Ashtrays

Find the Perfect Ashtray in the UK: Stylish Picks from Nordic Nest, Menkind and More

Why choosing the right ashtray actually matters

It might sound obvious, but the ashtray you buy says a lot about how you live and how much you enjoy your downtime. A thoughtful ashtray blends function with flair — catching ash and keeping surfaces clean while adding a touch of style. Whether you smoke indoors, enjoy the odd cigar on the balcony, or like to offer guests a classy resting place for their smoke, the right piece makes the ritual feel intentional. Think of an ashtray like a pair of shoes: practical, but able to complete the outfit.

Nordic Nest: Scandinavian design for tidy, modern spaces

If you like clean lines and minimalist charm, Nordic Nest is a go-to for ashtrays that look like small sculptures. The site focuses on Scandinavian brands and home accessories that fit modern decor, so an ashtray from there often doubles as a decorative object. Scandinavian pieces prioritize form and function, so you get materials like stainless steel and matte enamel that are easy to keep looking new. If your living space leans neutral and uncluttered, a Nordic Nest-style ashtray will slot in effortlessly.

Stelton AJ Cylinda-line — Small stainless steel

The Stelton AJ Cylinda-line small ashtray is a compact, classic piece for fans of minimalist design. Picture a streamlined cylinder roughly 4 inches across — small enough to perch on a narrow side table yet heavy enough not to tip when snagged. The stainless steel finish resists stains and complements chrome or brushed brass hardware. It’s subtle, understated, and perfect for cigarette smokers who want something discreet but premium.

Stelton AJ Cylinda-line — Large stainless steel

For bigger gatherings or cigar nights, the large version of the Stelton AJ Cylinda-line stretches the same design language to about 6 inches across, offering more room for ash and embers. The extra capacity makes it a sensible choice for outdoor entertaining or for someone who prefers not to empty an ashtray every hour. The weight and durable finish make it feel like an heirloom, even if it’s used casually on the patio.

Menkind: playful, practical pieces with personality

Menkind brings a different energy: fun, novelty and well-made gifts. If you’re after an ashtray with character — something that sparks conversation — Menkind often stocks playful designs, licensed pieces and things that double as barware. They’re great for gifting or for households that want their smoking accessories to have a bit of personality without sacrificing usefulness.

Whisky & Cigar Tray — style for the home bar

The Whisky & Cigar Tray from Menkind is a good example of form meeting hospitality. Imagine a tray about 10 inches long with slots for a cigar and a basin for ash, often with a faux-leather or wood finish to match a home bar. It’s built for pairing a dram with a smoke — the tray keeps liquids away from ash while presenting everything in an organized, classy way. If you entertain and serve spirits, a combined tray makes serving smoother and keeps surfaces safe.

Other UK stores to check for ashtrays

Nordic Nest and Menkind are excellent starting points, but the UK market has plenty of options. John Lewis & Partners and Habitat often stock designer and everyday ashtrays with good build quality. Lakeland and Argos offer practical, budget-friendly metal and ceramic ashtrays. For a broader selection, Amazon UK and Etsy provide everything from handcrafted ceramic bowls to heavy-duty outdoor ashtrays. If you prefer luxury, department stores like Selfridges or Harrods sometimes carry limited-edition pieces or branded cigar accessories. Shopping around helps you compare styles, sizes and price ranges.

Materials and styles: what to look for

Ashtrays come in many materials, and the right choice depends on how you use it. Stainless steel is durable and easy to wipe clean, ceramic offers colour and glaze, glass can be elegant but fragile, and stone or marble gives weight and a high-end feel. For outdoor use, metal or treated stone are better because they stand up to the elements. Indoor decor-minded buyers may prefer glazed ceramics or smoked glass that coordinates with the room’s palette.

Stainless steel vs ceramic — pros and cons

Stainless steel is rust-resistant, lightweight and often dishwasher-friendly; it’s a top pick for modern kitchens and patios. Ceramic ashtrays allow for decorative glazes and patterns but can chip or crack if dropped. If you smoke cigars frequently, a heavier ceramic or stone ashtray helps steady larger stogies; for quick, on-the-go use the smaller stainless pieces are convenient and low-maintenance.

