5 Rules for Using Dry Ice in a Cooler

Never seal the cooler Dry ice sublimates into gas that expands 800 times its volume. A sealed cooler will burst or blow its lid off.

Vent the cooler Crack the lid open or use a cooler with a pressure relief valve. Some premium coolers have them; many do not.

Never touch dry ice with bare skin At -109°F, it causes instant frostbite. Always use insulated gloves or tongs.

Keep the area ventilated CO2 displaces oxygen. Never leave dry ice in a car trunk or other enclosed space without airflow.

Pack it properly Wrap dry ice in paper or a towel so it doesn’t touch food directly. Place it on top of the contents, because cold air sinks.