Safe handling and storage
Cold enough to burn. Easy to use safely.
Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide at about −78.5 °C. Follow these rules and it is straightforward to work with.
The two risks to manage
Cold burns
Bare skin touching dry ice can be damaged in seconds, much like a burn.
Prevent it
- Wear insulated gloves and eye protection
- Use tongs or a scoop
- Wear closed shoes when handling larger quantities
Carbon dioxide build-up
As dry ice warms it becomes CO₂ gas, which is heavier than air and can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces.
Prevent it
- Use and store in well-ventilated areas
- Never carry it in a closed vehicle cabin
- Be extra careful in cellars, walk-ins and small rooms
Do
- Keep it in an insulated container that can vent gas.
- Keep the container in a ventilated place, away from people and pets.
- Handle it only with insulated gloves or tools.
- Let leftover dry ice sublimate in a ventilated area.
- Tell everyone who might open or move the container what is inside.
Don't
- Never seal it in an airtight container, bottle or sealed bag.
- Never store it in a domestic freezer.
- Never swallow it, or put it in drinks that will be drunk while it is solid.
- Never leave it where children can reach it.
- Never put it down a sink, toilet or drain.
Storing dry ice
Dry ice cannot be stored indefinitely. It is lost as gas at a rate that depends on its form, insulation and temperature.
- Use a thick-walled insulated box with a loose-fitting lid.
- Larger pieces and blocks last longer than pellets.
- Fill empty space with paper or cardboard to cut air circulation.
- Open the container as little as possible.
Getting rid of leftovers
The simplest way is to let it turn to gas.
- Leave it in an open container in a well-ventilated room or outdoors.
- Keep people, children and pets away while it sublimates.
- Do not put it in bins, drains, sinks or toilets.