While most cigar smokers use normal cigarette ashtrays for their premium cigars, true aficionados opt for more classy options. In order to find the best ashtrays for your specific taste and needs you will need to take a number of things into considerations, such as size, portability, materials, looks, and most importantly – price. With these accessories the prices tend to get quite loose especially in the high-end.
In this guide we will go through some of our favorite models for this year, show you a comparison between them, and take you deep into the guide section where you will learn all there is to know about ashtrays in general…
- Cigar Ashtrays Comparison Chart
- Best Overall-Prestige Import Group – Triangular Maple Lacquer 3 Cigar Ashtray
- Top Indoor Ashtray-Mantello Large Ceramic Cigar Ashtray
- Best Outdoor Ashtray – The Big Easy Tobacco Accessories
- Square Grid Cigar Ashtray
- Best Choice for Collectors-Limited Edition Large Arturo Fuente Porcelain Cigar Ashtray
- Elegant Design-Quality Importers Ashtray 4 Cigar Crystal Ashtray
- Cigar Ashtray Buyer’s Guide
- 6 Things To Consider When Selecting The Best Cigar Ashtray
- Material Types
- Keeping it Clean
- Benefits
- Ashing
- Final Thoughts
Cigar Ashtrays Comparison Chart
Product | Capacity | Material | Rating |
---|---|---|---|
Prestige Import Ashtray![]() | 3 | Maple and stainless steel | |
Mantello Ashtray![]() | 4 | Glazed ceramic | |
The Big Easy Ashtray![]() | 12 | Polished pewter | |
Limited Edition Ashtray![]() | 4 | Porcelain | |
Quality Importers Ashtray![]() | 4 | Crystal |
Best Overall-Prestige Import Group – Triangular Maple Lacquer 3 Cigar Ashtray
The Triangular Maple Lacquer 3-Cigar Ashtray from the Prestige Import Group is popular among cigar enthusiasts. You can find this product in many top ten cigar ashtray lists and reviews online, apart from this one. It also has high product ratings on most online selling platforms.
With all the features you can enjoy from this cigar ashtray, it is easy to see why it’s a crowd favorite. What’s more, if the high cigar ratings explained anything at all, it is that the Triangular Maple Lacquer Ashtray can deliver when it comes to aesthetics and performance.
Our Rating:
This ashtray features a triangular design that allows you to rest up to three cigars at one time. The larger grooves can accommodate thicker cigars, which is a huge plus for most cigar smokers. The gorgeous finish consists of a combination of maple wood with black accents, which really make this ashtray pop.
Pros
- Can be used for three cigars at once
- Beautiful maple finish
- Deep ash reservoir
- Stainless steel ash reservoir
- Easy to clean
- Low price
Cons
- Cannot hold thinner cigars
- Surface is prone to scratches
Conclusion
Elegant, classic, and built tough, this durable ashtray can easily accommodate up to three thick cigars are one time, which is perfect for the cigar smoker who loves to entertain. The stainless steel ash reservoir is deep, so it will neatly contain all your ashes and can easily be removed for cleaning.
Apart from its functional advantages, this option also makes for a stunning tabletop ashtray that will enhance the look of your indoor or outdoor space. The black accents give its lacquer finish an elegant twist, something you won’t get from a cheap cigar ashtray. I gave this model a rating of five out of five stars.
Top Indoor Ashtray-Mantello Large Ceramic Cigar Ashtray
If you are in the market for indoor ashtrays, you’ll find it difficult to do better than the Large Ceramic Cigar Ashtray from Mantello Cigars.
Our Rating:
This model is made out of thick, glazed ceramic and features a beautiful, dark onyx finish. The ash reservoir is deep and will safely contain your ashes. The unique design also allows users to safely rest up to four cigars at a time. The bottom is equipped with felt bumpers that will protect the surface of a table, while also preventing the ashtray from sliding during use.
While this option is at the top of the heap when it comes to indoor ashtrays, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to know it can stand up to the harsh conditions of the outdoors. It is 100% kiln-cured and can withstand rust and corrosion.
