Let’s talk business. As an Airbnb host, you’re not just renting out a space; you’re selling an experience. And in the world of five-star reviews, it’s the little things that make a huge difference. If you’re looking to elevate your guest experience and are ready to buy an ice maker for your Airbnb, you’ve come to the right place. Forget those flimsy, space-hogging ice trays that guests hate. A dedicated ice maker is a game-changing amenity that guests will remember and appreciate, especially on a hot day. It screams “premium” without the premium cost.
Why Your Airbnb Desperately Needs an Ice Maker
You might be thinking, “Is an ice maker really necessary?” Trust me on this one, it’s an investment that pays for itself in guest satisfaction. I’ve talked to dozens of Airbnb Superhosts, and the consensus is clear: a reliable source of ice is a small luxury that leaves a big impression.
- Boost Your Guest Experience: Imagine your guests arriving after a long journey. They want to unwind with a cold drink. Instead of rationing cubes from a tray, they find a basket full of fresh, clean ice. That’s an instant win. It’s the kind of thoughtful touch that gets mentioned in reviews.
- Convenience for You and Your Guests: No more of your cleaning crew having to remember to refill trays. No more guests running to the store for a bag of ice. It simplifies everything and removes a common point of friction.
- Stand Out from the Competition: In a crowded market, amenities matter. When a potential guest is comparing two similar properties, a dedicated ice maker can be the tie-breaker. It shows you’ve thought about their comfort and convenience.
- Perfect for Entertaining: If your property is designed for families or groups, an ice maker is practically a necessity for hosting dinners, BBQs, or poolside cocktails.
What Kind of Ice Maker Should I Get for a Rental Property?
Not all ice makers are created equal, and what works for a family home might not be the best fit for a rental. The key here is balancing performance with simplicity and durability.
Countertop (Portable) Ice Makers
For 90% of Airbnbs, this is the sweet spot. A countertop ice maker is a standalone appliance you just plug in, add water to the reservoir, and turn on.
- Pros: No installation or plumbing required, relatively affordable, and you can place it anywhere with a power outlet. They start making ice in as little as 6-10 minutes.
- Cons: They have a smaller production and storage capacity and require manual water refills. The ice also isn’t kept frozen indefinitely; it melts back into the reservoir to be remade, which is actually a great feature for a rental as it prevents stale ice buildup.
Undercounter (Built-in) Ice Makers
If you manage a luxury property, a large home that sleeps 10+, or you’re doing a kitchen remodel, an undercounter unit is a fantastic upgrade. These are installed under the counter like a dishwasher and connect directly to a water line.
- Pros: High ice production (often 50+ pounds a day), large storage bins, and a seamless, professional look. They provide a constant supply of ice without any manual intervention.
- Cons: They are significantly more expensive, require professional installation (plumbing and electrical), and are a permanent fixture.
Expert Take: “For most Airbnb hosts, a high-quality countertop model is the most practical choice,” says appliance technician John Carter. “It minimizes installation costs and potential maintenance issues. Look for a model with a self-cleaning function; it’s a lifesaver for quick turnovers between guests.”
Key Features to Consider When You Buy an Ice Maker for Airbnb
Okay, you’re convinced. But what specific features should be on your checklist? It’s not just about making ice; it’s about making your life as a host easier.
- Production Capacity: This is measured in pounds of ice per 24 hours. For a typical 1-2 bedroom Airbnb, a machine that produces 25-30 pounds per day is plenty. For larger homes, aim for 40 pounds or more.
- Storage Bin Capacity: This is how much ice the machine can hold at one time. A bin that holds around 2 pounds is standard for countertop models and is usually sufficient, as the machine constantly replenishes the supply.
- Speed: How quickly can it make the first batch? Guests appreciate quick results. Most countertop models can churn out the first batch of cubes in under 10 minutes.
- Ease of Use: The control panel should be intuitive. Think simple buttons and clear indicator lights (e.g., “Add Water,” “Ice Full”). Guests shouldn’t need a manual to figure it out.
- Self-Cleaning Function: This is a non-negotiable feature for a rental property. A self-cleaning cycle makes it incredibly easy for you or your cleaning crew to maintain hygiene with minimal effort.
