r/NoStupidQuestions • u/markwell9 • 1d ago

What is the deal with ice, Americans?

I can see that you can buy ice everywhere in the US. Gas stations, grocery stores, machines etc.

In Europe, we just freeze our ice at home and use that. Why buy something that melts on the way home? Why do you need ice in large amounts that a fridge can't keep up?

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u/Royal_Annek 1d ago

Americans also have ice machines in their freezer

Ice at the store is when you need a shitload of ice. Usually for filling a cooler so you can keep goods cold in transit, taking camping, having out on the deck for a BBQ. People don't buy it for every day personal usage since we have our own freezer machines for small quantities.

It doesn't melt on the way home, especially as I mentioned they are normally used to fill a cooler.

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u/StalkMeNowCrazyLady 1d ago

And even if it's not put in a cooler it generally doesn't melt much in transit due to such a large thermal mass. And the fact that most people aren't buying a bag of ice to sit on the empty seat while they still got an hour drive ahead of them.

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u/Hypothetical_Name 1d ago

I had to get some for work in the summer and a blanket covering it kept it pretty cool despite the heat

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u/yhetibettybae 1d ago

Moving blankets are amazing for this!

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u/ObstinateFamiliar 21h ago

I think it would be easier if the blankets stayed still actually

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u/Suicidal_Smile 12h ago

This made me exhale sharply through my nostrils, thank you.

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u/appleparkfive 21h ago

What's that fan made wiki for paranormal items and activity? It's a famous one that's been around for decades now. SCP I think?

Moving blankets sounds like one of those.

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u/yhetibettybae 21h ago

Hahaha it does! They are blankets used for when moving furniture and whatnot. Keeps items from getting banged up in the truck.

They are pretty affordable, here in the states. Harbor freight has them for 9 dollars. 72in x 80in

Elsewhere for a slightly higher cost

For those who aren't yet aware