Cigar Ashtray: The 2025 Guide
A cigar ashtray isn't just a simple storage compartment. It's the accessory that protects your surfaces, holds your cigar in place, and enhances your ritual and your home. Whether you're sharing a robusto with friends, enjoying a very aromatic Churchill solo, or hosting a grand soirée, the material , size (number of slots), and design make a real difference. This Atelier Atypique guide helps you choose the right model—from inexpensive to effective to decoratively luxurious —and integrate it seamlessly into your space.
1) The roles of a good cigar ashtray (much more than “putting”)
- Stability : Calibrated notches prevent the cape from rolling, especially on 50–60 rings.
- Dissipation : a sufficiently large bowl contains ash and micro-debris; this avoids fallout on coffee tables and terraces.
- Aesthetics : material, color and finish define the style (modern, classic, lounge bar).
- Durability : resistance to heat and thermal shock; easy maintenance (rinse, gentle wiping).
- Conviviality : number of spaces (from 1 to 6) depending on whether you smoke alone or with others.
2) Key materials : advantages, limitations, uses
Solid wood (cedar, walnut, oak, etc.)
- Advantages : visual warmth, pleasant touch, luxurious aesthetic; possible match with your cedar cigar humidors.
- Points of attention : requires a fireproof insert /bowl (metal/glass) or resistant treatment; avoid incandescent ashes directly on the wood.
- Who is it for? Lovers of premium ambiances, matching furniture, bookcases, and home bars.
Ceramic (glazed)
- Advantages : smooth surface, easy maintenance, wide range of colors (from minimalist white to deep black, including bright shades).
- Points of attention : fear shocks ; avoid metal sinks when washing.
- Who is it for? Daily use at home; attractive price/quality balance.
Glass (or crystal)
- Advantages : transparency, reflections; easy to clean , resists stains well.
- Points of attention : sometimes heavy weight; watch out for falls .
- Who is it for? Contemporary interiors; weddings with whisky sets .
Metal alloy / aluminum
- Advantages : robustness, modernity , colored metal variations (black, gold, green, purple, gray), very modern triangular or geometric lines.
- Points of attention : can heat up a little; use pads under the base.
- Who is it for? Terraces, designer interiors, heavy-duty use (easy to wipe clean).
- Ex.: triangular design with 3 “Vertex” type notches : compact, stable, clean look — perfect for sharing .
3) How many locations ? (from 1 to 6 depending on your evenings)
- 1 location : solo tasting, office, discreet balcony.
- 2 locations : duo or couple, compact format, ideal balance between privacy and practicality .
- 3 locations : trio of friends, very stable triangular shape .
- 4 locations : square/classic, coffee tables, diners.
- 5 to 6 locations : shared events; pay attention to the size of the bowl (larger volume of ashes).
Tip: If you smoke mostly large modules (54–60 ring), choose wide notches and enough clearance so as not to “jam” the wrapper.
4) Size, ring gauge and notches: the perfect match
The ring gauge (cigar diameter) influences ergonomics. A robusto 50 is easily wedged; a gordo 60 requires a more flared notch. For torpedos (tip), choose a deeper notch that accommodates the conical shape without constraint.
Simple rule: if you've ever cracked a cape while reinstalling the module, the notch geometry wasn't right — upgrade to a wider or deeper model.
5) Combination ashtrays (whiskey glass + cigar holder)
The ashtray + whiskey glass combo is a big favorite among spirits lovers: a base holds the glass, a notch holds the cigar.
Why we like it :
- Stylish all-in-one for solo time at the end of the day.
- Less handling, less risk of falling .
To check : diameter of the glass (tulip/old fashioned), stability (weight of the base), width of the notch .
6) Style & decor: make the accessory interact with the room
- Bar/woodwork : dark solid wood + metal/black insert.
- Contemporary minimalism : white ceramic or clear glass with straight lines.
