Chafing fuel

[1] The fuel often contains methanol, ethanol, or diethylene glycol, as these may be burned safely indoors, and produce minimal soot or odour.

The first two fuels are similar with regard to consistency (both having a gel form though viscosities can vary with brand), operating procedures, and product design.

The common gel methanol or ethanol chafing fuel is contained in a steel can with a resealable plug lid in sizes based on burn times.

Two-, four-, and six-hour burn times are the most common sizes of methanol and ethanol chafing fuels available.

The fuel is in a liquid form and thus the canister in which it is contained usually differs by having a more leak resistant screw cap rather than a plug.