There are a few different things you can place between your hookah tobacco and your lit coals. Generally a screen or aluminum foil will be used. The idea of either is to keep the heat source from touching the hot coals. When the coals actually touch the tobacco, you will get a harsh smoke caused by the burning of the tobacco and molasses. The idea is to basically vaporize the hookah tobacco. This then releases the nicotine and the tasty essences contained in the tobacco, molasses and fruit or flavoring mixed in.

A screen is a good choice for hookah because it can be reused and is great if you travel with the hookah a lot. It’s easier to use than foil: simply place the screen on the tobacco burner, and place the lit coals on top. The downside to the screen is that embers and ash can more easily fall through the larger holes of a screen. The embers and ash can scorch the tobacco and cause a harsh burnt taste.

The aluminum foil is the more practical approach. With foil you have the ability to select the size and amount of holes. The idea of the holes is to move hot air through the tobacco. So it’s generally to have the holes closer to the coals. With the holes closer, the hookah tobacco will burn quicker with more smoke and a more intense flavor. This will make the bowl get harsher quicker, but will be a thicker smoke. With more holes farther away from the coals, a lighter and longer smoke will result. It’s best to keep the holes as small as possible. Ash from the coals easily falls through the larger holes.