It is a bit more expensive than the others. That said, all it takes is one look for you to know it is not a cheap cigar ashtray that will disappoint and disrupt your cigar-smoking experience.
Still, with its healthy combination of durability and elegance, this tabletop ashtray has been featured in other top ten cigar ashtray lists and cigar reviews. Most of the consumer cigar ratings explained how you could get the most bang for your buck if you buy it.
Pros
- Kiln cured
- Can be used for four cigars at once
- Deep ash reservoir
- Heat resistant
- Felt bumpers on bottom
Cons
- Can chip or break if dropped
- Not recommended for outdoor use
Conclusion
Elegant, heavy, and featuring a gorgeous finish, this model is perfect for use in your home office, or when you’re entertaining friends or hosting a party. The deep ash reservoir is perfect for thicker cigars, while the felt bumpers keep the ashtray firmly in place. This is a great buy if you’re looking for a classy ashtray designed for indoor use. I gave this model a rating of four and a half out of five stars.
Best Outdoor Ashtray – The Big Easy Tobacco Accessories
Are you a cigar enthusiast who loves smoking outside where the sun shines and the wind blows? If you are, you would love the Square Grid Cigar Ashtray from the Big Easy Tobacco Company.
Square Grid Cigar Ashtray
Our Rating:
This extra-large ashtray is perfect for outdoor use and can handle up to twelve cigars at once. It’s deep ash reservoir will prevent ashes from blowing out, while neatly containing the ashes in the deep reservoir below the surface. The wide grooves allow you to use this model for thinner cigars and cigars up to a sixty ring gauge.
Handcrafted and polished, this ashtray features an art deco style that would look good on any table. It is a bit on the heavy side at 2.38 pounds. Even so, since it can accommodate up to 12 cigars all at the same time, this minor flaw should be easy to overlook.
The grid design is unique, but it has more uses other than aesthetics. It makes the ashtray very easy to use, which is important since you would not want anything to distract you from enjoying your cigar.
Pros
- Made out of polished pewter
- Can be used to rest twelve cigars at one time
- Durable
- Deep ash reservoir
- Perfect for outdoor use
Cons
- Can break if dropped
- Not designed for cigars over sixty ring gauge size
Conclusion
This elegant, extra-large ashtray is perfect for outdoor use and can handle up to twelve cigars at once. Its beautiful finish and innovative design gives it a very edgy, modern look that most cigar smokers will love. I gave this model a rating of four and a half out of five stars.
Best Choice for Collectors-Limited Edition Large Arturo Fuente Porcelain Cigar Ashtray
Finally, rounding off this list is the Crystal Cigar Ashtray from Quality Importers Trading. This ashtray features a beautiful symmetry that every cigar lover will appreciate. If you are looking for a cigar accessory that will enhance your home interior, this product is for you. It is a luxury piece that will start conversations and keep them going during parties and social gatherings.
Our Rating:
This beautiful ashtray showcases a classic cigar box design that Arturo Fuente is known for. Aside from its eye-catching finish, it features a deep ash reservoir and can be used to rest up to four cigars at one time. Made out of a beautiful polished porcelain, this model is perfect for indoor use.
Pros
- Beautiful finish
- Can rest up to four cigars at once
- Low price
- Deep ash reservoir
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Can break or chip if dropped
- Not designed for outdoor use
Conclusion
This elegant, colorful ashtray is perfect for the collector or the indoor cigar smoker. The cigar’s ability to rest up to four cigars at once is another great selling point. However, since it’s made out of porcelain I would not recommend this model for outdoor use. I gave this ashtray a rating of four and a half out of five stars.
Elegant Design-Quality Importers Ashtray 4 Cigar Crystal Ashtray
Finally, rounding off this list is the Crystal Cigar Ashtray from Quality Importers Trading. This ashtray features a beautiful symmetry that every cigar lover will appreciate. If you are looking for a cigar accessory that will enhance your home interior, this product is for you. It is a luxury piece that will start conversations and keep them going during parties and social gatherings.