How to choose the right ashtray for your needs

Ask yourself a few simple questions: Do you smoke cigarettes, cigars or both? Will the ashtray live indoors or outside? How often will you empty it? A small, 4-inch ashtray works for solo cigarette use; a larger, 6- to 8-inch or tray-style option suits cigars or hosting. For outdoor areas, pick something heavy or with a lid to prevent sparks from blowing away. For travel, look for compact, covered containers that close tight and won’t spill ash in your bag.

Size, weight and portability

Size matters. A 4-inch ashtray is portable and discreet; a 6-inch or 8-inch bowl handles longer sessions and multiple smokers. Weight keeps the ashtray stable — something around 1 to 2 pounds is solid without being awkward. If you plan to move the ashtray around the garden or take it to a friend’s house, opt for models with handles or a shallow lip that’s easy to grip. For travel, a small, covered tin or metal case is ideal.

Maintenance and care tips to keep ashtrays looking great

Keeping an ashtray in good condition is simple and quick. Empty it regularly so ash doesn’t harden into a mess. For stainless steel pieces, wipe with a damp cloth and a mild detergent, then dry to avoid water marks. Ceramic and glass benefit from a gentle soak in warm water if residue builds up. Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads on polished or lacquered surfaces to prevent scratches. Regular care lengthens the life of the ashtray and keeps your space feeling neat.

Cleaning stainless steel and preventing stains

To remove stubborn marks on stainless steel, mix a teaspoon of baking soda with warm water to make a paste, rub gently, then rinse and dry. For tougher grime, a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water will usually lift residue without harming the finish. If you prefer commercial cleaners, choose ones designed for metal appliances. Always dry stainless pieces after cleaning to keep them gleaming.

Outdoor and travel-friendly ashtray options

If you smoke on the balcony or in the garden, choose ashtrays designed for the outdoors. Covered ashtrays with a small chimney or lid stop ash from flying away and hide the scent a bit. Heavy-duty metal ashtrays with a weighted base resist wind and accidental knocks, while portable pocket ashtrays or flameless containers are great for walks. Look for materials that won’t rust — stainless steel, coated metals, treated stone or thick ceramic work best.

Where to hunt deals, limited editions and designer pieces in the UK

Deals pop up across the market: high-street retailers often discount seasonal stock, while niche boutiques and online platforms run sales during bank holidays. Comparison sites and marketplaces let you scan many sellers to find the best price for a specific model, whether it’s the Stelton AJ or a branded cigar tray. If you want limited editions or designer collaborations, keep an eye on brand newsletters and social channels — those releases are often short-lived and worth snapping up quickly.

Sustainability: recycled materials and long-lasting choices

Eco-conscious smokers can choose ashtrays made from recycled metals or sustainably sourced woods. Solid pieces that last a long time reduce waste compared with cheap, disposable options. A heavy stainless or ceramic ashtray you keep for years is more sustainable than buying thin, brittle plastic ones season after season. If sustainability matters to you, look for brands that list material sourcing and manufacturing practices, or search marketplaces for reclaimed and upcycled designs.

Styling tips: make your ashtray part of the room

An ashtray can be more than a utility item — it can complement your decor. Match finishes: brushed steel pairs with industrial or contemporary interiors, while matte black or stone fits a rustic or moody lounge. Use an ashtray as part of a vignette on a side table: pair it with a small dish for matches, a coaster and a decorative object so it looks intentional rather than an afterthought. For outdoor settings, choose materials that sit well with wood furniture and natural tones.

Conclusion: Choosing the right ashtray in the UK comes down to balancing function, style and context. Nordic Nest and Menkind both offer excellent starting points — Nordic Nest for minimalist, high-quality Scandinavian options like the Stelton AJ Cylinda-line in small and large stainless steel, and Menkind for playful, hospitality-focused pieces like the Whisky & Cigar Tray. Supplement those choices with selections from John Lewis, Habitat, Lakeland, Amazon UK or specialty cigar retailers to find the perfect fit. With a little thought about size, material and care, you’ll have an ashtray that works hard and looks great for years.