Here are my tips for getting the most from your CherryCools.
Before We Start
Most breast ice packs are made from rigid plastic. The problem with plastic is that it transfers cold way too quickly. You get this harsh, almost burning sensation when it touches your skin.
CherryCools use medical-grade silicone instead. The silicone transfers cold slowly and evenly, which is so much gentler on inflamed tissue. The gradual cooling also means the therapeutic benefits last longer.
The flexibility makes a huge difference too. Many plastic gel packs are heat-sealed around the edges, which creates rigid seams and sometimes sharp edges. Those hard edges against sore or cracked nipples can cause real pain.
CherryCools are molded from one continuous piece of silicone. No seams, no hard ridges, just smooth rounded edges that won't cause additional trauma to sensitive skin.
We've also created a recessed area in the center of our CherryCools to provide clearance for your nipples. It also fits silverettes, so you can layer your recovery approach.
Unlike gel beads, our proprietary gel formulation stays flexible even when completely frozen. CherryCools mold to your body from the moment you put them on, maintaining their therapeutic cold while staying pliable and comfortable.
Alright, enough bragging about our superior design. Here's how you use them.
Getting Started
Step 1. Put your CherryCools in the freezer
Before your first use, place your CherryCools in the freezer for at least 2 hours. I usually keep mine in there overnight so they're ready whenever I need them. When you take them out, wipe away any ice crystals that have formed on the surface.
Step 2. Test your CherryCools aren't too cold
Always test the temperature before applying them to your chest. I hold mine against my inner wrist for a few seconds. The packs should feel cold but not painfully frozen.
Step 3. Apply to your breast(s)
Apply the CherryCools to your breast(s) for 20 to 30 minutes. I personally don't always position them in the middle. If I feel a clogged duct somewhere specific, I move the pack to target that area. Basically, wherever the pain is.
Step 4. Repeat
After removing them, wait at least an hour before reapplying. Then repeat the cycle as needed. During particularly rough days, I alternate between two sets so one is always ready in the freezer.
Personal tip
I use my silverettes inside my CherryCools to protect my nipples when they're cracked. I also use lanolin cream inside the nipple gap when I have cracked nipples. The combination has been incredibly soothing during healing.
Care and Storage
Hand wash the silicone packs in warm water with soap after each use. Make sure they're completely dry before returning them to the freezer. I store mine flat so they maintain their shape.
The freezer bag needs regular washing too. Toss it in the washing machine with hot water every couple of weeks. Again, make sure it's completely dry before putting it back in the freezer.
Safety Notes
Never apply CherryCools directly to your skin. Use a thin layer of fabric between the pack and your chest. Don't use them on broken or irritated skin, and stop if you experience any discomfort.
These packs are for external use only. Don't microwave or heat them. If a pack becomes punctured or starts leaking, discard it immediately. Keep them out of reach of children.
Materials
CherryCools are made from medical-grade silicone with non-toxic gel filling. They're BPA, BPS, and Phthalate-free, and completely reusable. I've been using the same set for months now with no issues.
The quality really matters when you're dealing with something this close to your body during such a vulnerable time. These packs have held up beautifully through constant use.
Check Your Freezer
Just like icepacks, not all freezers are equal. Take a look at our three freezers.
The temperature of your freezer will impact how cold your CherryCools will get. I put mine in our basement freezer since it's the coldest.
We actually hired a guy to come fix the freezer in our kitchen as ice build up was affecting its performance. Jack was gutted he couldn't fix it himself. Here's the before and after.
Once fixed, the freezer temperature dropped from roughly 14°F/-10°C to -4°F/-20°C.
You don't need to nerd out and put sensors in your freezer like Jack did. Just check whether your ice cream is soft. If it is, then it stands to reason that your freezer could be colder and your CherryCool isn't reaching its coldest potential.
There is no such thing as too cold. Our gel is especially formulated to stay pliable at temperatures lower than 0°F/-18°C.
