Open the top lid and place five to six ice cubes inside. Place the lid back on the snow cone maker and make sure at least an inch of space is left from the top of the lid to the ice cubes.
Plug the snow cone maker in a power outlet and place a wide-brimmed cup or bowl beneath the ice shoot. Press the power button on the top of the unit until all the ice is out of the shoot. Wipe down any excess water with a cloth.
Add 3 to 6 tbsp. of flavored syrup to the shaved ice to create a snow cone. Pour the syrup over the ice evenly so it soaks down into the bottom of the bowl or cup. Add 1/2 to 1 cup of soda or juice to make a slushy out of the shaved ice. Stir the slushy to get the desired consistency. Add more ice to the slushy if you want it to be thicker.
Unplug the snow cone maker from the power outlet and press the cover release button. Turn the upper housing counterclockwise to remove it. Wipe the entire unit down with a damp cloth.