Turkey Thawing Time Calculator
By Santaji GadepatilinUpdated October 27, 2026
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How to use this calculator
Enter the turkey’s weight. Thawing times for the fridge and for cold water are calculated.
Rules used (US Department of Agriculture guidance)
- Fridge (4 °C / 40 °F or below): about 24 hours per 4 lb (1.8 kg).
- Cold water: about 30 minutes per lb, in a leak-proof bag, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Example
A 7 kg (15.4 lb) turkey needs about 3.9 days in the fridge or about 7.7 hours in cold water.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a turkey take to thaw in the fridge?
About 24 hours for every 4–5 lb (1.8–2.3 kg).
How long in cold water?
About 30 minutes per lb (about 1 hour per kg). Change the water every 30 minutes and cook immediately after.
Can I thaw a turkey on the counter?
No. The outside can reach unsafe temperatures while the inside is still frozen.