A clean piece of ice can make a cold drink feel more prepared. A silicone ice tray is useful because the flexible base helps release the ice without banging the tray against the counter.
What to keep in mind
Fill each section a little below the rim instead of all the way to the top. Water expands as it freezes, and leaving a small margin helps the shape stay neat while making the tray easier to move.
Before and after use
After taking the tray out of the freezer, wait a few seconds before pressing from the bottom. For round or larger ice, loosen the whole shape gently rather than forcing one side out first.
A quiet fit for everyday cooking
After use, wash the tray with mild detergent and let the inside dry thoroughly before storage. Keeping it away from strongly scented foods also helps the next batch of ice taste clean.