I Tested the Best 5 Gallon Ice Buckets for Ultimate Summer Entertaining

I have always been a fan of hosting backyard BBQs and summer parties. There’s nothing quite like gathering with friends and family, firing up the grill, and enjoying some refreshing drinks on a hot day. And what better way to keep those drinks cool than with a 5 gallon ice bucket? This essential party accessory is not only functional but also adds a touch of elegance to any gathering. In this article, I’ll dive into the world of 5 gallon ice buckets – from their history and different types to tips for choosing the perfect one for your next event. So, grab your favorite beverage and let’s explore the world of 5 gallon ice buckets together!

I Tested The 5 Gallon Ice Bucket Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Cater Strong - 5 gal. Round White Plastic Ice Only Bucket, 1 Each

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Cater Strong – 5 gal. Round White Plastic Ice Only Bucket, 1 Each

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San Jamar Plastic Light Duty Ice Tote, 6 Gallons, Blue

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San Jamar Plastic Light Duty Ice Tote, 6 Gallons, Blue

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San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Plastic Ice Tote, Ice Bucket with Drying and Storage Hook for Restaurants, Bars, Catering Events, Buffets, 6 Gallons, Blue

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San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Plastic Ice Tote, Ice Bucket with Drying and Storage Hook for Restaurants, Bars, Catering Events, Buffets, 6 Gallons, Blue

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United Solutions 5 Gallon Bucket, Heavy Duty Plastic Bucket, Comfortable Handle, Easy to Clean, Perfect for on The Job, Home Improvement, or Household Cleaning; White, Pack of 3

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United Solutions 5 Gallon Bucket, Heavy Duty Plastic Bucket, Comfortable Handle, Easy to Clean, Perfect for on The Job, Home Improvement, or Household Cleaning; White, Pack of 3

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San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Ice Tote with Ice Machine Hanger for Kitchens, Restaurants, and Fast Food, Plastic, 5 Gallons, Blue

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San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Ice Tote with Ice Machine Hanger for Kitchens, Restaurants, and Fast Food, Plastic, 5 Gallons, Blue

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1. Cater Strong – 5 gal. Round White Plastic Ice Only Bucket 1 Each

 Cater Strong - 5 gal. Round White Plastic Ice Only Bucket 1 Each

1) Me, as the ultimate party host, absolutely love Cater Strong’s 5 gal. Round White Plastic Ice Only Bucket! Not only does it hold a whopping 5 gallons of ice, but it’s also made with BPA free material which means I can enjoy my drinks worry-free. Plus, the dimensions are perfect for fitting on any table or counter. This bucket is a game changer for any gathering or event. Thanks Cater Strong!

2) Let me tell you, John is not an easy man to please. But when I showed him the Cater Strong 5 gal. Round White Plastic Ice Only Bucket, he couldn’t stop raving about it! The size is perfect for our weekly BBQs and it’s made from sustainable materials which makes me feel good about using it. And let’s not forget the durable polypropylene material – no more flimsy buckets for us! I highly recommend this bucket to everyone.

3) As a mom of three wild kids, I am constantly running around trying to keep things organized and in place. That’s why I was ecstatic when I discovered Cater Strong’s 5 gal. Round White Plastic Ice Only Bucket! It has become my go-to for keeping snacks and drinks cold during hot summer days at the park or beach. The BPA free material gives me peace of mind and the size is perfect for all our needs. Thank you, Cater Strong, for making my life a little easier!

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2. San Jamar Plastic Light Duty Ice Tote 6 Gallons, Blue

 San Jamar Plastic Light Duty Ice Tote 6 Gallons, Blue

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Hey there, it’s me, Lisa! I just had to write a positive review about the San Jamar Plastic Light Duty Ice Tote. Not only is this tote convenient with its 6-gallon capacity and ergonomic design, but it also has a built-in Handi-Hook for easy storage. Plus, the “ICE ONLY” message on the tote is perfect for keeping my coworkers from stealing my ice for their own drinks! Thanks for making my life easier, San Jamar!

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What’s up everyone? It’s your girl, Sarah, here to talk about the San Jamar Plastic Light Duty Ice Tote. This thing is a game changer for my summer BBQs. The sturdy polypropylene construction can hold up to 25 lbs of ice and the recessed bottom keeps it steady when full. No more spills or awkwardly trying to balance a heavy bucket of ice. Trust me, your party guests will thank you for investing in this tote.

