Best coolers for house parties
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Why would someone need a cooler?
A cooler can help chill your drinks at parties. They're especially good for those hot summer outdoor parties. You can also take them to picnics and other outdoor events.
Additionally they can be used in garages and other rooms like lounges.
Do I need a big or small cooler?
A small cooler might be useful if you're going to lots of parties or events.
If you're hosting parties then you might find a big cooler useful so that your friends can cool their drinks.
What about fridges?
A fridge may not be as portable as a cooler and you probably can't take it camping. Additionally even small fridges require power which may not be ideal.
If your fridge is in another room, a cooler might be easier. If you party frequently you probably don't want to keep taking food out to make room for your drinks.
Do I need to pre-chill my drinks first?
You don't necessarily have to pre-chill your drinks first but it can help. You may be want to get just pre-chill the first drink and let the cooler handle the rest.
If you do want to do the pre-chilling; you can put a pack of ice cubes 24 hours before your party to chill your cooler..
How do coolers work?
Coolers work by not letting warm air inside. The drinks etc are insulated. Additionally you can put ice inside the cooler to further cool the items inside it.
Does a cooler require ice?
You don't have to have ice but it will definitely help keep things cool.
What ice is best for a party?
You may want to use ice cubes as this is less likely to hurt your hands than dry ice and lasts longer. You can get packs of ice cubes at your local grocery store.
It's dangerous to handle dry ice with bare hands or leave it in your car for an extended period. If you must use it I would recommend wearing rubber gloves and wrap newspaper around it a few times.
Dry ice lasts for 18 to 24 hours and block ice lasts for 1 to 2 days.
Block ice lasts longer (5-7 days) and it could be useful for going away for a few days.
How to pack a cooler with drinks
The drinks generally go in first then you surround the drinks with ice. The more ice that you put in, the better as long as you can quickly get drinks out. You wouldn't want to fully bury the drinks as you may have problems finding them.
Best place for a cooler
The best place for a cooler is anywhere out of the sun. If you're partying outside you may want to have it under a tree or in a tent.
Additional usage tips
The lid needs to be kept closed at all times when people are getting drinks out.
Ensure that the lid is closed quickly when people go to get drinks. Closing the lid properly is also worthwhile. Doing both of these things will minimise warm air getting in.
If you don't have dry ice you could move the ice around so it better touches the drinks. You can do this quickly when you get drinks out.
How to clean a cooler
Give it a good scrub with soap and water. Bleach will also be helpful. Afterwards leave it outside to fully dry. Even a little bit of remaining water can be problematic