- Durability: Look for models with a stainless steel finish. They’re more durable, easier to clean, and look more professional than plastic models.
- Noise Level: A noisy appliance can be a deal-breaker. Check reviews for comments on noise. A compressor-based ice maker will make some noise, but it shouldn’t be louder than a modern refrigerator.
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Our Picks for the Best Ice Maker in 2025
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| Num | Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | FRIGIDAIRE EFIC189-Silver Compact Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Silver |
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| 2 | 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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| 3 | 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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| 4 | 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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| 5 | FRIGIDAIRE EFIC128AMZBLK Compact Countertop Ice Maker, 26 lb per Day, Black |
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| 6 | 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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| 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 | 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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| 9 | Frigidaire 26 Lbs per Day Portable Compact Maker, Ice Making Machine, Black Stainless, Medium |
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| 10 | 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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Let’s Talk Ice Types: Does It Really Matter?
Yes, it does! The type of ice can add another layer of luxury to the guest experience.
Bullet Ice
This is the most common type from countertop machines. It’s bullet-shaped with a hollow center. It’s great because it cools drinks quickly and is softer to chew than solid cubes.
Nugget Ice (a.k.a. “Sonic Ice”)
This is the holy grail of ice. It’s made from compacted ice flakes, making it soft, chewable, and fantastic at absorbing the flavor of a drink. If you want to really “wow” your guests, a nugget ice maker is the way to go. They are typically more expensive, but the rave reviews might be worth it.
Crescent Ice
This is the classic half-moon shape you get from most refrigerator ice makers. It’s functional and stacks well in a glass, but it doesn’t have the “premium” feel of bullet or nugget ice.
Simple Maintenance for Happy Guests and a Healthy Machine
A little bit of care goes a long way. The last thing you want is a call from a guest about a malfunctioning or dirty machine.
- Always Use Filtered Water: This dramatically reduces mineral buildup (scale) inside the machine, which keeps the ice tasting fresh and the machine running efficiently.
- Run the Self-Cleaning Cycle: Instruct your cleaning crew to run the self-cleaning cycle between each guest stay or at least once a week. It’s usually a simple button press.
- Wipe It Down: The exterior and the ice scoop should be wiped down and sanitized regularly.
- Empty Between Stays: If you have several days between bookings, it’s a good idea to empty the water reservoir and the ice basket to prevent any stale water from sitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much ice does an Airbnb really need per day?
A: A good rule of thumb is about 1-2 pounds of ice per guest, per day. A standard countertop machine producing about 26 pounds per day can easily accommodate a property that sleeps up to 4-6 people, as not everyone will be using ice constantly.
Q: Is a countertop ice maker loud?
A: Most modern countertop ice makers produce a low hum similar to a refrigerator, along with the sound of ice dropping into the basket. It’s generally not disruptive, but it’s best to place it in the kitchen or a utility area rather than right next to a bedroom.
Q: Do I need a direct water line for an Airbnb ice maker?
A: Not for a countertop model, which is one of their biggest advantages. You simply fill a reservoir with water. This eliminates the risk of leaks and the cost of a plumber, making it ideal for a rental property.
Q: What’s the best way to clean an ice maker in a rental?
A: The easiest way is to use the machine’s self-cleaning function. For a deeper clean every few months, use a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar (or a dedicated ice machine cleaning solution) and run it through a cycle, followed by several rinse cycles with fresh water.
Q: Should I leave the ice maker on between guests?
A: It’s best to turn it off, empty the ice and water, and wipe it dry if you have more than a day or two between guests. This ensures the next guest starts with a completely fresh system. For back-to-back bookings, leaving it on is perfectly fine.
The Final Verdict
Ultimately, the decision to buy an ice maker for your Airbnb is an investment in your business. It’s a relatively low-cost amenity that delivers a high-impact guest experience. It reduces your workload, delights your visitors, and provides a clear competitive edge that translates directly into glowing reviews and more bookings. Choose a durable, easy-to-use countertop model with a self-cleaning function, and you’ll have a reliable asset that your guests will love for years to come.