Our Rating:
This elegant ashtray from Quality Importers is designed for indoor use only. It’s made out of black tinted crystal, which gives it a classy, distinguished look that will make it a perfect addition to your man cave or home office. It can hold up to four cigars at one time and features a deep ash reservoir that’s designed to safely contain ashes, for easier cleanup.
Pros
- Can hold up to four cigars at once
- Made from crystal
- Perfect for indoor use
- Low price
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Can break, crack, or chip if dropped
- Not recommended for outdoor use
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the perfect cigar ashtray for your study, then your search is over. This beautiful, dark, crystal cigar ashtray will be the perfect addition to any man cave or home office. It can hold up to four cigars at once, so it’s also a great choice for the cigar smoker who loves to host. I gave this model a rating of four and a half out of five stars.
Cigar Ashtray Buyer’s Guide
One of the most important accessories that cigar smokers tend to overlook is the ashtray. While it’s true that you can still use a cigarette ashtray for your cigar, the size and amount of ash you’ll get from just a single cigar can quickly fill up a cigarette ashtray. Additionally, ashtrays designed for cigarette use don’t have the proper sized grooves that will allow you to place your cigar down momentarily. But before you run out and buy an ashtray specifically designed for cigar use, there are a few things you’ll need to consider. Functionality is just as important as the design.
6 Things To Consider When Selecting The Best Cigar Ashtray
- Quality Materials and Craftsmanship – sturdy, solid and well made; it won’t fall apart, rust, or melt when used or washed;
- Reliability – self-explained but a cigar ashtray you can depend on to do the job;
- Functionality – to elevate a cigar from touching any surface and able to hold ash, used matches, and cigar butts – fit for purpose;
- Design – purposely created with the cigar smoker in mind, the best cigar ashtrays can accommodate a wide range of cigar ring sizes and be easily washed (or placed in dishwasher).
- Appeal factor – should look and feel solid, and be attractive/impressive to use – after all we have chosen the cigar lifestyle for pure pleasure; and
- Value for Money – a cigar ashtray is not a once-off item, so it should be made to last for years.
Durability
There are a variety of materials to choose from ranging from wood and metal to plastic and glass. When you’re choosing a new ashtray obviously durability will be the most important characteristic to consider. The goal here is to find a model that’s designed to last and one that will have grooves that are large enough to accommodate your cigar.
How Many Ashtrays Do I Need?
This will depend on how many smokers are in the home, how often you smoke, and where you smoke. If you love smoking both inside and outside the home, and you have multiple smoking spots, then you may need to keep a few ashtrays around the house and in your outdoor designated smoking spots.
Functionality
You need an ashtray that can do its job properly. You don’t want to purchase a new model and have your cigar falling off to the side and creating a huge mess, especially considering how much ash comes from a single cigar. You’ll want a model that can easily hold your cigar and keep it free from debris, ash, and prevent it from going out.
Construction
The model you choose should be able to accommodate a variety of sizes. This will be especially important if you love smoking both slim and wide cigars. Because of this, keep ring size in mind when you’re shopping around for a new ashtray. Typically, the cigar holder portion of the ashtray which should be very large, however there are smaller models available.
Design
In terms of aesthetics, most buyers want a design that showcases their own unique style. This will be a matter of personal preference. Fortunately, there is a wide range of styles and designs to choose from. Since cigar smoking is now more popular than ever, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a variety of styles and designs that will perfectly suit your smoking needs and taste.
Pricing
The cost of an ashtray will depend on its size and the type of materials it’s made out of. But like with most things, you get what you pay for. Spending more and investing in a high-quality ashtray that’s well made will give you more bang for your buck.
Do Your Research
You may think that something as simple as an ashtray won’t really require much research on your part, but characteristics such as size diameter, capacity, and style, all play an important role in terms of which model you choose and which type will work the best for your smoking needs.
Smoking Environment
Where you smoke is just as important as what type of cigars you smoke, at least when it comes to choosing an ashtray. Do you smoke indoors or outdoors? You’ll come across products that are designed for both indoor or outdoor use. However, if you normally bring your ashtray with you outside and also smoke outdoors, then you can easily get away with buying a model specifically designed for both types of use. But if you solely smoke outside, then the ashtray is going to be left exposed to the elements, so you’ll need to ensure you purchase a model that’s specifically designed to handle these types of conditions.
