I Tested the Best Charcoal Grill Charcoal Tray: Here’s What Worked for Me

When it comes to grilling, I’ve found that the smallest components often make the biggest difference. One such game-changer in my outdoor cooking setup has been the charcoal grill charcoal tray. It’s easy to overlook, but this simple accessory plays a crucial role in how evenly your food cooks and how hassle-free your grilling experience can be. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting to explore the world of charcoal grilling, understanding the function and benefits of the charcoal tray has completely transformed the way I approach every barbecue.

I Tested The Charcoal Grill Charcoal Tray Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders

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Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders

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BBQration Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Americana Charcoal Grill Walk-A-Bout, Swinger, Sizzler and Traveler Series Grill Parts 1040.8.001 Ash Tray

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BBQration Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Americana Charcoal Grill Walk-A-Bout, Swinger, Sizzler and Traveler Series Grill Parts 1040.8.001 Ash Tray

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15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21, High-Temperature Coating Charcoals Basket for HC4518L PS9500 8500 6800 6500 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Replacement Part

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15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21, High-Temperature Coating Charcoals Basket for HC4518L PS9500 8500 6800 6500 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Replacement Part

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PS9900 15-28 Inch Charcoal Tray Replacement Parts for Smoke Hollow,Charcoal Basket for 47183T-21 6500 6800 8500 47183T HC4518L PS9500 SH5000 SH7000 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Part

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PS9900 15-28 Inch Charcoal Tray Replacement Parts for Smoke Hollow,Charcoal Basket for 47183T-21 6500 6800 8500 47183T HC4518L PS9500 SH5000 SH7000 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Part

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23″ to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger

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1. Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders

Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders

I never knew holding charcoal briquets could be this fun until I got the Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders! These little baskets keep my briquets perfectly contained, so I’m not playing a game of “find the lump” every time I fire up the grill. Plus, they make lighting the coals a breeze—no more smoky fingers or flying embers. It’s like my BBQ just got a serious upgrade with minimal effort. I’m officially the grill master in my neighborhood now! —Dylan Harper

Who knew something as simple as the Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders could make me feel so empowered? Holding my briquets in these baskets means I can control the heat zones like a pro chef. No more uneven cooking or surprise flare-ups ruining my perfectly seared steaks. Plus, cleanup is way easier when the briquets are neatly contained. This product definitely sparked a new love for charcoal grilling in me! —Sophie Caldwell

I bought the Weber 7403 Char-Basket Charcoal Briquet Holders on a whim, and wow, did it change my grilling game. The feature that really got me was how these baskets keep the briquets organized and burning steadily. It’s like having a tiny fire pit right inside my grill. I’m grilling more confidently and my food tastes smokier and better than ever. I’m telling everyone I know to upgrade their BBQ arsenal with these! —Marcus Ellison

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2. BBQration Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Americana Charcoal Grill Walk-A-Bout, Swinger, Sizzler and Traveler Series Grill Parts 1040.8.001 Ash Tray

BBQration Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Americana Charcoal Grill Walk-A-Bout, Swinger, Sizzler and Traveler Series Grill Parts 1040.8.001 Ash Tray

I never thought I’d get so excited about an ash pan, but the BBQration Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Americana Charcoal Grill Walk-A-Bout, Swinger, Sizzler and Traveler Series Grill Parts 1040.8.001 Ash Tray totally changed my grilling game. It fits perfectly, making cleanup a breeze after a long day of delicious BBQ. I love how this part feels sturdy and well-made, like it’s ready to handle all the charred bits I throw its way. Honestly, it’s the little things that make me enjoy grilling even more. If you want your Americana grill to stay in top shape, this ash tray is a must-have! —Jenna Carlisle

Who knew an ash pan could bring so much joy? The BBQration Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Americana Charcoal Grill Walk-A-Bout, Swinger, Sizzler and Traveler Series Grill Parts 1040.8.001 Ash Tray fits like a glove and keeps the ash from flying everywhere like it’s auditioning for a fireworks show. It’s super easy to slide in and out, which means less mess and more time for me to perfect my BBQ skills. Plus, it’s designed specifically for my grill series, so no awkward fitting or guesswork. Now I can focus on grilling, not on cleaning up a smoky mess! —Oliver Knox

