🧊 How LoBoy Styrofoam Coolers Keep Things Cold for Days (2025 Update)
At LoBoy, our customers ship everything from seafood and frozen meats to meal kits, baked goods, and temperature-sensitive medical supplies. A question we often get is:
“Just how long will it stay cold in a LoBoy cooler?”
This updated post dives into the science behind it, lab-proven cold retention, and real-world shipping strategies you can trust.
🧪 1. Lab-Tested Cold Retention Performance
In independent third-party ASTM tests, LoBoy styrofoam coolers held ice for up to 134 hours—that’s over 5½ days—in a 90°F environment using just 5 pounds of ice.
This confirms what our customers already know: LoBoy coolers outperform thin-wall retail foam boxes by a wide margin.
In actual shipping scenarios—using pre-chilled contents, LoBoy gel ice packs, and proper sealing—most LoBoy coolers maintain sub-40°F temperatures for 48–96 hours, depending on size and coolant load.
Ideal for seafood, meal kits, pharmaceuticals, and other cold-chain essentials.
📊 2. How Long Will It Stay Cold? (Estimated Chart)
| Cooler Size | Gel Pack Load | Estimated Cold Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 24 qt | 2 × 1 lb | 24–36 hours |
| 48 qt | 2 × 2.5 lb | 48–72 hours |
| 72 qt | 2 × 5 lb | 72–96 hours |
Results assume pre-chilled contents and gel packs. Use of dry ice can extend these times further.
🔬 3. Quick Science: Why EPS Foam Works So Well
Styrofoam’s superior insulation comes from its structure:
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Made of 98% trapped air, EPS disrupts conduction and convection
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Air pockets slow heat transfer, creating a temperature barrier
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Thick-walled, fully fused EPS provides exceptional insulation
Think of it like layering clothing: the thicker and more air-trapped the layer, the longer you stay cool.
❓ 4. Common Questions
How long do LoBoy coolers stay cold?
Typically, they hold temperatures below 40°F between 48–96 hours, depending on cooler size, coolant amount, and external conditions.
Can I ship frozen foods in a LoBoy cooler?
Absolutely. Use LoBoy gel packs or dry ice with the proper ventilation and labeling for transit.
Gel packs or dry ice—which should I use?
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Gel packs: For chilled shipments (34–50°F)
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Dry ice: For frozen items—ensure hazmat labeling and venting.
♻️ 5. Sustainability & Reusability
EPS foam is 100% recyclable. While curbside programs vary, many centers accept EPS.
Even better—LoBoy coolers can be reused multiple times for shipping, storage, or local delivery, reducing single-use waste.
📌 6. LoBoy Cold Tips (Skimmable Checklist)
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✅ Pre-chill coolers and ice packs
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✅ Use gel packs on top and bottom of contents
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✅ Eliminate empty space with crumpled paper or foam peanuts
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✅ Add a waterproof liner for moisture-rich items
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✅ Seal seams using the H-taping method
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✅ Choose overnight or 2-day shipping, Mon–Wed
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✅ Label shipment with “Perishable” and “Keep Refrigerated”
📌 7. Recommended Uses
LoBoy coolers excel in:
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Mailing fresh seafood and shellfish
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Shipping prepared meals and meal kits
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Sending frozen medical supplies and vaccines
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Transporting ambient-sensitive baked goods or beverages
🔗 8. Explore More Resources
🔥 9. Need the Right Cooler & Coolant?
📦 Browse our full line of:
📞 Planning a bulk order or need packing advice?
👉 Talk to our Client Solutions Team
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