A good cigar ashtray needs wide, deep notches since cigars are thicker than cigarettes, plus enough surface area to hold a longer ash column without it toppling. Weight matters too — a heavier ceramic or glass base keeps a resting cigar stable rather than tipping the whole tray.
Cigar ash behaves differently from cigarette ash — it holds together longer in a solid column, and cigars themselves are thicker, so a standard cigarette ashtray’s narrow notches don’t fit well.
Why Notch Width Matters
Cigarette ashtrays are built for slim notches that hold a cigarette at an angle. Cigars are significantly thicker and often oversized for those notches, so they either don’t sit securely or roll off the edge — a dedicated cigar ashtray has wider, deeper notches sized for the larger diameter.
Weight and Stability
A resting cigar puts more sustained weight and pressure on one side of the tray than a cigarette does, so a light ashtray is more likely to tip. Heavier ceramic or glass bases hold their position even with one or two cigars resting across the notches.
Our Pick
The Bob Marley Collectors Glass Ashtray offers the weight and wide surface area that works well for cigar use, doubling as a display piece when not in active use.
Bob Marley Collectors Glass Ashtray at The Smokery Hub →
Multi-Notch Trays for Groups
If cigars are a social, shared activity, a multi-notch tray that holds three or four cigars at once avoids the awkwardness of passing a single-notch ashtray around.
Cigar Ashtray Buying Guide
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Wide, deep notches | Fits thicker cigar diameter |
| Heavy base | Prevents tipping |
| Multiple notches | Better for group settings |
| Easy-clean material (glass/ceramic) | Cigar ash is oilier, needs real cleaning |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular ashtray for cigars in a pinch?
You can, but expect the cigar to sit awkwardly or roll — it’ll work for one session but isn’t ideal long-term.
How many notches should a cigar ashtray have?
One or two for personal use, three or four if you regularly host others who smoke cigars.
Does material affect cigar ash cleanup?
Yes — glass and glazed ceramic wipe clean easily, while unfinished materials can absorb oils from cigar ash over time.
Is a heavier ashtray always better for cigars?
Generally yes for stability, though very heavy trays are less practical if you move them between indoor and outdoor spaces often.
Final Thoughts
If cigars are a regular habit, a dedicated wide-notch ashtray is worth the switch — it holds the cigar more securely and won’t tip under the weight of a longer ash column the way a slim cigarette tray will.
Prices listed are approximate and may vary by retailer. Always check current pricing before purchasing.