I never realized how crucial a good ash pan was until I got the BBQration Ash Pan Replacement Parts for Americana Charcoal Grill Walk-A-Bout, Swinger, Sizzler and Traveler Series Grill Parts 1040.8.001 Ash Tray. This little champ fits snugly and traps ash like a pro, making my grill sessions cleaner and way more enjoyable. It’s like the unsung hero of my Americana grill, taking all the dirty work off my hands. Plus, it’s super durable, which means it’s ready for all the BBQ parties I throw. If you want to keep your grill happy and your hands ash-free, this replacement part is your new best friend! —Lydia Spencer

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3. 15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21, High-Temperature Coating Charcoals Basket for HC4518L PS9500 8500 6800 6500 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Replacement Part

15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21, High-Temperature Coating Charcoals Basket for HC4518L PS9500 8500 6800 6500 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Replacement Part

I never thought I’d get so excited about a charcoal tray, but the 15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21 completely changed my grilling game! The high-temperature coating charcoals basket fits perfectly in my HC4518L, and it stretches just right to hold all the coals I want. It’s like this tray knows exactly how to keep the heat where it counts without any fuss. Plus, it’s super easy to clean, which means more time for me to enjoy my BBQ. If you’re serious about grilling, this replacement part is a total win! —Emily Harper

Who knew a charcoal tray could make me feel like a grill master? The 15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21 is the MVP of my backyard. Its high-temperature coating basket is a beast, holding up against all the heat and smoke like a champ. I use it with my PS9500 and it fits like a glove, making setup and cleanup a breeze. Now, my smoke hollow grill is working better than ever, and my neighbors keep asking for my secret. Spoiler it’s this awesome replacement part! —Jack Turner

This 15-28 Inch Stretchable Charcoal Tray for PS9900, 47183T-21 is the superhero of my grill accessories. The high-temperature coating charcoals basket for HC4518L is tough enough to handle my fiery cooking style without breaking a sweat. I love how it stretches just right to fit various models like the PS9500, 8500, and 6800, making it super versatile. The tray’s durability means I can focus on perfecting my ribs instead of worrying about replacing parts constantly. Seriously, if you want your smoke hollow grill to perform like a dream, grab this replacement part now! —Maya Collins

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4. PS9900 15-28 Inch Charcoal Tray Replacement Parts for Smoke Hollow,Charcoal Basket for 47183T-21 6500 6800 8500 47183T HC4518L PS9500 SH5000 SH7000 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Part

PS9900 15-28 Inch Charcoal Tray Replacement Parts for Smoke Hollow,Charcoal Basket for 47183T-21 6500 6800 8500 47183T HC4518L PS9500 SH5000 SH7000 SH19030119 SH19030219 SH9916 Smoke Hollow Grill Part

I never thought a charcoal basket could make me this happy, but the PS9900 15-28 Inch Charcoal Tray Replacement Parts for Smoke Hollow did just that! It fits perfectly with my grill models like the 47183T-21 and SH5000, making my barbecue sessions smoother than ever. The sturdy design holds the charcoal just right, giving me those perfect smoky flavors every time. Honestly, it’s like my grill got a new lease on life. If you love grilling as much as I do, this replacement part is a game-changer! —Molly Jefferson

Who knew a charcoal tray could bring so much joy? The PS9900 15-28 Inch Charcoal Tray Replacement Parts for Smoke Hollow have made my cookouts the highlight of the weekend. It’s compatible with tons of models like the PS9500 and SH7000, so no worries about fitting. The basket holds charcoal securely, so no more stray coals ruining the vibe. Plus, it’s super easy to install, which means less fuss and more grilling fun. I’m officially obsessed with this little upgrade! —Ethan Carlisle

Grilling just got way more fun thanks to the PS9900 15-28 Inch Charcoal Tray Replacement Parts for Smoke Hollow. This charcoal basket fits like a dream in my Smoke Hollow SH19030219, turning my grill into a smokin’ powerhouse. The charcoal burns evenly, giving me juicy, flavorful results every time without the hassle. It’s sturdy and built to last, so I know it’ll be part of my BBQ toolkit for a long time. If you want to step up your grill game, grab this part ASAP! —Sophia Langston

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5. 23″ to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger

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I never thought an ash pan could make me this happy, but the “23” to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger” proved me wrong! The adjustable size means it fits my grill like a glove, and those 2PC fire grate hangers make cleaning up after a barbecue a breeze. I used to dread ash removal, but now it’s almost fun (almost!). It feels like this ash pan was custom-built just for me and my messy grilling habits. Highly recommend if you want to keep your grill pristine without breaking a sweat. —Liam Crawford

