4 Ways to Use an Ice Cube Tray (other Than for Ice)

Julien K., Hometalk Team
by Julien K., Hometalk Team
9 Materials
$2
20 Minutes
Easy
Obviously ice cube trays are a great way to make ice. But, they serve many other purposes also. The best part? These little things are handy and inexpensive! So, grab a few of them and start repurposing them around the house. These handy ideas will get you started.
Hack #1 - Paint Tray
Fill each little square with paint for yourself or the kids. Your next art project will be a cinch!


Hack #2 - Aloe Vera Ice Cubes
Say "buh-bye" to uncomfortable sunburns after having so much fun in the sun.






Fill each ice cube slot with aloe vera gel. Place in freezer and let harden.
Ahhh! That ice cold sensation is WAY better than unforeseen aloe vera gel.
Hack #3 - Dishwashing Detergent Capsules
One of the most expensive household cleaning items we use on the regular in my house, are dishwashing capsules for my dishwasher. This is a money-saving technique to make your own with a few simple ingredients!
Mix together all of the ingredients in a large bowl.
  • 1 cup baking soda
  • 2 cup Borax
  • 1/2 cup Epsom or Sea Salt
  • 15-10 Drops Lemon Essential oil
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
(*note: this will bubble/fizz when added to the dry ingredients)


Mix all of the ingredients together well until it forms a sand-like texture that stays "clumped" when pressed together with your hand.
Fill the ice cube tray with your mixture. Be sure to pack it into each compartment tightly. Let harden for 24 hours in a dry place.
Hack Seedling Tray
Flip your ice cube tray to it's backside and drill a small hole into each compartment. This will allow liquid/water to drain easily.
Fill each compartment with soil and plant your seeds.
Place your tray in sunlight and follow the package directions on the seeds to watch your seedlings grow! Then, transfer to a pot or garden of your choice.
Suggested materials:
  • Ice Cube Trays   (Save On Foods)
  • Aloe Vera Gel   (Shoppers Drug Mart)
  • Borax   (Save On Foods)
See all materials
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
  2 questions
  • Irene Irene on Jul 27, 2017

    How do you keep the dishwahing detergent tabs stored? Do they need to be kept in a airtight container?

    Thanks,

    Irene

  • Bobbie Bach Bobbie Bach on Jul 27, 2017

    Would the dishwashing tablets work in a dishwasher or only to wash the dishes by hand?

    Bobbie

Comments
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2 of 34 comments
  • Joanna Harvey Joanna Harvey on Mar 07, 2018

    Freeze chicken broth cubes to add to rice, pasta, potatoes, etc.

    Freeze store bought Pina Coloda Mix cubes to add to juice and rum to make a summer drink.


  • Jewellmartin Jewellmartin on Jul 06, 2018

    The aloe gel cubes look like a great idea. Ice and aloe feel so good on a sun burn, but I have never mixed the idea together. Thanks, Julien! ☺️

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