10 Ways to Use Activated Charcoal in the Home

Towels, dishcloths, and bathmats are just a few items in your home that are notorious for breeding bacteria, but products made with fibers infused with activated charcoal possess natural microbial and anti-odor properties. Learn more about binchotan (charcoal from a Japanese oak) and see a variety of products from IPPINKA.

Combine 1/2 cup sea salt, 1/4 cup coconut oil, and one teaspoon activated charcoal to form a luxurious, dense scrub that’s perfect for an at-home spa night. The charcoal additive cleanses pores and extracts impurities and dirt. Be forewarned, but not alarmed — the charcoal will stain your skin, so rinse it off with clean soap and water within a few minutes of applying it. It will wash off easily.

Studies testing both activated charcoal and baking soda prove that charcoal is more efficient and effective at eliminating odors (and it’ll get rid of more types of odors, too). Choose pellets over fine-ground granules. You can buy in bulk online or in the aquarium section of your local pet store (aquarium water can benefit from carbon, so it’s always in stock).

A whole piece of activated charcoal will serve your drawers or closet well. Seal in a mesh or breathable cotton to form a sachet. The charcoal will help combat musty odors. You can also use charcoal pellets.