Ashtrays

Top Ashtrays and Where to Buy Them in the US: A Shopper’s Guide to Stylish, Smokeless, and Practical Picks

Introduction: Why the Right Ashtray Actually Matters

Have you ever thought an ashtray was just an ashtray? Think again. The right ashtray does more than catch ashes — it reduces mess, controls odor, protects surfaces, and can even add a bit of personality to your porch, living room, or man cave. Whether you’re shopping for a stainless steel lid ashtray to keep smoke contained or a compact silicone option for traveling, picking the right piece makes smoking or hosting smokers cleaner and more pleasant for everyone.

What to Look For in an Ashtray

When I shop for ashtrays, I look at three things first: material, size, and function. Material affects durability and ease of cleaning, size determines how often you’ll have to empty it, and function covers extras like lids, windproof designs, or built-in purifiers. Think about where you’ll use it — indoors needs odor control, outdoors needs wind resistance, and travel-friendly pieces should be lightweight and crush-resistant.

Popular Types of Ashtrays

Ashtrays come in many shapes and forms, and matching the style to your lifestyle makes a big difference. Here’s a quick rundown of popular types and what they’re best at.

Stainless Steel Ashtrays With Lids

Stainless steel lid ashtrays are a favorite for indoor use because the lid traps smoke and ash. They’re generally durable, rust-resistant, and easy to wipe clean. A model like the Yayeee Ashtray With Lid for Cigarette Smokeless Stainless Steel Home Ash Holder is designed to cut down on odor and keep ash contained, making it a solid pick for tabletops and countertops.

Smokeless & Purifier Ashtrays

If odors are your main concern, a smokeless or purifying ashtray is worth considering. Devices such as the Kiplyki Flash Purifier Ashtrays for Cigarettes blend a small filtration or activated carbon system with an ashtray to reduce lingering smells in indoor spaces. These are great for home offices or dens where smoke smell tends to stick to fabrics.

Ceramic and Glass Ashtrays

Ceramic and glass options often win on style. They can be decorative, patterned, and surprisingly heavy, which helps them stay put outdoors on windy days. The downside is fragility — they chip or break if dropped. But if you want something that doubles as décor, ceramic is hard to beat.

Silicone and Portable Ashtrays

For travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, silicone ashtrays fold down and are easy to stash in a backpack. They’re heat-resistant and can be rinsed quickly, though they don’t mask odors as well as lidded steel or filtration models. If you camp or tailgate a lot, a silicone cup-style ashtray is a practical companion.

Large Capacity & Tabletop Ashtrays

Entertaining often calls for large-capacity ashtrays that can sit on a coffee table or patio surface and collect multiple cigarette butts without constant emptying. These are usually heavier, wider, and sometimes come with integrated extinguishers or holders. Look for models at least 6 to 10 inches across if you host often.

Where to Buy Ashtrays in the US

There are plenty of places to buy ashtrays depending on what you want — budget options, high-end designer pieces, or specialty smokeless gadgets. Below I highlight popular retailers and what they’re good for, including specific items you might find.

Walmart

Walmart remains a go-to for affordable, practical ashtrays. You can find basic ceramic or stainless steel models, plus more advanced items like the Yayeee Ashtray With Lid and Kiplyki Flash Purifier Ashtrays mentioned earlier. Walmart’s mix of in-store pickup and online ordering makes it easy to snag last-minute pieces for a party or to replace a worn-out tray.

Amazon

Amazon is the king of variety. If you want novelty ashtrays, stainless steel lids, smokeless purifiers, or travel options, Amazon’s selection is vast. Reviews help you filter choices and find the best-rated items. Prime shipping also helps if you need something fast.

Target

Target tends to balance style and affordability. You’ll find decorative glass and ceramic ashtrays that fit modern home décor, plus a few functional lidded options. Target’s in-house brands often offer stylish designs that won’t break the bank.

eBay and Etsy

If you’re hunting for vintage, collectible, or artisanal ashtrays, eBay and Etsy are treasure troves. eBay is great for retro or collectible pieces, while Etsy features handmade and custom-designed ashtrays — perfect if you want something unique or personalized.

