October 231, 2026

Hello Neighbor!

My great-nephew is at that age where he is into everything, bumping his knee on the coffee table more afternoons than not when he stays over.

I did not have a single ice pack in the freezer that would actually mold around a toddler's knee, so I grabbed a sandwich bag, filled it with water and a splash of rubbing alcohol, and tossed it in the freezer.

An hour later it came out cold but still squishy enough to wrap right around him. Below is how I do mine.

Be Well,
Anisa

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Photo: Anisa at her kitchen counter, sealing a sandwich bag filled with water and rubbing alcohol before setting it in the freezer.

Turn Rubbing Alcohol And Water Into A Squishy Ice Pack

A mix of water and rubbing alcohol never freezes completely solid, so it stays flexible enough to mold around a knee, elbow, or forehead instead of sitting stiff like a regular ice cube.

How To Do It

1. Fill a sturdy sandwich or freezer bag about two thirds full with water.
2. Add a splash of rubbing alcohol, about one part alcohol to three parts water.
3. Seal the bag tightly, pressing out extra air, and double bag it if you are worried about leaks.
4. Freeze for at least two hours, then wrap it in a thin towel before using.

More Ways To Use It

• Keep a couple in the freezer for lunchboxes, they stay cold for hours without turning into a soggy mess.
• A smaller, pouch sized version is perfect for a stiff neck or a sore back.

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