How Traditional Ice Cubes Freeze and Why They Are Cloudy

Why the middle of an ice cube looks cloudy

In an ordinary tray, water freezes inward from several exposed surfaces. Air and dissolved material collect in the remaining liquid and can become trapped near the center. That is why a cube may have clear edges and a cloudy middle.

How directional freezing changes the result

Insulating a container so that freezing progresses mainly from one direction moves the cloudy portion toward the last area to freeze. Learn how this works in our directional freezing guide.

For more background, see Camper English's explanation on Alcademics.

Choose the ice shape for your glass

For clear cubes, explore the Glacio Clear Ice Cube Duo, which makes two 2-inch cubes. Prefer a round shape? The Clear Ice Sphere Duo makes 2.5-inch spheres. Check the size against your glass before choosing.

Already have a Duo? Follow the Clear Sphere/Cube Duo filling and freezing instructions. These products have their own preparation steps, so use the instructions for your model.