Specialty Tobacco & Vape Shops

Local tobacco shops and vape stores stock ashtrays tailored to smokers’ needs: heavier, windproof designs, cigar-specific trays, and high-quality materials meant to last. These shops are good if you want hands-on advice or specialized accessories like cigar rests or heavier-duty outdoor trays.

How to Choose the Right Size and Capacity

Size matters. For a single smoker or a small room, a compact ashtray measuring 3 to 5 inches across is usually enough. If you entertain or share a space, opt for something 6 to 10 inches in diameter so it won’t overflow mid-party. Capacity can also be thought of in butt count rather than ounces; a 6- to 8-inch ashtray generally holds 10 to 20 butts comfortably.

Materials and Durability: Matching Use to Build

Material choice depends on where the ashtray will live. Stainless steel is robust and dishwasher-friendly, ceramic offers aesthetic variety but is fragile, glass looks sleek but can crack with heavy use, and silicone is flexible and portable. If your ashtray will be outdoors most of the time, heavier metals or weighted ceramic are less likely to blow away in gusts.

Odor Control: Tips and Tech

Nothing kills a vibe like lingering cigarette smell. For indoor use, look for lidded ashtrays, activated carbon filters, or small purifier units. An ashtray with a tight-fitting lid, like the Yayeee model, immediately reduces vapor escape, while electronic or charcoal-based purifiers, like the Kiplyki Flash Purifier models, actively filter and refresh the air.

Style and Aesthetics: Make an Ashtray Part of Your Decor

It’s surprising how a small object can influence a room’s look. A mid-century ceramic ashtray can become a conversation piece on your coffee table, while a sleek stainless steel model fits minimal modern interiors. Think of an ashtray as a tiny accessory — a touch of brass, a patterned ceramic rim, or an engraved metal finish can elevate the whole room.

Practical Care and Cleaning Tips

Cleaning is simple but important. Empty contents regularly into a metal container if still warm, rinse or wipe down with warm water and mild soap, and for stainless steel or glass, a quick polish brings back shine. For purifying units follow manufacturer's cleaning steps, usually involving replacing or rinsing filters. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners on decorative finishes to prevent dulling or damage.

Buying for Outdoor Use: Wind and Weather Considerations

Outdoors demands windproof and weighted designs. Look for lids, deeper wells, and heavier materials. A 6- to 8-inch ashtray with a lid and a weighted base resists tipping and keeps ash and butts contained during breezy barbecues or rooftop hangs. For patios consider models that can be mounted or anchored to tables to prevent spills.

Budget Picks vs. Splurge Pieces

Your price point will shape what you buy. Under $20 you’ll find basic ceramic and small stainless options that do the job. In the $20–$60 range you get lidded designs and better build quality. Above $60 you’ll start seeing designer, artisan, or electronic purifying ashtrays that deliver superior odor control and long-term durability. Decide whether function or fashion is the priority before splurging.

Eco-Friendly and Disposable Alternatives

If you’re trying to reduce waste, reusable metal or glass ashtrays last decades, but there are also biodegradable disposable ashtray cups made from pressed paper or rice husk that are handy for festivals or one-off outdoor events. For smokers trying to cut down, consider portable butt pouches that double as temporary storage until proper disposal.

DIY and Upcycling Ideas

Feeling crafty? Old jars, brass candle holders, or wide ceramic bowls make serviceable ashtrays with minimal modification. A thick river rock with a small shallow dish glued on top makes an unexpected outdoor tray, while a shallow brass bowl can be cleaned and lined with sand for a vintage look. Upcycling is budget-friendly and lets you match pieces to your décor.

Final Tips Before You Buy

Think about where the ashtray will live, how often it will be used, and which features matter most: lid, weight, material, or purifier. Read reviews if shopping online, and when possible check weight and finish in person for a better sense of durability. If you’re buying for a smoker who prefers cigars, choose a wider, heavier model with cigar rests.

Conclusion

Choosing the right ashtray is a small decision that pays off in cleaner surfaces, less smell, and a more pleasant environment. From budget-friendly stainless steel lids at stores like Walmart to high-tech purifiers and artisan pieces on Amazon or Etsy, there’s an ashtray for every need and style. Match material and capacity to your habits, consider odor-control features if you’re indoors, and don’t be afraid to add a bit of design flair — an ashtray can be both functional and fashionable.