Let’s be honest, the little things are what separate a good Airbnb stay from a great one. You’ve nailed the comfy bed, the fluffy towels, and the lightning-fast Wi-Fi. But what about the one amenity that often gets overlooked until a guest is desperately craving a cold drink? Ice. Finding the right Ice Maker For Airbnb Hosts isn’t just about convenience; it’s a small investment that can lead to glowing reviews and repeat bookings. The built-in freezer machine is often too slow, too small, and let’s face it, sometimes picks up weird freezer smells. A dedicated ice maker solves all that, elevating your guest experience from standard to superb.
Why Every Superhost Needs a Dedicated Ice Maker
Think of it this way: when a family of four checks in on a hot summer day, the last thing they want is to fight over the last few cubes in a flimsy plastic tray. A dedicated ice maker ensures there’s always a fresh, plentiful supply ready for their lemonade, cocktails, or iced coffee. It’s a touch of luxury that says, “I’ve thought of everything.”
Here’s why it’s a game-changer for your rental:
- Boosts Guest Satisfaction: It’s a simple, high-impact amenity. Guests consistently notice and appreciate having an unlimited supply of ice on demand. It’s the kind of detail that gets mentioned in 5-star reviews.
- Stands Out from the Competition: In a crowded market, unique amenities make your listing memorable. While others offer the basics, you’re providing a premium convenience.
- Handles Peak Demand: A full house means high demand. A good ice maker can keep up with multiple guests, parties, or family gatherings without breaking a sweat.
- Eliminates the Hassle: No more worrying about refilling ice trays between guests. It’s one less thing on your turnover checklist.
What Type of Ice Maker is Best for a Rental?
Not all ice makers are created equal, and the right choice for your property depends on your space, budget, and the type of experience you want to provide. In my experience, there are three main players to consider.
Countertop Portable Ice Makers
This is the go-to choice for most hosts, and for good reason. They are plug-and-play, require no permanent installation, and are relatively affordable. You just pour water into the reservoir, and it starts making ice within minutes.
- Pros: Easy to set up, portable, fast first batch of ice, and no plumbing required.
- Cons: Can take up valuable counter space, has a smaller storage capacity (ice needs to be used or moved to a freezer), and the fan can be audible.
Under-counter Built-in Models
If you’re aiming for a high-end, seamless look in your kitchen or wet bar, an under-counter model is the way to go. These units are installed directly into your cabinetry and connect to a water line for continuous, hassle-free operation.
- Pros: Sleek, integrated look; large production and storage capacity; very quiet operation.
- Cons: Requires professional installation and a dedicated water line; a significantly higher upfront investment.
Refrigerator Ice Makers (and Why They Often Fall Short)
While convenient, the ice maker built into a standard refrigerator is rarely sufficient for a rental property. They are notoriously slow, have tiny storage bins, and are prone to jamming or breaking down—creating a maintenance headache you don’t need. They simply can’t keep up with the demands of multiple guests.
Key Features to Look for in an Ice Maker for Airbnb Hosts
When you’re shopping around, it’s easy to get lost in the specs. Here are the critical features to focus on to ensure you get a machine that’s perfect for the unique demands of a rental property.
- Ice Production Capacity (Pounds per Day): This tells you how much ice the machine can make in 24 hours. For most Airbnb properties, a machine that produces 25-40 pounds of ice per day is the sweet spot. This ensures you’ll never run out, even with a full house.
- Bin Capacity & Storage: This is how much ready-to-use ice the machine holds at one time. Look for a bin that can hold at least 2-3 pounds. Remember, with countertop models, the ice will eventually melt and be recycled if not used, so it’s more about immediate availability.
- Speed: First Batch of Ice: Guests love instant gratification. Many countertop models can produce the first batch of ice in as little as 6-9 minutes, which is a huge selling point.
- Noise Level (Decibels): An ice maker in an open-concept living space or studio apartment needs to be quiet. Look for models rated under 45 decibels (dB), which is about the sound level of a quiet library. A loud machine can be a major source of annoyance for guests.
- Ease of Use & Cleaning: The controls should be dead simple for a guest to understand. A “self-cleaning” function is a massive bonus for hosts, as it simplifies maintenance between stays.
As John Carter, an appliance technician I’ve spoken with many times, always says: “For a rental, reliability and simplicity trump everything. A machine with a one-touch cleaning cycle will save you hours of work and prevent calls from confused guests.”
Simple Use and Maintenance for Happy Guests (and Hosts!)
A well-maintained machine is a happy machine. To ensure your ice maker for Airbnb hosts is always ready for action and producing clean, fresh-tasting ice, follow a simple routine.
- Weekly Wipe-Down: Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. If it’s a countertop model, empty any unused water from the reservoir between guests to keep it fresh.
- Monthly Deep Clean: This is crucial for preventing mold or mineral buildup. Most machines can be cleaned with a simple solution of water and vinegar or a specialized ice machine cleaner.
- Run the self-cleaning cycle if your machine has one.
- If not, manually drain the unit, wipe down the interior with the cleaning solution, rinse thoroughly with fresh water, and then run a couple of ice-making cycles, discarding the first few batches.