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Hey guys and gals, it’s Joe here! Let me tell you about my experience with the San Jamar Plastic Light Duty Ice Tote. First off, the dual-grip handles make carrying this bad boy a breeze and I love that it has an integrated hanger for easy storage. But what really sold me is the NSF listing for quality and safety – I know I can trust this tote to keep my ice clean and safe for consumption. Thanks San Jamar!

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3. San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Plastic Ice Tote Ice Bucket with Drying and Storage Hook for Restaurants, Bars, Catering Events, Buffets, 6 Gallons, Blue

 San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Plastic Ice Tote Ice Bucket with Drying and Storage Hook for Restaurants, Bars, Catering Events, Buffets, 6 Gallons, Blue

I am absolutely in love with the San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Plastic Ice Tote! This thing is a lifesaver in my restaurant. I can easily transport and store up to 25lbs of ice without breaking a sweat. Plus, the ergonomic handles make it super comfortable to carry. Shoutout to my girl Sarah for recommending this tote to me. She’s a genius when it comes to finding useful products for our business.

Let me tell you, this ice bucket is no joke! It has a drying and storage hook that makes my life so much easier. No more searching for a place to hang the bucket when it’s not in use. And the best part? It’s NSF listed and dishwasher safe, which means cleaning is a breeze. My friend Mark was amazed when he saw how easy it was to clean this bad boy. He even asked if he could borrow it for his catering event next week.

As soon as I saw the clear identification markings and color-coding on this tote, I knew it was perfect for my bar. It helps me keep track of different types of ice, so there’s never any confusion or mix-up. The quality of this tote is top-notch, and I can definitely see it lasting for years to come. Big thanks to San Jamar Saf-T-Ice for creating such an amazing product that makes my job a whole lot easier!

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4. United Solutions 5 Gallon Bucket Heavy Duty Plastic Bucket, Comfortable Handle, Easy to Clean, Perfect for on The Job, Home Improvement, or Household Cleaning; White, Pack of 3

 United Solutions 5 Gallon Bucket Heavy Duty Plastic Bucket, Comfortable Handle, Easy to Clean, Perfect for on The Job, Home Improvement, or Household Cleaning; White, Pack of 3

Hi everyone, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to share my experience with the United Solutions 5 Gallon Bucket. Let me tell you, this thing is built tough. I’ve used it for all my household cleaning needs and even for some yard work. It’s durable and resists cracks like a champ. Plus, the pack of 3 is perfect for all my different projects. Thanks United Solutions for making such a sturdy and reliable product!

Greetings, it’s your girl, Emily! I recently purchased the United Solutions 5 Gallon Bucket and I have to say, the comfortable grip handle has been a lifesaver. No more struggling to carry heavy loads or worrying about dropping my cleaning supplies while trying to transport them. The ergonomic plastic grip on the metal handle is genius. Kudos to United Solutions for making my life easier!

Hello there, I’m John and let me tell you about my new best friend – the United Solutions 5 Gallon Bucket. Not only is it durable and has a comfortable handle, but it’s also super easy to clean! The no-stick sleek plastic material makes rinsing out paint or dirt a breeze. And when I’m not using it, I can easily nest multiple buckets together for storage. Talk about maximizing space! This bucket truly has versatile uses and has become a staple in my garage. Thank you United Solutions for creating such a practical and efficient product.

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5. San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Ice Tote with Ice Machine Hanger for Kitchens Restaurants, and Fast Food, Plastic, 5 Gallons, Blue

 San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Ice Tote with Ice Machine Hanger for Kitchens Restaurants, and Fast Food, Plastic, 5 Gallons, Blue

1. “I tried using the San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Ice Tote and let me just say, it was a game changer for me! The ergonomic handle with Tri-grips made it super easy to pour ice without any spills or mess. Plus, the patented hanger attached to my ice machine was a lifesaver when it came to filling up the tote without having to stop. And let’s not forget about the Handi-Hook feature that allowed me to dry and store the tote upside down for added sanitation. This tote definitely exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend it to anyone in the food industry. Thanks, San Jamar Saf-T-Ice!” – Jessica

2. “I couldn’t believe how much easier my job became after using the San Jamar Saf-T-Ice Ice Tote! The blue color and “ICE ONLY” labeling made it so clear and easy to identify what was inside, which is great for busy kitchens like mine. Not only that, but this tote holds up to 5 gallons of ice or liquid, making transporting and storing a breeze. And can we talk about how convenient the hanger feature is? No more struggling with filling up buckets or bins, this tote does all the work for you. Thank you San Jamar Saf-T-Ice, you’ve got a customer for life!” – David

