Q&A for How to Make Ice Cubes with an Ice Tray

Unclear ice cubes can be caused by introducing another element other than water, such as lemon juice or another fruit juice. Sometimes it is the water, when trapped air bubbles and impurities make the ice appear unclear or cloudy.

If contaminated water was used to make ice cubes, you can get sick from whatever contamination (food poisoning bacteria) is in the cubes. This is a common problem for travelers, who forget that ice cubes can be a hazard just as much as water in some places. It can also be a problem if you don't regularly clean your ice maker or ice cube trays.

Sure, you can try freezing citrus garnishes as a form of ice cube. For example, cut a washed lemon into slices and arrange the slices single layer across a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Place the sheet in the freezer to freeze the lemon slices. Once frozen, you can use these in drinks in place of ice cubes. Of course, ensure that lemon is a flavor that matches well with the drink! You can use oranges, grapefruit or limes the same way.

Slushies are easy to make, just check out this article for more help: How to Make a Slushie .

Ice cubes melt very fast usually, depending on the temperature of the room, probably under 30 minutes.

You can buy some ready-made ice from the supermarket, or you can buy an ice-making machine.

The most common is obviously placing normal ice cubes into any drink to cool it down, or water it down, but the fruity or herb ones, like seen at the end of this article, can be used to flavor as well as chill. Sangria, wine, fruit punch, and slushies are all great with fruit-flavored ice cubes.

About 3 hours in an empty freezer (depending on the quality of the freezer), 6 hours for a packed freezer, but just leave it overnight if you are not sure.

You could do it over a strainer in your sink if you’re worried about it. Otherwise, go slow and be careful.

Yes you can, if you want your ice cube to taste like tea. Simply fill the ice tray with cold tea (it must be cooled down first) instead of plain water. Then freeze as instructed above.