2026 guide: Where to Buy Dry Ice Near You + Safe Storage & Fun DIY Experiments

Where to Buy Dry Ice Near You

Dry ice is available at most major grocery stores, industrial gas suppliers, and some convenience stores. Because it sublimates rapidly, you must plan your purchase carefully to ensure you have enough for your needs. This guide covers where to find it, how to calculate the right amount, and how to store it safely.

Calculate Your Dry Ice Needs

Dry ice loses mass through sublimation (turning directly from solid to gas). The rate of loss depends on insulation and ambient temperature. Use the calculator below to estimate how much dry ice you need to last for your specific event or shipping duration.

How to Find Dry Ice

Grocery Stores

Most large grocery chains sell dry ice at their ice cream or frozen food counters. You typically need to ask an employee for it, as it is not usually displayed on open shelves. Common retailers include:

Kroger
Safeway
Publix
Walmart (select locations)
Aldi (select locations)

Call ahead to confirm availability and quantity limits, as stock varies by location.

Industrial Gas Suppliers

For bulk purchases or specific forms (pellets, slices, blocks), industrial gas suppliers are the most reliable source. These businesses often serve restaurants, medical labs, and shipping companies. Examples include:

Airgas
Linde
Local independent gas companies

Ice Dealers

Local ice dealers often sell dry ice, especially in areas with high demand for event catering or seafood preservation. Search for "ice delivery" or "dry ice near me" to find local options.

Safe Storage and Transport

Dry ice must be stored in a well-ventilated insulated container. Never store it in an airtight container, as pressure buildup can cause an explosion. Never store it in a standard refrigerator or freezer, as the extreme cold can damage the appliance and the CO2 gas can accumulate to dangerous levels.

Choosing a Cooler

Styrofoam Coolers: Ideal for short-term storage (24-48 hours). They are inexpensive and provide good insulation.
Hard-Sided Coolers: Better for longer durations or rough transport. Ensure the lid seals tightly but allows for some gas escape.
Cardboard Boxes: Acceptable for very short transport times (under 2 hours) if wrapped in newspaper for insulation, but not recommended for storage.

Transporting Dry Ice

Always transport dry ice in a vehicle with open windows to ensure adequate ventilation. Do not leave dry ice in a closed car for extended periods, as CO2 buildup can be hazardous. Keep the dry ice in its insulated container until you reach your destination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying Too Early

Dry ice sublimates at a rate of 10-50 pounds per day, depending on insulation. Buying it more than 24-48 hours before you need it will likely result in significant loss. Plan to purchase dry ice as close to your event as possible.

Handling Without Protection

Never touch dry ice with bare hands. It is -109.3°F (-78.5°C) and can cause severe frostbite instantly. Always use tongs,厚 gloves, or a towel when handling dry ice.

Ignoring Quantity Limits

Many grocery stores limit purchases to 5-10 pounds per customer due to supply constraints and safety concerns. If you need more, consider visiting multiple stores or ordering from an industrial supplier.

Frequently asked: what to check next

How much does dry ice cost?

Prices typically range from $1.50 to $3.00 per pound, depending on your location and the quantity purchased. Industrial suppliers may offer lower per-pound rates for bulk orders.

Can I ship dry ice?

Yes, dry ice can be shipped via ground transport by carriers like FedEx and UPS, but it must be packed in an approved insulated container with proper labeling. Air transport is generally prohibited for dry ice in large quantities due to safety regulations.

How long does dry ice last?

In a standard Styrofoam cooler, dry ice can last 18-24 hours for small quantities (5-10 lbs) and up to 2-3 days for larger quantities (50+ lbs) in high-quality insulated containers. Loss rates increase significantly in warm environments or if the cooler is opened frequently.

Is dry ice toxic?

No, dry ice is solid carbon dioxide, which is non-toxic. However, it can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces, leading to asphyxiation. Always ensure adequate ventilation when storing or using dry ice.