If you’re using the urethane-insulated box, buy one that’s at least 3 inches (7. 6 cm) thick.

If the gas has no way to escape, pressure can build up within the cooler and weaken the plastic.

If other people will be opening the cooler to get items out (such as drinks) inform people not to touch the dry ice or lay a cardboard covering over the dry ice.

If you bought small chunks of ice, you may not be able to wrap them in newspaper. Instead, surround the chunks with newspaper to slow evaporation.

If you’re storing food, remember that the food or drinks will freeze if they’re touching the dry ice. Place newspaper or cardboard between the dry ice and the items.

The cardboard acts as a buffer to stop people from touching the dry ice and can prevent food from freezing, so you can skip this if you’re mainly using the cooler for food storage.

Avoid putting the dry ice on top if you plan on getting in and out of the cooler often since it can be difficult to move the dry ice out of the way.

Avoid leaving the dry ice in the sink to evaporate since the extremely cold temperature can damage the plumbing. If you can’t leave the dry ice outside, set it on a solid surface such as a wooden cutting board and open the windows in the room. Keep the room ventilated as the dry ice evaporates.