Why is bar ice clear while home ice is cloudy?

When you order a cocktail at a bar, the ice often appears crystal clear, without bubbles. In contrast, the ice we make at home is usually cloudy.

This difference is due to the way the water freezes. In home ice trays, water freezes from all sides simultaneously, trapping air bubbles and impurities in the center. This causes the cloudiness.

In bars, ice freezes slowly and directionally, usually from the top down. This process allows bubbles and impurities to be expelled, creating clear ice.

You can make clear ice at home using an insulated container. Fill the container with water, leave it open, and place it in the freezer. The insulation slows down the cooling on the sides, allowing the water to freeze from top to bottom.

Source: cantina.protothema.gr