- Provide Simple Instructions: Consider a small, laminated card next to the machine for your guests. Something simple like, “Fill water to the MAX line and press ON for fresh ice in minutes!” can prevent any confusion.
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Our Picks for the Best Ice Maker in 2026
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Silonn Chewable Pellet Ice Machine with Self-Cleanin Function, 33lbs/24H Portable Ice Makers for Home Kitchen Officce, Black |
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| 2 | FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Silver |
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| 3 | Silonn Nugget Ice Maker Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker with Soft Chewable Ice, One-Click Operation Ice Machine with Self-Cleaning, 33lbs/24H for Home,Kitchen,Office |
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| 4 | Silonn Ice Makers Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26lbs in 24Hrs, Self-Cleaning Ice Machine with Ice Scoop and Basket, 2 Sizes of Bullet Ice for Home Kitchen Office Bar Party, Sliver |
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| 5 | Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Black Stainless, Medium |
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| 6 | EUHOMY Nugget Ice Makers Countertop, Pebble Ice Maker Machine with 35lbs/24H Soft Ice, Self-Cleaning Sonic Ice Maker with Ice Scoop&Basket, Pellet Ice Maker for Home/Kitchen/Office(Stainless Steels) |
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| 7 | Ice Maker Countertop, 9 Cubes Ready in 6 Mins, 26 lbs per Day, Ice Machine with 2 Ice Sizes and Self-Cleaning, Portable Ice Maker with Handle for Home, Kitchen, Camping, RV, Office, Black |
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| 8 | FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Black |
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| 9 | Silonn Countertop Ice Maker, 9 Ice Cubes in 6 Mins, 26 Lbs in 24 Hrs, Compact Ice Machine with Ice Basket & Scoop, 2 Ice Sizes, Self-Cleaning Ice Maker for Home/Party/Office/Bar/Dorm, Black |
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| 10 | EUHOMY Nugget Ice Maker Countertop with Handle, Ready in 6 Mins, 34lbs Per Day, Removable Top Cover, Auto-Cleaning, Portable Sonic Ice Maker with Basket and Scoop, for Home/Party/RV/Camping (Black) |
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Quick Fixes for Common Ice Maker Glitches
Even the best machines can have a hiccup. Before you call a repair person, here are a few things to check:
- Not Making Ice? Make sure it’s plugged in and turned on (you’d be surprised!). For countertop models, check if the water reservoir is full. For under-counter units, ensure the water supply line is open.
- Ice is Small or Misshapen? This is often the first sign that the machine needs to be cleaned. Mineral buildup can interfere with the freezing process.
- Making a Lot of Noise? A gentle humming is normal. Loud grinding or clanking could mean a part is loose or the machine isn’t level.
Does the Shape of the Ice Really Matter?
You bet it does! The type of ice a machine produces can contribute to the overall premium feel of your property.
Classic Bullet Ice
This is the most common type from countertop machines. It’s shaped like a small thimble with a hole in the middle. It’s great because its soft texture is easy on blenders, and it cools drinks quickly.
Restaurant-Style Clear Cubes
Produced by more premium under-counter models, these are solid, crystal-clear cubes that melt slowly and don’t water down drinks. They look fantastic in a glass and signal a high-end experience.
The Famous Nugget (or “Sonic”) Ice
This is the holy grail of ice for many. It’s soft, chewable, and absorbs the flavor of the drink. An ice maker for Airbnb hosts that produces nugget ice is a surefire way to delight guests and get rave reviews. You can learn more about our top picks in our guide to the best nugget ice makers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ice does an Airbnb need per day?
A good rule of thumb is to plan for 2-3 pounds of ice per guest per day. A machine that can produce at least 26 pounds in 24 hours is a safe bet for most properties that sleep 4-6 people, ensuring you have plenty of buffer.
Are countertop ice makers loud?
They vary by model. While you’ll hear the fan and the sound of ice dropping into the basket, modern units are surprisingly quiet. Look for models with a noise rating below 45 dB if it will be placed in a sensitive area like a studio apartment.
Should I get an ice maker with a water line?
For ultimate convenience and a hands-off experience, yes. Under-counter models with a direct water line never need refilling. However, for flexibility and ease of installation, a portable countertop model with a water reservoir is the best choice for most hosts.
How often should I clean the ice maker in my rental property?
For health and safety, you should run a cleaning cycle or manually clean the machine at least once a month. It’s also a good practice to drain the water reservoir between each guest booking to ensure maximum freshness. Our step-by-step cleaning guide can help.
What’s the best type of ice for guests?
While any ice is better than no ice, nugget ice (soft, chewable ice) is often considered a luxury and is a huge crowd-pleaser. For general-purpose use, classic bullet ice is perfectly fine and cools drinks very effectively.
The Final Verdict
Choosing the right ice maker for Airbnb hosts is a strategic move that enhances your property’s appeal and directly contributes to a better guest experience. It transforms a basic amenity into a thoughtful touch of hospitality. By focusing on production capacity, ease of use, and low noise levels, you can find a reliable machine that will work hard for your business, one perfect ice cube at a time. It’s an investment that pays for itself in glowing reviews and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve truly thought of everything.