rabbit.reviews

The Best Popsicle Molds

Updated April 2026·Experts: nytimes

Best Overall

If you want one mold that just works every time, this is it. Wirecutter tested more popsicle molds than anyone should have to, and the Tovolo won on shape, ease of removal, and drip control.

What holds up

  • Silicone flexes away from frozen pops without running under warm water
  • Compact tray with effective drip catcher reduces mess
  • Dishwasher safe, unlike many competitors
  • Consistent pop shape across all six molds

What to know

  • Plastic molds can occasionally be finicky to remove a pop from
  • Classic shape won't excite kids who want novelty designs
  • Mid-range price compared to budget silicone options
What people say
After researching dozens of popsicle molds, testing 31, and making almost 200 ice pops over the years, we've found that the Tovolo Classic Pop Molds make the most consistent and easy-to-eat pops of all the molds we've tried.
Wirecutter
Best for Toddlers

Real parents keep recommending this one unprompted, which matters more than any lab test. The round shape is easier for small hands to hold, and pop removal is genuinely simple.

What holds up

  • Easy pop removal praised by multiple Reddit users
  • Good size for toddler portions
  • Recommended by trusted parenting food resources like Yummy Toddler Food
  • Round shape is easier for small hands to grip

What to know

  • Not dishwasher safe according to Wirecutter testing
  • Lacks an effective drip tray
  • Wirecutter ranked it below Tovolo for overall performance
What people say
I have this Zoku one that was recommended by i think Yummy Toddler Food. It's so easy to get the pops out and it's a good size.
Reddit user
Best Eco-Friendly

If you care about where your kitchen tools come from, Ecozoi is the pick. The BuyItForLife Reddit crowd specifically called out how much easier removal is versus cheaper alternatives.

What holds up

  • Silicone makes pop removal significantly easier than plastic molds
  • Available through zero-waste retailers like EarthHero and ZeroWasteStore
  • Durable silicone won't crack or become brittle in the freezer
  • Good option for eco-conscious buyers avoiding single-use plastics

What to know

  • Less widely reviewed than Tovolo or Zoku
  • May be harder to find in local stores
  • Higher price point than basic silicone molds
What people say
I tried Ecozoi after comparing a few options from EarthHero and ZeroWasteStore, and I'll say this removing popsicles is way less frustrating. No
Reddit user
Best Stainless Steel

If plastic-free is non-negotiable for you, Seed & Sprout is the clear community answer. No one else in the stainless steel category gets mentioned with this kind of enthusiasm.

What holds up

  • 100% stainless steel, no plastic or silicone contact with food
  • Durable enough to double as toddler play items
  • Works really well per direct owner experience
  • Good choice for parents avoiding BPA and plastic entirely

What to know

  • Stainless steel can make pop removal harder without a warm water rinse
  • More expensive than silicone or plastic alternatives
  • Less widely available than mainstream brands
What people say
I use stainless steel ones from a company called seed and sprout, they work really well and added bonus my toddler can play with them for ages!
Reddit user
Best Fun Shape

The Tovolo Penguin molds are the rare novelty product that doesn't sacrifice usability. Same trusted silicone construction as the Classic, but kids actually get excited to use them.

What holds up

  • Fun penguin shape engages kids in the kitchen
  • Silicone construction peels away easily from frozen pops
  • Fully dishwasher safe, easy cleanup
  • Backed by Wirecutter's kids cooking tools guide

What to know

  • Novelty shape may produce uneven freezing compared to classic cylinder molds
  • Harder to stack or store than standard rectangular molds
  • Shape may not appeal to older kids or adults
What people say
These fun penguin-shaped molds are made of silicone, so they're easy to peel, and the whole set is dishwasher safe.
Wirecutter