Where did Binchotan charcoal come from?
It was during the Edo Period (17th century) that a man called Binchuya Chozaemon made it popular, but the origins are not completely clear. A form of Binchotan charcoal (sometimes referred to as 'white charcoal') is thought to have been introduced to Japan by a Japanese monk and scholar called Kukai 1,200 years ago.
What is the process for making Binchotan charcoal?
This ancient process for making Binchotan charcoal is very interesting, and also intense. The wood needs to be raised to very high temperatures in a kiln, and then rapidly cooled by being covered in a mixture of soil, sand and ash. This gives the charcoal it’s very hard and smooth appearance, and if you tap it, you’ll hear a clear, metallic sound.
What makes it a good water filter?
Not only does Binchotan charcoal remove impurities from water, it can also release minerals back into your bottle, improving health and taste. The surface of the charcoal is full of tiny holes, which draw in contaminants like chlorine and bind them, away from the water you drink. There’s so many holes in Binchotan charcoal that the surface area of just 1 gram is 500mᒾ.
What capacity does one charcoal stick filter?
It will filter about 1.1L of water for 3 months if used every day. If you’ve got a larger container or jug you want to filter, just increase the number of charcoal sticks accordingly.
How long does each stick last?
3 months, if using every day and in our ‘Eau Good’ bottle, or another 800ml bottle. Afterwards, you can just boil it for 10 minutes to ‘recharge’ the charcoal, and then use it for another 3 months.
Should I throw away my charcoal stick when it’s finished?
Absolutely not, one of the wonderful things about this special charcoal is that it has so many great secondary uses. It can remove the moisture from the air in your wardrobe, helping your clothes avoid becoming mouldy, it also absorbs bad smells, so it is great to use in a cat litter or nappy bin. It even adds nutrients to the soil of houseplants if you break it up and add to the pot.
Does the charcoal need to be washed or cleaned? There is no need to, it can go straight from the packaging into your bottle.
Can I add things to flavour my water if I also use a charcoal stick?
If you want to use your Binchotan charcoal water filter, you CANNOT add anything else to the carafe or bottle.
Do you sell Binchotan charcoal by itself?
We do sell charcoal by itself, simply go to the Accessories page to view products.
Is charcoal dangerous if swallowed?
No, it isn’t dangerous to swallow charcoal. Active charcoal actually has many medical uses such as being used to treat flatulence, high cholesterol and upset stomachs.
Am I able to wash my bottle with soap?
When washing your bottle, carafe or other vessel with soap, make sure you remove the charcoal stick first.
Can it be used with any water source?
Our charcoal should only be used where the tap water is advised safe to drink by local authorities.
How should I store it?
Store in a cool place and avoid direct sun light on your bottle/ jug. Consume the filtered water within 24hrs.
