Cold Therapy Hacks: Using, Cleaning, Storing

Helpful Tips for Using Your Cold Therapy Machine

Cold Therapy can be a game-changer for recovery after injury or surgery—when used properly. At Source Cold Therapy, we’ve worked with all of the major cold therapy systems and over time we’ve learned the best practices to help you get the most benefit from your device. Below are our expert tips for improving comfort, safety, and effectiveness when using your cold therapy machine.

1. Always Use a Barrier Between the Pad and Your Skin

Cold therapy machines are designed to get very cold, which is important for reducing swelling—but can also put your skin at risk if the pad is applied directly.

Most manufacturers sell pre-cut sterile dressing pads, but you can also create your own barrier using household materials. This not only saves money but also allows you to customize thickness based on your cold sensitivity.

Great alternatives to sterile dressings:

• A thin towel

• A cotton T-shirt

• A soft pillowcase

The key is using a moisture-wicking barrier that protects your skin while still allowing therapeutic cold to pass through.

2. Use Frozen Water Bottles Instead of Ice Cubes

Cold therapy machines require a steady supply of ice to maintain consistent cooling—but going through bags of ice daily can get expensive and inconvenient. A simple solution? Frozen water bottles.

Most cold therapy units will hold up to four (4) frozen 16 oz water bottles at once.

Pro tips:

• Remove labels before freezing

• Keep the bottles clean before placing them in the cooler

• Freeze 8 or more bottles in rotation, so you always have replacements ready

This method also reduces excess water dilution and keeps the pad colder, longer.

3. Add a Programmable Outlet Timer

Most cold therapy machines do not include a built-in timer. Instead of constantly watching the clock, use a programmable outlet timer so your device will shut off automatically.

This method is especially helpful when:

• Resting or napping while icing

• Using therapy overnight under physician instruction

• Managing long recovery sessions

Set it once and relax—no need to get up just to turn the machine off.

4. How to Clean Your Cold Therapy Machine

Keeping your unit sanitized protects it from mineral buildup, mold, odor, and mechanical breakdown—especially if you use it daily.

Quick cleaning method:

1. Add 2 tablespoons of distilled white vinegar to the cooler.

2. Fill with clean water to the fill line.

3. Run the unit for 5–10 minutes to circulate.

4. Turn it off, unplug, and drain completely.

5. Air dry the machine and pad before storing.

For longer storage periods, flush the unit again with clean water before the next use.

5. Draining Your Cold Therapy Pad

If you plan to store the machine for more than a few days, draining the pads fully is important.

Most systems include a detachable pad with a release button or plunger valve. Press the plunger and gently allow remaining water to drain from the pad until empty.

This helps prevent:

• Bacterial growth

• Fungus or odor

• Damage to the internal tubing

6. Best Practices for Storing Your Cold Therapy Machine

For longevity and consistent performance:

• Store your unit in a cool, dry place

• Never leave water inside the cooler or pad

• Avoid direct sunlight or outdoor storage (tubing and plastics can warp)

• Ensure all parts are fully dry before packing away

Choosing the Right Unit for Your Recovery

At Source Cold Therapy, we proudly carry the top brands in cold therapy including Breg, DonJoy, Aircast, and Game Ready. Each cold therapy machine has its own unique benefits depending on your needs (continuous vs. intermittent flow, compression vs. non-compression, pad sizing, run time, etc.).

If you’re not sure which model is right for your recovery, you can compare the most popular units in our detailed breakdown here:
👉 (Cold Therapy FAQ)

Cold therapy is most effective when used safely, consistently, and with proper maintenance. With these tips, you’ll not only improve the comfort and effectiveness of your treatment—but also extend the life of your machine for years to come.