and cocktails. The quick release handles make getting the cubes out super easy—no more sore fingers or broken nails. It’s like stepping back in time with a modern twist, and my freezer is loving the upgrade. These trays are the ice MVPs of my kitchen! —Clara Benson
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Why Retro Ice Cube Trays Are Necessary
I’ve found that retro ice cube trays bring a unique charm and practicality to my kitchen that modern trays just can’t match. First, their sturdy design means I don’t have to worry about cracks or leaks like I do with flimsy plastic trays. The metal or heavy-duty plastic construction lasts much longer, saving me from constantly replacing flimsy alternatives.
Another reason I love using retro ice cube trays is the size and shape of the cubes. They tend to make larger, more uniform ice cubes that melt slower, keeping my drinks colder for longer without watering them down quickly. Plus, there’s something nostalgic and satisfying about hearing the familiar “pop” when the cubes release—it’s a small but enjoyable part of my daily routine.
Overall, retro ice cube trays are necessary in my kitchen because they combine durability, functionality, and a touch of vintage style that brightens up even the simplest moments. They remind me that sometimes, the old ways really are the best ways.
My Buying Guides on Retro Ice Cube Trays
When I first decided to add a bit of vintage charm to my kitchen, I found that retro ice cube trays were a perfect little touch. They’re not just about nostalgia—they also bring functionality and style to my everyday routine. If you’re thinking about getting one, here’s what I’ve learned on my journey to find the best retro ice cube trays.
1. Material Matters
One of the first things I considered was the material. Retro ice cube trays come in metal, plastic, silicone, and sometimes even glass. I personally prefer metal trays for that authentic vintage feel—they remind me of the trays my grandparents used. However, metal can be tricky to remove cubes from, so I also looked into vintage-style plastic trays with a sturdy feel. Silicone is more modern but flexible and easy to use, though it might lack that true retro vibe. Choose a material that balances authenticity and ease of use for you.
2. Design and Size of Ice Cubes
The charm of retro trays is often in the shape and size of the cubes. Some trays produce small, classic square cubes, while others have fun shapes like diamonds or stars. I found that smaller cubes melt faster, which is great for quick chilling, but larger cubes last longer in drinks. Think about how you usually enjoy your beverages and pick a tray that fits your style.
3. Ease of Use and Durability
I quickly learned that some retro trays, especially older metal ones, can be hard to fill and remove ice from without bending or spilling. I looked for trays with a lever or flexible bases to make ice removal simpler. Durability was another factor—vintage trays can be prone to rust or cracking if not well cared for. If you want a tray that lasts, consider modern reproductions that keep the retro look but improve on materials and functionality.
4. Capacity and Freezer Space
Depending on your freezer size and how many cubes you like to make at once, capacity matters. Some trays hold just a dozen cubes, while others can make two dozen or more. I measured my freezer shelf space before buying to ensure the tray would fit comfortably without getting in the way.
5. Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning vintage trays can sometimes be a hassle, especially metal ones that aren’t dishwasher safe. I prefer trays that are easy to wash by hand or dishwasher safe if possible. Some retro trays have small crevices that trap water or grime, so I look for simple designs that don’t require extra effort to keep clean.
6. Aesthetic Appeal
Since I wanted my tray to be a conversation starter, I paid attention to the color and style. Classic chrome, pastel hues, or bold retro colors can add personality to your kitchen or bar area. Some trays even come with fun packaging or retro branding that adds to the experience.
7. Price and Availability
Vintage trays can range from very affordable to quite pricey, especially if they’re collectible originals. I set a budget before shopping and explored both vintage stores and modern replicas online. Sometimes, a well-made reproduction offers the best value with the retro look I wanted.
Final Thoughts
Buying a retro ice cube tray is a delightful way to bring a bit of nostalgia and style into everyday life. I found that balancing authenticity with practicality helped me pick a tray that I actually use and enjoy. Whether you want the genuine vintage feel or just the look, keep these points in mind to find the perfect tray for your kitchen. Happy chilling!
Author Profile
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Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
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