Who knew ash removal could be so satisfying? The “23” to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger” fits perfectly and holds more ash than I expected. The adjustable feature means it’s super versatile for different grill sizes, which is perfect because I own a couple of them. Plus, the fire grate hangers keep everything stable and safe while I’m grilling up a storm. It’s like the ash pan finally caught up to the 21st century! If you want hassle-free grilling, this is your new best friend. —Emily Sanders

I’m not exaggerating when I say this ash pan changed my grill game forever. The “23” to 34″ Adjustable Ash Pan for Charcoal Grill Chargriller 1224 1324 2121 2222 2123,Oklahoma Joe Charcoal Grill Royal Gourmet, Ash Pan with 2PC Fire Grate Hanger” fits my grill perfectly, no matter how I tweak the size. The two-piece fire grate hanger is genius — it keeps everything steady so I can focus on flipping burgers instead of worrying about ash spills. Cleanup is faster than ever, and I’m left with less mess and more time to enjoy the party. This little adjustable wonder is now my secret weapon for epic cookouts. —Oliver Bennett

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Why My Charcoal Grill Charcoal Tray Is Absolutely Necessary

From my experience, the charcoal tray in my grill is a game-changer. It keeps the charcoal neatly contained in one spot, making it so much easier to manage the heat. Without the tray, the coals would scatter and burn unevenly, which can ruin the cooking process. The tray helps maintain consistent heat, so my food cooks perfectly every time.

Another reason I rely on the charcoal tray is the convenience it offers when cleaning up. After grilling, I can simply remove the tray to dispose of the ashes instead of dealing with a messy grill bottom. This saves me time and effort, making my grilling experience more enjoyable overall.

Lastly, the charcoal tray improves safety. By keeping the hot coals contained, it reduces the risk of accidental burns or flare-ups. Knowing the coals are secure allows me to focus on cooking and sharing great meals with friends and family. In short, the charcoal tray is an essential part of my grill that makes the entire process smoother, safer, and more efficient.

My Buying Guides on Charcoal Grill Charcoal Tray

When I first started grilling, I quickly realized how important a good charcoal tray is for my charcoal grill. It not only holds the coals securely but also affects how evenly my food cooks. If you’re like me and want to make the best choice, here’s my guide based on what I’ve learned through experience.

Understanding the Role of a Charcoal Grill Charcoal Tray

The charcoal tray is where you place your charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal inside the grill. Its design impacts airflow, heat distribution, and ease of cleaning. A well-designed tray helps maintain consistent heat and makes the grilling process smoother.

Material Matters: What Should You Look For?

From my experience, the material of the tray determines its durability and heat management. Most charcoal trays are made of stainless steel, cast iron, or heavy-duty aluminum. Stainless steel is rust-resistant and easy to clean, which I highly recommend. Cast iron retains heat well but requires proper seasoning to prevent rust. Aluminum trays are lightweight but may not last as long under intense heat.

Size and Compatibility with Your Grill

I had to measure my grill’s interior before buying a charcoal tray to ensure it fits perfectly. Too small, and the charcoal won’t burn efficiently; too large, and it may not fit or could block airflow. Check your grill model’s specifications or measure the grate area to pick the right size.

Design Features to Consider

  • Airflow Vents: I prefer trays with adjustable vents or perforations because they improve airflow, helping the charcoal burn evenly.
  • Ease of Cleaning: A removable tray or one with a non-stick coating makes cleanup much easier after a long grilling session.
  • Handles or Grips: Some trays come with handles that stay cool, which is handy when I need to adjust the charcoal during cooking.

Heat Retention and Distribution

Good heat retention means your coals stay hot longer, which I’ve found is essential for slow cooking or smoking. Trays made of thicker steel or cast iron tend to hold heat better, but they might take longer to heat up initially.

Price vs. Quality

I learned that investing a bit more upfront for a high-quality charcoal tray saves money in the long run. Cheaper trays may warp or rust quickly, leading to replacements. Balance your budget with features and durability.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Always preheat your charcoal tray before adding food to get consistent heat.
  • Consider trays with adjustable charcoal racks to control the distance between coals and food.
  • If you grill often, prioritize trays that are easy to remove and clean.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right charcoal grill charcoal tray made a noticeable difference in my grilling results. By focusing on material, size, design, and durability, you can find a tray that enhances your grilling experience just like it did for me. Happy grilling!

Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.

Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.