Capacity and Grooves
Do you find yourself emptying out your ashtray each time you use it? If not, then you’ll need a model that can handle a large capacity of ash without impacting your smoking experience. This means you’ll need a bigger ashtray that can handle more ash, to prevent your cigar from being coated in it each time you place your cigar down in one of the grooves. Additionally, the size of the grooves in the ashtray will determine whether or not it will work for you based on the kind of cigars you normally smoke.
Are you the only smoker in the house? If there’s more than one smoker in the home, then you’ll need a larger ashtray. This way, you can avoid a huge mess in your smoking environment.
Style Options
You also notice that most standard models are built in a couple of different ways. Some are exposed and feature a hollowed-out portion located directly in the center that will help collect all of the tobacco residue and ash. The other option is a hollow center with a cover that features slots. With this design, the ash falls from the top, down through the slots, which helps to cut down on the mess and prevents you from resting your cigar in old ashes. This style is a great choice for indoor use since it keeps the ashes hidden and prevents them from flying away should you use a fan or if the room is particularly drafty. This type is usually marketed as windproof. Because of this, it’s also a good choice for outdoor use, especially on windy days. Models that don’t come equipped with a protective cover should be used indoors only.
Material Types
Glass ashtrays: These are by far the most common and they’re usually the most affordable. Basically, this type of material is perfect for catching ashes, especially crystal which is very easy to clean. It can handle easily handle high temperatures. Glass also works to reduce stains and matches well with any type of decor.
Ceramic: This is another great option since it’s so easy to clean and the surfaces are very smooth. However, ceramic is very fragile, yet it does create a more casual and modern look compared to glass ashtrays.
Silicone: Silicone is another popular material commonly used in modern ashtrays. This material is very resistant to high temperatures, and it also comes in a wide variety of colors. Additionally, silicone is a type of rubbery, flexible material so the ashtray is basically indestructible. If you choose this style you won’t have to worry about the ashtray breaking should you drop it, unlike glass or ceramic models.
This material also makes the ashtrays easier to clean so you can reach each crook and crevice easily. Models made out of this type of material are also often multifunctional and come equipped with built-in holes and slots located around the outside so you can use to store a lot of your smoking supplies such as the best cigar lighters, matches, a good cigar cutter, and cleaning tools.
Metal and Plastic: Many smokeless ashtrays are made from these two materials. The popular smokeless ashtray it’s a great choice if you live in a home with children or other non-smokers. Over the past 30 years, smokeless ashtray technology has advanced, but the main purpose of this style is to eliminate the smell of smoke by preventing it from escaping, and that function remains the same. Modern models will come equipped with a fan that is designed to draw in the smoke. Some also come equipped with a type of carbon filter that can help to purify the air that’s drawn in via the fan. This extra feature also helps to reduce the smell.
Other models will work by automatically turning the fan feature on once the top of the ashtray is opened. Dome covered models do an excellent job of preventing smoke from escaping and also utilize a fan to draw in a smoke.
Portable Ashtrays
Smoking isn’t quite as popular these days, so finding the right type of outdoor ashtray can be a real challenge. Fortunately, models such as portable ashtrays, also known as pocket ashtrays, can be taken anywhere and make it much more convenient to smoke outdoors, when you’re on the go. These small ashtrays can fit in your messenger bag, purse, or your pocket. Basically, they can go anywhere you do. They feature a minimalistic design, but most are very durable, well-built and usually come lined with foil which makes them flame retardant.
Essentially, their flame-retardant design will prevent a poorly put out cigar from catching your belongings on fire should you store it in your pocket, car, or purse. This Innovative design is a must-have safety feature that any smoker can appreciate. So, if you’re looking for a proper way to easily and discreetly store your old butts, this style is an excellent choice.
Keeping it Clean
Because there are so many different types and styles of ashtrays, there are several ways you can clean them. For easier cleanup, you can place baking soda or sand at the bottom, which will cause the ash to stick, making it easier to clean since all you have to do is basically dump out the ashtray into a garbage can. The addition of baking soda will also help to mask the smell. However, for smaller models, this isn’t necessary since most ashtrays can easily be scrubbed out in the sink with some warm soapy water.
