Coil incense
Coil incense burns slowly along a spiral. One coil can last for hours.
How to burn a coil
Hang it or raise it
A coil goes out where it rests on a cold surface. Hang it from the center or set it on a small wire stand.
Light the outer end
Fire starts at the outside and crawls inward. Wave out the flame so only an ember glows.
Snap it to set the time
Want only part of a coil? Break it at that point. The ember stops at the gap.
A coil is a clock you can smell.
What to look for
A coil burns for hours. Don't leave home with one lit. Hang it clear of curtains, over a heatproof tray, with fresh air moving through.
Coil incense
Hand-picked pieces are on the way.
Good to know
How long does coil incense burn?
From a couple of hours to a full day, depending on size, and the box usually says. The huge coils hanging in Hong Kong temples burn far longer.
Is coil incense the same as a mosquito coil?
No. Coil incense is wood and herbs burned for scent or offering. Mosquito coils contain insecticide to repel bugs. They look alike, but don't swap one for the other.
Why does my incense coil keep going out?
It is probably touching something cold, or it got damp. Raise it so air reaches every side, and keep unused coils sealed.
