Shisha, also known as hookah, is a popular way to enjoy flavored tobacco in many cultures worldwide. One of the key components of a great shisha session is the charcoal used to heat the tobacco. Shisha charcoal directly affects the taste, longevity, and overall quality of the smoking experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned hookah enthusiast or a beginner, this guide will cover everything you need to know about shisha charcoal, including the different types, how to choose the best one, and tips for proper usage and maintenance.
Types of Shisha Charcoal
Shisha charcoal comes in different forms, each with unique characteristics. The three most common types are:
1. Natural Coconut Charcoal
Natural coconut charcoal is considered the best option by many shisha enthusiasts because it burns longer, produces less ash, and does not interfere with the flavor of the tobacco. It is made from compressed coconut shells and contains no chemicals or additives.
Benefits:
- Long burn time (up to 1.5 hours)
- Minimal ash production
- Odorless and tasteless
- Eco-friendly and sustainable
Best For:
Those who prioritize a clean, long-lasting smoking session with minimal environmental impact.
2. Quick-Light Charcoal
Quick-light charcoal is infused with chemical accelerants, allowing it to ignite in seconds when exposed to an open flame. While convenient, it tends to produce more ash and can introduce unwanted flavors to the smoke.
Benefits:
- Lights up quickly with a simple flame
- Ideal for on-the-go or casual smokers
Drawbacks:
- Can alter the taste of shisha
- Produces more ash and odor
- Shorter burn time (30-45 minutes)
Best For:
Beginners or casual users who need quick and easy charcoal for a short session.
3. Bamboo Charcoal
Bamboo charcoal is an emerging alternative that is similar to coconut charcoal but made from bamboo instead. It burns cleanly and is another eco-friendly option.
Benefits:
- Burns longer than quick-light charcoal
- Produces less ash and odor
- Environmentally sustainable
Best For:
Smokers looking for a natural alternative to coconut charcoal.
How to Choose the Best Shisha Charcoal
When selecting shisha charcoal, consider the following factors:
1. Burn Time
Longer-lasting charcoal is preferable as it reduces the need to frequently replace coals. Natural coconut and bamboo charcoal burn the longest.
2. Ash Production
Less ash means a cleaner smoking experience. Coconut and bamboo charcoal produce significantly less ash than quick-light varieties.
3. Flavor Impact
For the best-tasting shisha, use natural charcoal, which does not interfere with the flavor of your tobacco.
4. Lighting Method
If you prioritize convenience, quick-light charcoal is easier to ignite. However, if you prefer a pure experience, invest in a quality charcoal burner to heat natural coals.
5. Sustainability
If environmental impact is a concern, opt for coconut or bamboo charcoal, which are both made from renewable resources.
How to Properly Light Shisha Charcoal
Lighting Natural Coconut or Bamboo Charcoal
- Place the charcoal on an electric burner or charcoal stove.
- Heat the charcoal for about 5-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until fully lit and glowing red.
- Use tongs to carefully transfer the charcoal to your hookah.
Lighting Quick-Light Charcoal
- Hold the charcoal with tongs.
- Use a lighter or match to ignite it.
- Wait for it to stop sparking and turn red-hot before placing it on the bowl.
Tips for a Better Shisha Experience with Charcoal
1. Use the Right Number of Coals
- Small bowls: 2-3 pieces of natural charcoal
- Larger bowls: 3-4 pieces
Too much heat can burn the tobacco, while too little heat can result in weak smoke.
2. Rotate the Charcoal Regularly
Move the coals around the bowl every 10-15 minutes to ensure even heat distribution and prevent overheating.
3. Avoid Blowing on the Charcoal
Blowing on the charcoal to speed up ignition can create excess ash and an unpleasant taste. Instead, let it heat naturally.
4. Store Charcoal Properly
Keep charcoal in a dry, airtight container to prevent moisture absorption, which can make it harder to light.
5. Use a Heat Management Device (HMD)
An HMD helps regulate heat more effectively than foil, extending the life of the charcoal and enhancing the smoking session.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Hookah After Using Charcoal
1. Remove the Ash Regularly
After each session, empty the ashtray and dispose of used charcoal to keep your hookah clean.
2. Wash the Bowl and Stem
Soak the bowl in warm water and use a brush to remove any residue. Clean the hookah stem with a pipe cleaner or brush to remove charcoal buildup.
3. Deep Clean Weekly
For frequent smokers, deep clean your hookah with lemon juice and baking soda to remove stubborn stains and odors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use BBQ charcoal for shisha?
No. BBQ charcoal contains chemicals and additives that can be harmful when inhaled. Always use hookah-specific charcoal.
Q2: Why does my shisha taste bad?
This could be due to low-quality charcoal, improper heating, or ash buildup. Use high-quality natural charcoal and maintain your hookah for the best taste.
Q3: How do I prevent charcoal from blacking out?
Ensure you fully ignite the charcoal before use, and don’t place it directly in the middle of the bowl, as this can suffocate the coals.
Q4: Can I reuse hookah charcoal?
No, once charcoal has been burned, it cannot be reused. Always use fresh charcoal for each session.
Conclusion
Shisha charcoal plays a crucial role in your hookah experience. Choosing the right type, lighting it properly, and maintaining your setup can significantly enhance your smoking session. Natural coconut and bamboo charcoal offer the best experience in terms of longevity, minimal ash production, and flavor purity.
By following the tips in this guide, you can enjoy a smoother, cleaner, and more enjoyable hookah session every time.
Are you a fan of hookah? What type of charcoal do you prefer? Let us know in the comments below!