If you have a glass ashtray then you’ll need to use rubbing alcohol, or a mixture of vinegar and water since this style tends to get extra gunky. Portable models can be more difficult to clean because of their smaller size, which makes it hard to get into every nook and cranny.
Depending on the style, many models are also dishwasher safe, which makes them incredibly easy to clean. Whatever type of style you choose, make sure you clean it regularly to help cut down on the odor and mess.
Benefits
Obviously, owning an ashtray that’s specifically designed for cigars comes with plenty of benefits, such as cutting down on the ashy mess.
- The best model for you will give you a cleaner, safer place to hold and store your cigar, while helping to contain the ash and cut down on mess.
- Some are even designed to keep your cigar lit, holding it in a perfectly horizontal position, so you can carefully set it down, take your turn during a pool game or take a quick bathroom break. This way, you can come back to it later without it being covered in ash, or having to relight it.
- If you choose the perfect style it can also help to complement any existing room decor.
- It can also cut down on the amount of odor, so you’re home doesn’t smell like a cigar.
Ashing
The main reason you’re shopping for an ashtray right now that’s specifically designed for cigars, is to find one that can handle the high volume of ash that cigars are known for. In most cases, you’ll want a model that features a deep compartment, one that can handle a high volume of ash, without you having to empty it out in the middle of a smoke.
Did you know the type of ash your cigar makes is often a big sign regarding its characteristics and quality? Cigars that are rolled well will create a sort of stiff ash and will burn slower. A quality cigar can create stiff ash that ranges in 3 to 4 inches in length without falling off the cigar, breaking or bending. If the ash on your cigar breaks quickly or the cigar itself burns faster, then the tobacco is probably not well packed, and it’s a big indicator that you’re smoking a low-quality cigar.
However, the quality of your smoking experience will not be affected by the length of the ash. If the cigar tastes bitter and it’s new, then this is a red flag that you’re smoking a low-quality cigar. If it tastes bitter after it’s been relit, then this is pretty common and the bitterness should dissipate after a few puffs.
Signs of a High-Quality Cigar
If you have yourself a high-quality cigar then you should be able to smoke it all the way down to the nub. At times, when you’re able to smoke a cigar down to the nub, you may experience different tastes that can change from smooth to bitter, or it may have a very distinct aftertaste if you have a good cigar. Ideally, it should possess a slow-burning quality and remain lit for around five minutes without you puffing on it. Usually, most cigars that are top-notch will be able to easily burn past a rough spot on the wrapper and can allow you to continue smoking without burning out.
Preserving the Ash
If you’re new to cigar smoking, then learning how to properly ash your cigar a must. You do not have to repeatedly flick or tap the cigar like you normally would when ashing a cigarette. Cigars that are handmade are crafted out of long filler tobacco which has a reputation for holding a much sturdier and longer burn, compared to a cigarette. With a cigarette, the ash will usually end up all over you and in your ashtray. Refrain from messing with the ash too much as this can result in breaking off the cherry causing you to have to relight it. You can learn more about cigars, how they’re made, and how to choose a high-quality one by reading my guide on how cigars are made.
Cigar Type
Obviously, cigar size, quality, brand, and how it’s rolled, will all have an impact on how much ash you can anticipate. There are many different styles and sizes to choose from, with the better tasting, tightly rolled variety available at a higher price. However, the higher the quality, the longer it will last
Final Thoughts
When it comes to picking the right ashtray that’s right for you, basing your choice on your specific lifestyle makes a lot of sense. If you plan on keeping the ashtray, in an area of your home that is high traffic, then a silicone e model will be a better fit.
If your home features a very modern or minimalist theme, then an ashtray made out of ceramic or glass will complement your existing decor. Portable models are perfect if you like to walk around the home when you’re smoking, or simply smoke when you’re out and about. As I mentioned earlier, the best cigar ashtray will usually be a matter of personal preference since all types function the same.
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