- Lounge chic : gold or satin black alloy; triangular/monobloc design.
- Outdoor chic : alloy/aluminum, non-slip pads, sufficient weight for wind.
- Gift : choose a set (ashtray + cup + holder), with case - immediate high-end effect.
Inspiration & ranges seen on the site (selection of accessories, cases, humidors, cutters, humidifiers): preview of the “cigar humidor” collection.
7) Practical: maintenance & longevity
- After use : let the embers cool ; empty into a heat-resistant bag.
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Cleaning :
- Ceramic/glass: warm water + mild dishwashing liquid; no abrasive sponges.
- Alloy: damp cloth + dry wipe; avoid chlorinated products.
- Solid wood: empty the insert, wipe ; feed the wood occasionally (except areas in direct contact with the embers).
- Odors : Regular rinsing prevents accumulation; for glass, a dash of vinegar then rinsing.
- Pads : Replace if worn to protect surfaces.
8) Safety & standards (useful, simple, essential)
An ashtray is not an active device but is part of the fire environment.
- Never leave embers within reach of flammable items (curtains, papers).
- Outdoors, beware of the wind : a deep basin limits blowing away.
- If using a torch lighter, wait a few seconds before putting the cigar down to avoid any hot spots coming into contact with the material.
- A cigar cutter cannot produce a flame ; transportation restrictions mainly apply to lighters (airplanes, public places). Depending on the location, only a simple BIC lighter may be acceptable; check local and establishment safety standards .
9) Choose according to your profile
- Beginner : 2-notch ceramic, generous bowl - easy to live with and inexpensive .
- Aficionado : 3-notch alloy (triangular type) — compact, stable, compatible with large modules .
- Aesthete : solid wood + insert, or heavy crystal-style glass — decorative luxury .
- Sharing : 4 to 6 notches, ceramic/wedding ring — quick cleanup after party.
- Whisky lover : glass + notch combo ; think about the diameter of the glass.
10) Offer a cigar ashtray (successful gift)
- Know the place of use (interior/exterior), the style (classic/design), the dominant colors .
- Think matching kit : ashtray + cigar cutter + lighter + case/travel box.
- Include a personalized note ; for a birthday/wedding, a luxury set in a box is a hit.
- Pair with a case or travel box if the person travels often (see our selections: cases/boxes, humidors, cups).
11) Purchase checklist (copyable)
- Material: solid wood / ceramic / glass / alloy .
- Locations: 1 → 6 (depending on your times).
- Notches: width for 54–60 ring ? depth for torpedo ?
- Bowl: deep ? easy to empty?
- Non-slip pads, sufficient weight (terrace).
- Maintenance: easy rinsing, no harsh products.
- Style: decorative agreement (table, bar, library).
- Whiskey glass option: compatible diameter, stable base.
12) Atypical Workshop Recommendations (examples of uses)
- Triangular 3 notches in alloy : clean and solid look for living rooms/terraces, black, gold, green, purple, gray varieties (versatile, sharing).
- Solid wood + insert : warm luxury , in harmony with cedar cellars.
- Glass : shine and easy maintenance, ideal for coffee tables.
To explore all the options, go to the “cigar ashtrays” collection then browse the other accessories (cigar cutter, case, humidifier) to create a cohesive set .
FAQ
Which material ages best?
For everyday use, ceramic and alloy are very durable and easy to maintain. Glass is visually impeccable but is resistant to shocks; solid wood is sumptuous if it includes an insert and is carefully maintained.
How many locations to receive?
From 3 notches , you switch to “sharing mode”. 4 is suitable for most living rooms; 5–6 if you entertain often.
Can an ashtray go outside?
Yes, especially alloy (weight + strength). Choose non-slip pads and a deep bowl to limit ash flying.
Are large modules (60 rings) a problem?
Provide wide notches ; triangular/alloy ashtrays work well for this. If necessary, place the cigar at a slight angle .
