Natural coconut charcoal is not like quick-light charcoal: it contains no additives that make it ignite in seconds, so it needs the right method to give even heat without odd smells or taste. This guide walks you through the steps in order.
- Light the cubes on an electric coil burner or gas stove, not with a lighter.
- Turn them regularly until every side glows and turns grey.
- Never put charcoal on the bowl while black patches remain.
- The number of cubes depends on bowl and tobacco, often 3 cubes of 25 or 27 mm.
- Always light and use charcoal in a well-ventilated place.
What you need
- An electric charcoal burner or a gas stove.
- Tongs to turn and move the cubes.
- A heat-resistant surface away from anything flammable.
- Good ventilation.
Lighting steps
1. Place the cubes on the burner and switch it on.
2. After a few minutes the bottom face starts to glow; turn the cube onto a new face.
3. Keep turning until every face is lit and covered in a light grey ash with no black patches. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes depending on the burner.
4. Move the cubes to the bowl with tongs and place them around the edges.
5. If the heat is too strong, remove a cube or move it outward; if too weak, add one.
How many cubes per bowl?
There is no fixed number, because it depends on bowl size, tobacco and conditions. With 25 or 27 mm cubes, 3 cubes is typical for a standard bowl. Start with fewer and add as needed.
Safety note: burning charcoal releases carbon monoxide, so always light and use it in a well-ventilated place and never leave it in a closed room. Charcoal that has absorbed moisture is harder to light; see our storage guide.
Steps at a glance
- BurnerCubes on an electric or gas burner.
- TurningTurn until every face is lit.
- CheckThe cube is fully grey.
- BowlPlace the cubes and adjust the heat.
Need natural shisha charcoal in bulk?
Coconut cubes in 25 and 27 mm with a choice of packing.
FAQ
Can I light coconut charcoal with a lighter?
No. Natural charcoal needs steady heat from an electric or gas burner until it is fully lit.
Why does the taste seem off?
Usually the charcoal went on before it was fully lit, or the heat is too high.
Which size is better, 25 or 27 mm?
Both are popular; 27 mm is the standard size in Europe and Germany.