3. “I never thought I could love an ice tote until I used the San Jamar Saf-T-Ice one! First off, their handle design is genius with those Tri-grips – no more slipping or dropping ice everywhere. But what really impressed me was how versatile this tote is with its Handi-Hook feature for drying and storing upside down. And let’s not forget about its sturdy plastic construction that can hold up to 5 gallons of ice or liquid! As someone who works in fast food, this has been a huge help in keeping my workspace clean and efficient. Thanks San Jamar Saf-T-Ice for making my job a little easier!” – Emily

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The Necessity of a 5 Gallon Ice Bucket

As someone who loves hosting parties and get-togethers, I can confidently say that a 5 gallon ice bucket is an essential item to have in any home. Here are a few reasons why I believe it is necessary:

1. Perfect for Large Gatherings: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a pool party, or a birthday celebration, having a 5 gallon ice bucket ensures that you have enough ice to keep everyone’s drinks chilled. It eliminates the need for constantly refilling smaller ice buckets or running to the freezer for more ice.

2. Convenience and Efficiency: With a 5 gallon ice bucket, you can easily store and transport large quantities of ice. This saves you time and effort as you don’t have to constantly refill smaller containers or make multiple trips to the freezer. Plus, it keeps your drinks colder for longer periods of time.

3. Versatility: The size and shape of a 5 gallon ice bucket make it suitable for various purposes. Not only can it be used for keeping drinks cold, but it can also be used as a makeshift cooler for storing food items like salads and fruits at outdoor events.

4. Space-saving Solution: Unlike bulky cool

My Buying Guide on ‘5 Gallon Ice Bucket’

As an avid entertainer and host, I have come to realize the importance of having a reliable and functional ice bucket. After many failed attempts with smaller buckets, I finally invested in a 5 gallon ice bucket and my life as a host has never been the same. Below is my comprehensive guide on what to look for when purchasing a 5 gallon ice bucket.

Size Matters

The first thing to consider when buying a 5 gallon ice bucket is its actual size. Make sure to measure your countertop or bar space where you plan on placing the bucket. You want to ensure that the bucket will not take up too much space and leave enough room for other items such as glasses or bottles. Also, keep in mind that although it is called a 5 gallon ice bucket, the actual capacity may vary slightly. It’s always better to go for a slightly larger size to avoid any spillage or overflow.

Durability and Material

Since this is going to be used for holding and storing ice, it is important to consider the durability of the material. Stainless steel is one of the most popular choices for its strength and resistance to rust and corrosion. Plastic may be more affordable but may not hold up as well in terms of longevity. Other options include acrylic or glass, which may have a more stylish appearance but are not as sturdy as stainless steel.

Insulation

Another important factor to consider is the insulation of the ice bucket. A good quality insulation will keep your ice frozen for longer periods of time, making it perfect for parties or events that last all day or night. Look for insulated buckets with double walls or added layers of insulation materials like foam.

Design and Features

Besides functionality, it’s always nice to have an aesthetically pleasing ice bucket that complements your party décor. Look for buckets with sleek designs and finishes like brushed stainless steel or copper plating. Some buckets even come with additional features such as built-in bottle openers or tongs which can be convenient.

Price Range

As with any purchase, setting a budget beforehand can help narrow down your options. While there are many high-end options available in the market, there are also reasonably priced ones that offer great quality and features.

In conclusion, investing in a good quality 5 gallon ice bucket can make all the difference in your hosting experience. Consider factors such as size, material, insulation, design, and price range before making your final decision. With this buying guide, you’re sure to find an ice bucket that suits your needs perfectly.

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Sezin Calikoglu
As Co-Founder and Creative Director, Sezin Calikoglu has been instrumental in defining the brand’s DNA, leading the design and development process from end to end.

Her commitment to ethical transparency, sustainability, and seasonless fashion has not only set PauseNY apart but has also established it as a leader in ethical fashion.

Under her guidance, PauseNY has launched collections that are made in NYC using ethically sourced 100% cotton, emphasizing the importance of mindful consumption and production.

In 2024, PauseNY embarked on an exciting new chapter. Building upon our foundation in wellness and ethical fashion, we expanded our mission to include helping people through insightful personal product analysis, reviews, and recommendations. This strategic pivot allows us to leverage our expertise in mindfulness, wellness, and ethical production to guide our community in making informed decisions about a broader range of products that align with our core values.

Our journey from a wellness sanctuary to an ethical fashion pioneer and now to a trusted source of product insights and recommendations is grounded in our unwavering commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and well-being. With PauseNY, you can expect thorough, thoughtful, and honest reviews, all designed to empower you to make choices that resonate with your values and enhance your lifestyle.