Cold packs come in four main types. Instant cold packs are single-use and turn cold when you squeeze them, with no freezer needed. Reusable gel packs go in the freezer and can be used again and again. Hot/cold packs can be frozen or warmed, depending on the label. Cold wraps hold one or more reusable packs in a fabric cover with straps, so the pack stays in place around a knee, wrist, shoulder or hip. The right choice depends on where you will use it, how often, and whether you have a freezer nearby.
Cold pack types at a glance
| Type | How it gets cold | Reusable? | Best for | Examples we carry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Instant cold pack | Squeeze to start the chemical reaction | No, single use | First aid kits, sports bags, travel, work sites | Dynarex DynaSafety Instant Cold Pack; Instant Cold Compress 5" x 9" |
| Reusable gel pack | Freezer | Yes | Regular use at home or in a clinic | Reusable Heavy Duty Cold Pack 11" x 14" and 11" x 21"; Sport Pac |
| Hot/cold gel pack | Freezer, or warmed as the label directs | Yes | People who want one pack for both cold and warmth | Reusable Hot Cold Gel Packs 5" x 11" |
| Cold wrap system | Freezer packs inside a fabric holster | Yes | Hands-free use on a joint | Ice It! ColdComfort knee, wrist, ankle/elbow/foot, large and extra-large |
| Cold plus compression | Freezer packs plus a pump or cuff | Yes | Use where a clinician has suggested cold with compression | Ice It Pump Hip Wrap; Aircast Cryo/Cuff |
Instant cold packs
An instant pack is handy anywhere there is no freezer. You squeeze it to break the inner pouch, shake it, and it gets cold within moments. Once it warms up, it is done and goes in the trash. We stock the Dynarex DynaSafety Instant Cold Pack and the Instant Cold Compress 5" x 9" in cases, which suit first aid kits, schools, gyms and teams.
Reusable gel packs
If you use cold often, a reusable pack costs less over time. The Reusable Heavy Duty Cold Pack 11" x 14" and the oversize 11" x 21" have a gel inside a vinyl cover and are listed as giving up to 30 minutes of cold. The larger size covers the back, shoulders or thighs. The Sport Pac comes 10 to a case in ball shapes for teams. For packs that can also be warmed, see the Reusable Hot Cold Gel Packs 5" x 11"; only warm a pack that is labeled for heat, and follow the label's directions.
Cold wraps for joints
A loose pack slides off a knee or elbow. Ice It! ColdComfort systems hold the packs in a plush fabric holster with straps, and the packs stay flexible when frozen so they shape around the joint. Choose by body area:
- Knee: ColdComfort Knee 12" x 13", with two 6" x 12" packs
- Wrist: ColdComfort Wrist 4.5" x 7.5"
- Ankle, elbow or foot: ColdComfort Ankle/Elbow/Foot, with three packs
- Back, hip or larger areas: ColdComfort Large 6" x 18" or Extra Large 9" x 20"
- Hip with compression: Ice It Pump Hip Wrap, with a hand bulb pump to adjust compression
For cold water circulated through a cuff after surgery, read our Aircast Cryo/Cuff guide. Shop all cold therapy or the wider hot and cold therapy range.
Tips for using cold packs safely
- Put a thin cloth or the product's cover between the pack and your skin.
- Follow the time limit on the product label, and check your skin during use.
- Do not sleep with a cold pack on.
- Throw away any pack that leaks, and never reuse an instant pack.
- Ask your doctor before using cold if you have poor circulation, reduced feeling in the area, or a condition that makes you sensitive to cold.
Frequently asked questions
Do instant cold packs need to go in the freezer?
No. They get cold when squeezed. Storing them at room temperature is fine; check the package for storage limits.
Should I use cold or heat?
That depends on your situation, so ask your doctor or therapist. For the heat side, see moist heat vs. dry heat and our moist heating pads.
Can I buy cold packs in bulk?
Yes. Several of our instant and reusable packs are sold by the case, which suits clinics, schools and teams.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk with your doctor, nurse or therapist about what is right for you.