Save Egg Cartons To Make Lighting Your Charcoal Grill Easier

Forget the lighter fluid — an egg carton is all you need to get those coals blazing. It might sound unconventional, but paper egg cartons have the perfect blend of flammability and structure to give your charcoal that initial push without the chemical aftertaste. Just pack each compartment with charcoal pieces, close it up, and light from below. The slow, steady burn from the paper kick-starts the coals, giving you a solid base for grilling without the usual hassle. It's one of those barbecue-ready grilling hacks you'll wish you knew sooner – and you'll look like you've got grilling down to a science.

Here's a bonus: this hack is practically made for grilling on the go. Whether you're headed for a beach cookout, a mountain campsite, or just a day at the park, packing a couple of egg cartons with your charcoal can save space and spare you the mess and stink of lighter fluid. In short, it's practical, efficient, and sustainable, which is everything you want in a grilling hack. 

Once those coals are heated up, your grill's primed for whatever's on the menu — from classic steaks to unconventional choices like grilled hard-boiled eggs — yes, that's actually a thing. You have to use up those eggs from the carton somehow, right?

The compact design of the carton keeps the coals contained, helping them heat evenly and ignite together. For an extra boost, add a handful of kindling on top, which can be helpful if your charcoal is less than fresh. The carton helps to create a controlled fire that gradually warms the coals without the need for lighter fluid's sometimes too-fast action and chemical-heavy fumes.

This method is especially handy for coaxing old charcoal back to life. If you've got a half-empty bag of coals that didn't quite survive the last cookout season, no need to throw it out. Just close the carton after loading, place it under the grill, and light it up — the carton traps heat, warming even stubborn coals. Once you're up and grilling, set a reminder to make sure you give those grates a solid clean every time so yesterday's flavors don't hijack today's meal.