For many hookah enthusiasts, the quality of the charcoal used plays a huge role in the overall experience. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing session with friends or taking a solo break from the daily grind, the right shisha charcoal can elevate your hookah session by providing steady heat and minimizing unwanted flavors. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is best for you? In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about shisha charcoal, including the different types, their benefits, and how to choose the perfect charcoal for your hookah.

What Is Shisha Charcoal?

Shisha charcoal is the fuel that powers your hookah, providing the necessary heat to vaporize the flavored tobacco (or “shisha”) and create the signature clouds of smoke. Unlike BBQ charcoal, which is designed for grilling, shisha charcoal is specifically made for producing a steady, clean burn without affecting the flavor of the tobacco. The key to a great hookah session lies in choosing the right charcoal — one that offers long-lasting heat without releasing unpleasant odors or chemicals.

There are two main types of shisha charcoal: quick-lighting charcoal and natural (or coconut shell) charcoal. Each has its unique characteristics and pros and cons.

Types of Shisha Charcoal

1. Quick-Lighting Charcoal

As the name suggests, quick-lighting charcoal is designed to light up easily, often with the help of a small amount of lighter fluid or a chemical coating. These charcoals are ideal for beginners or those looking for a fast and convenient way to get their hookah session started.

Advantages of Quick-Lighting Charcoal

•  Convenience: Quick-lighting charcoal is easy to light. Simply use a lighter or match, and it will be ready to use in just a few minutes.
• Time-Saving: These charcoals typically ignite in 1-2 minutes, making them perfect for quick hookah sessions when you’re short on time.
• Widely Available: Quick-lighting charcoal is easy to find and typically sold in most hookah shops or online retailers.
  
  

Disadvantages

•  Chemical Taste: The chemical coating on quick-lighting charcoal can sometimes impart an unpleasant taste or odor to your hookah smoke, especially if the charcoal isn’t fully heated.
• Shorter Burn Time: Quick-lighting charcoal often burns out faster than natural charcoal, meaning you’ll need to replace it more often.
• Ash Production: Quick-lighting charcoals tend to produce more ash, which can cause your hookah to require more frequent cleaning.

2. Natural (Coconut Shell) Charcoal

Natural charcoal, typically made from coconut shells, is a popular choice for hookah enthusiasts who want a clean, long-lasting burn. It doesn’t contain any chemicals or additives and tends to burn hotter and for longer than quick-lighting charcoal, making it ideal for longer sessions or for those who prioritize flavor.

Advantages of Natural Coconut Charcoal

•  Cleaner Burn: Because it’s made from coconut shells or hardwood, natural charcoal burns without releasing harmful chemicals, ensuring a cleaner, more flavorful smoke.
• Longer Burn Time: Coconut charcoal typically lasts much longer than quick-lighting charcoal, giving you a more consistent heat throughout your hookah session.
• Minimal Ash Production: Coconut charcoal produces very little ash, making it easier to maintain and clean your hookah.
• No Chemical Aftertaste: Unlike quick-lighting charcoal, natural coconut charcoal doesn’t leave behind any unpleasant flavors or odors in your smoke, allowing the true flavor of your shisha to shine through.

Disadvantages

• Lighting Time: Natural charcoal takes longer to light compared to quick-lighting charcoal. You’ll need to use a stove, electric burner, or torch to get it going, which can take several minutes.
• Price: Natural charcoal, especially coconut charcoal, can be more expensive than quick-lighting varieties, although the quality is often worth the investment.
• Less Convenience: Lighting natural charcoal can be less convenient, especially if you’re in a hurry or don’t have access to a reliable heat source.

How to Light Natural Shisha Charcoal

Lighting natural charcoal may take a little more effort, but the result is worth it. Here are a few methods to light natural shisha charcoal:

1. Using a Stove or Electric Burner

• Place the charcoal on a stove or electric burner.
• Turn the burner on high heat and let the charcoal heat up for about 5-10 minutes until it turns glowing red on all sides.
• Use tongs to carefully handle the charcoal and place it on the hookah bowl.

2. Using a Blow Torch

• A blow torch is the fastest way to light natural charcoal. Simply use the torch to heat the charcoal until it turns red and begins to glow.
• This method ensures that the charcoal is fully heated and ready to use in just a few minutes.

3. Charcoal Burner

• A charcoal burner is a dedicated heating device designed specifically for lighting natural hookah charcoal. It provides an even, high temperature for lighting your charcoal without the need for a stove or torch.
• Once your charcoal is fully lit, it should have a glowing orange appearance and be ready to place in your hookah bowl.

Choosing the Right Shisha Charcoal

The right charcoal for your hookah largely depends on your preferences and priorities. Here are some things to consider when choosing your ideal shisha charcoal:

1. Burn Time and Heat

• If you plan on having long hookah sessions, natural coconut charcoal is the best choice because it burns hotter and longer.
• Quick-lighting charcoal may be suitable for shorter sessions or casual use, but its burn time tends to be shorter, so you may need to replace it midway through your session.

2. Flavor Quality

• If you’re looking for the best flavor from your shisha, natural charcoal is the clear winner. It doesn’t release any chemicals, allowing you to enjoy the full, authentic taste of your tobacco.
• Quick-lighting charcoal can sometimes impart a slight chemical taste, especially if it hasn’t been fully ignited, which may detract from the flavor of your shisha.

3. Convenience

• Quick-lighting charcoal is incredibly convenient, as it lights up quickly and requires no extra equipment. It’s perfect if you’re new to hookah or in a rush.
• Natural charcoal requires a bit more effort and patience, but the result is a more reliable and high-quality session.

4. Price

• Quick-lighting charcoal is typically more affordable and widely available, but if you’re an avid hookah user, investing in natural charcoal can be a better long-term choice due to its longer burn time and superior flavor quality.

Popular Shisha Charcoal Brands

1. CocoBrico: Known for high-quality coconut charcoal, CocoBrico is a favorite among hookah enthusiasts for its clean burn and long-lasting heat.

2. Tanks: Tanks is a well-regarded brand offering both quick-lighting and natural charcoal options. Their products are affordable and reliable.

3. Pharaoh’s: Pharaoh’s coconut charcoal is praised for its low ash production, minimal odor, and excellent burn time.

4. 3 Kings: A popular choice for quick-lighting charcoal, 3 Kings is known for being easy to light and affordable, although some users report a slightly chemical taste.

Final Thoughts: The Best Shisha Charcoal for You

The type of shisha charcoal you choose will ultimately come down to your preferences for convenience, burn time, flavor, and price. If you’re new to hookah or looking for something quick and easy, quick-lighting charcoal may be your best bet. On the other hand, if you want a cleaner, longer-lasting burn and are willing to put in the extra effort to light it, natural coconut charcoal is an excellent choice.

No matter which charcoal you choose, always remember that the quality of your charcoal is a crucial factor in achieving the best hookah experience. So, invest in the right charcoal, and enjoy smoother, richer, and more flavorful smoke.