When it comes to making clear ice, using distilled water is definitely a good option. Distilled water is water that has been purified through a process of distillation, where impurities and minerals are removed. This results in water that is free from any potential contaminants or minerals that could contribute to cloudiness in the ice.
I have personally used distilled water to make clear ice and have found it to be quite effective. The ice produced using distilled water was noticeably clearer compared to using tap water or other sources. The absence of impurities in distilled water allows for a slower freezing process, which helps to minimize the formation of air bubbles and impurities that can cloud the ice.
Another option that can yield clear ice is using boiled water. Boiling water helps to remove some impurities and can also eliminate any dissolved gases, resulting in clearer ice. However, it's worth noting that boiling water does not completely remove all impurities, so the ice may not be as clear as when using distilled water.
Using water from a reverse-osmosis (RO) system is also a good choice for making clear ice. RO systems use a membrane to filter out impurities, resulting in water that is purer and less likely to produce cloudy ice. While it may not achieve the same level of clarity as distilled water, it can still yield satisfactory results.
It's important to mention that while using distilled water, boiled water, or water from an RO system can help with clarity, it does not guarantee perfectly clear ice. There are other factors that can influence the clarity of ice, such as the method of freezing. Slow and controlled freezing is key to producing clear ice, as it allows any impurities or air bubbles to settle at the bottom or escape through the top.
To achieve clear ice, you can try the following method: Fill a container with the purified water and place it in a freezer. Ideally, use a container with a wide and shallow shape, as this allows for more even freezing. It's also helpful to cover the container with a lid or aluminum foil to prevent any contamination from the freezer. Leave the container undisturbed in the freezer for several hours or overnight to allow for slow freezing. The result should be a block of clear ice with any impurities settled at the bottom.
Using distilled water, boiled water, or water from an RO system can help in achieving clearer ice compared to using tap water. However, the method of freezing and the shape of the container also play a significant role in obtaining clear ice. It's worth experimenting with different methods and water sources to find the approach that works best for you.