How to Reuse Charcoal for Grilling: Save Money & Reduce Waste

Updated at: 10/02/2025

Charcoal grilling adds a unique smoky flavor to our favorite foods, but the cost and environmental impact of constantly buying new charcoal can be significant. We often toss used briquettes without a second thought, unaware of their surprising potential for reuse. Disposing of charcoal contributes to landfill waste, a problem we can actively mitigate with a few simple techniques. Reducing our charcoal consumption not only saves us money in the long run, but also helps protect our planet. The benefits are undeniable – both for your wallet and the environment.

This article will guide you through a practical, step-by-step process for effectively reusing your charcoal, extending its lifespan and minimizing waste. Learn how to properly store and revitalize your used briquettes, ensuring they continue to deliver that delicious smoky flavor without the need for frequent replacements. Let's explore how to make your grilling experience both more economical and environmentally friendly.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Safety Guidelines
  • Never reuse charcoal that has been used to cook food containing hazardous substances (e.g., chemically treated wood). The chemicals could be released into your food during subsequent grilling.
  • Inspect the charcoal carefully before reuse. Discard any pieces that are significantly broken, crumbled, or appear contaminated with ash or food residue. Only use pieces that retain their shape and structure.
  • Ensure the charcoal is completely extinguished before storage. Use water to douse the coals thoroughly, then allow them to cool completely before storing in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area. Improper storage can lead to spontaneous combustion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Fresh and Reused Charcoal

    • Start with a small amount of fresh charcoal.
    • Reuse the remaining charcoal from previous cooking sessions. Shake off excess ash.
    • Add the reused charcoal to the grill, placing it around the fresh charcoal.
    Add the reused charcoal to the grill, placing it around the fresh charcoal.Add the reused charcoal to the grill, placing it around the fresh charcoal.Add the reused charcoal to the grill, placing it around the fresh charcoal.
    Prepare Fresh and Reused Charcoal

  2. Light the Charcoal

    • Light the charcoal from underneath.
    Light the charcoal from underneath.
    Light the Charcoal

  3. Level the Coals

    • Level out the coals using a tool (shown in the video).
    Level out the coals using a tool (shown in the video).
    Level the Coals

  4. Save Charcoal for Next Time

    • After cooking, close the vent to stop the coals from burning and save them for next time.
    After cooking, close the vent to stop the coals from burning and save them for next time.
    Save Charcoal for Next Time

Read more: Lump Charcoal vs. Briquettes: The Ultimate BBQ Fuel Showdown

Tips

  • Don't fill the grill completely with reused charcoal; use a small amount of fresh charcoal to help with ignition.
  • Shake off ash thoroughly from the old charcoal to ensure efficient burning.
  • The amount of fresh charcoal needed depends on the size of your grill and the amount of reused charcoal. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Charcoal That's Too Ashy

Reason: Charcoal with excessive ash contains fewer combustible materials, resulting in less efficient burning and potentially imparting an unpleasant taste to your food.
Solution: Discard charcoal that is mostly ash and use fresh charcoal for optimal grilling performance.

2. Not Properly Storing Reused Charcoal

Reason: Improper storage can lead to moisture absorption, making the charcoal difficult to reignite and possibly spoiling its flavor profile for grilling.
Solution: Store reused charcoal in a completely dry, airtight container away from moisture.

FAQs

Can I reuse charcoal that's been used for cooking meat?
Yes, but only if the charcoal hasn't been used to cook heavily flavored foods like fish or anything with strong marinades. The residual flavors can affect the taste of future grilling. Always ensure the charcoal is completely cooled before storing.
How many times can I reuse charcoal briquettes?
Generally, you can reuse charcoal briquettes 2-3 times before they're too ashy and don't produce enough heat. The number of times will depend on the type of charcoal and how intensely you used it. Observe the charcoal; if it's mostly ash, it's time to replace it.