Question on lighting lump with 91% soaked cotton balls

clemsontyger97

I've read through some discussions, but most evolve into the myriad ways of lighting the lump.   I've always used the starter cubes but going to give the alcohol-soaked cotton balls a try.   For those who have used this method, I'm just curious how many you use?  3-4 for a lower temp burn and maybe 5-6 for regular grilling?

pab

I usesd to use 91% alcohol to light my lump but never put it on cotton balls, I just squirted it around like lighter fluid. You need to be observant when using alcohol as you cannot always see the flames and they are intense. While it worked fine I switched methods after using a couple of bottles as not all groceries around me carried the 91% and making a trip to a pharmacy to be able tolight my egg seemed silly to me. We always have paper towels and cooking oil at my house so that is what I use now.

Hntnhrd

Never tried alcohol. Oil and paper towel works good for me so that's what I stick with . 

dldawes1

I have used 91% only (no cotton balls) for over a year. It is the easiest and most convenient method for me. I've tried lots of methods suggested, but this is what I have found best for me.

clemsontyger97

I've been pleasantly surprised by using only a couple of cotton balls the last two cooks.   Gave them a good soak and within minutes I had hot coals.  For now this is my go-to.

Eoin

Hntnhrd said:

Never tried alcohol. Oil and paper towel works good for me so that's what I stick with . 

I roll up pieces of paper towel, put a knot in the middle to keep them together, stuff in a pickle jar and pour in some sunflower oil.  Maybe 10-12 in the jar, the oil disperses through all the towels over time.  Open the lid, pull a couple out and off you go.