How to Make Cold Pack Jellies

Cold packs are a good idea to have around for home emergencies. They help reduce swelling on the body and numb you so you are no longer in pain. Ice packs are made by freezing water, but they melt rather quickly. It is better if you make a cold pack that is more of a gel. The gel will not melt as quickly and can be used as often as needed. It also can be stored in the freezer.

Things You'll Need

• 3 cups water
• 1 cup rubbing alcohol
• 2 plastic zipper bags

Instructions

1. Pour the water into a plastic zipper bag.

2. Add the rubbing alcohol. This will keep the water from turning to ice.

3. Close the zipper bag and squish it with your hands. This will mix the ingredients together.

4. Place the plastic zipper bag in a second zipper bag. This is added protection against leaks or small tears in the first bag.

5. Place the zipper bags in the freezer until the mixture has turned in to a gel. It is then ready to use. You can leave the cold gel pack in the freezer if you do not need it right away.

Tips & Warnings

• If the gel pack begins to become solid, add more alcohol.

• If the gel pack becomes too much like a liquid, add more water.

• Use the gel pack for 10 to 20 minutes at a time.

• Keep the cold pack away from small children. It is not edible. You may want to label the outside of the plastic zipper bag so family members can easily identify it as a gel pack.

• Always wrap the cold gel pack with a thin towel so that it does not cause frostbite.

References

• Real Simple magazine: Rubbing Alcohol in Gel Packs