A wooden ice chest, also referred to as a cooler or icebox, is a traditional storage unit that has been used for centuries to preserve food and beverages. The earliest record of wooden ice chests dates back to the 18th century when people used them to store food and ice in an effort to extend their shelf life. Today, wooden ice chests continue to be popular due to their unique appearance, durability, and functionality. They are typically made of high-quality wood, such as oak, cherry, or maple, and come in a variety of sizes and shapes to accommodate different needs. One of the most notable features of a wooden ice chest is its ability to keep food and beverages cool for extended periods of time. This is achieved through the use of insulation materials, which help to maintain a consistent temperature inside the chest. Additionally, many wooden ice chests come equipped with drains to prevent condensation from building up inside the unit, which can cause food and drinks to become soggy and unappetizing. The wooden ice chest is a classic storage unit that has stood the test of time. Its practical design, combined with its rustic appearance and ability to keep food and drinks cool for extended periods of time, has made it a favorite among homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
How We Choose
In order to find the best wooden ice chest, we looked for products that were well-made and durable. We also considered customer reviews and experts' opinions to get an idea of real-world performance. Finally, we compared prices to make sure you could find a great deal on a quality product. With all these factors in mind, we were able to narrow down our list to only the absolute best wooden ice chests available today.
Backyard Discovery 100 Qt. Patio Cooler - Acacia
Backyard Discovery's 100-quart Acacia Wood Cooler is a great choice for anyone looking to store large quantities of food and beverages. This cooler has a spacious interior that can accommodate up to 100 quarts of food or beverages, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings.
The lid is air-tight and features easy-to-use air shocks for smooth closing. The liner with easy drain feature makes cleanup simple, while the attached towel racks and bottle opener make sure you have what you need where you need it.
The product comes with premium locking casters that make movement easy and sturdy when locked down, while the Indonesian Acacia wood construction ensures durability that lasts through years of use.
Rustic Outdoor Beverage Cooler for Patio - 45 Qt.
If you're looking for a stylish and functional outdoor beverage cooler, then the Backyard Expressions Rustic Brown 45 Quart Beverage Cooler is an excellent choice. This patio beverage cooler comes with a large capacity of 45 quarts, which means it can hold plenty of drinks and ice cubes so you won't have to keep refilling it.
The lid on this unit is also very easy to open thanks to its built-in handles, making it simple to grab your favorite drink without having to use both hands. The lid also includes an opener so that you don't have to worry about spilling your drink when opening the lid. And best of all, this item is fully insulated so that your beverages stay nice and cold even after they've been sitting out in the heat all day long.
This beverage cooler will make a great addition to any patio set up as it's not only functional but also stylishly designed with its natural wood finish and rustic brown color scheme. It's also very easy to transport since it only weighs 39 pounds - making it perfect for those who want their own personal bar but don't necessarily want or need something too heavy or bulky that takes up space inside their home/garage/shed.
Furinno Tioman Outdoor Hardwood Cooler, Natural Cooler Box
The Furinno Tioman Outdoor Hardwood Cooler is a great choice for anyone who wants a stylish and functional outdoor beverage container. This cooler has a large capacity of 26.4 pounds, which means you can keep your favorite beverages ice-cold all day long.
The hardwood finish gives it an elegant look that will complement any patio or backyard décor. The lid closes securely to keep insects and debris out, while the waterproof construction ensures this cooler will last through any rainstorm or summer downpour. It's also easy to transport thanks to its lightweight design and sturdy carrying handles.
This product comes with free shipping via Amazon Prime, so you won't have to pay additional fees when you receive it at your doorstep in no time! Overall, the Furinno FG19917 Tioman Outdoor Hardwood Cooler is a great choice if you want a stylish and functional outdoor beverage container that will last for years to come!
Leigh Country TX 94012 54Qt. Cooler Char-Log
As the weather starts to cool, it's time to start thinking about what kind of outdoor entertaining you'll be doing this season. If you're looking for a versatile and spacious cooler that can handle both hot and cold beverages, then the Leigh Country Char-Log Cooler is a great choice.
This 54-quart capacity cooler features an insulated polypropylene liner which helps keep your drinks at their ideal temperature. The log wood exterior adds a touch of rustic charm that will complement any backyard or patio theme. The varnish finish on this piece also ensures durability so you won't have to replace it anytime soon.
One drawback with this model is its lack of bottle opener, but other than that we think this is a great value for the price point considering all of its included features such as the bottle opener and drain valve.
Backyard Expressions Wooden Patio Beverage Cooler - American Flag Design 57 Qt.
The Backyard Expressions Wooden American Flag Patio Beverage Cooler is a great choice for any patriotic occasion. This wooden cooler comes in the shape of an American flag and features a decorative design with a flag in the middle.
This product has been designed to hold 57 quarts, which is enough space to keep your drinks cold for hours. The construction of this item is made from wood, which gives it a natural look that will complement any outdoor setting. It also comes equipped with bottle opener on the side so you can easily open your favorite beverage without getting up from your seat.
The interior of this beverage cooler is lined with insulation material to keep your drinks cold for hours and there's drain plug included as well - making cleanup easy every time you use it!
Wooden Ice Chest FAQs
How Long Will A Wooden Ice Chest Keep Drinks Cold?
In order to keep drinks cold, ice or some sort of cooling pack must be added to the chest. If you're concerned about keeping your drinks cool for a long time, then consider purchasing an insulated ice chest and adding enough ice to last several days.
Most people don't want to add ice every day they use their cooler though, so that brings us back to our original question: how long will a wooden ice chest keep drinks cold without any additional cooling?
In general, you can expect your beverages to stay cool for six hours if there is no additional cooling inside the chest. This time will vary depending on the size of your cooler and how hot it is outside though. For example, if you place four 12-ounce cans in one of these chests and it's 100 degrees outside with moderate humidity levels, we found that those cans typically stayed cold for just over three hours.
Are Wooden Ice Chests Insulated?
While it's true that most coolers are made out of plastic, many manufacturers have begun using wood for the body of their products. While wood won't make a huge difference in terms of insulation when the cooler is still, it can play an important role in keeping things cold once you've arrived at your destination.
Do All Wooden Ice Chests Have A Drain?
Most models, yes. It is a small hole on the bottom side of your cooler that allows excess water to drain out. If you notice your ice chest is taking in more water than it's letting out, that means something is blocking the drain hole – which can cause damage to the hinges and inner workings of your cooler.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right wooden ice chest for your deck, patio, or backyard gathering is an important decision. The best coolers not only keep your beverages chilled but also add a decorative touch to your outdoor space. Whether you opt for a model made from reclaimed pallets for a rustic look, a sophisticated option with brass accents, or a durable cooler built with a sturdy wooden board, there is a wooden cooler to suit every style and need. With careful consideration and proper maintenance, the wood ice chest you build or purchase will serve as a functional and stylish addition to your outdoor setup for many seasons to come.
