At 710 Pipes, we believe that every smoking accessory plays a part in enhancing your overall experience—and ashtrays are no exception. More than just a tool for catching ash or extinguishing cigars, a thoughtfully chosen ashtray adds character, complements your setup, and helps maintain a tidy, safe environment. Whether you’re building out a lounge space, setting up your favorite desktop corner, or packing light for travel, selecting the right ashtray starts with knowing your material options.
Glass Ashtrays
Glass ashtrays bring a modern, clean look that appeals to those with an eye for design. With a variety of textures and hues, they can elevate the ambiance of a space—but they require a bit more care to stay intact.
Pros
- Attractive and visually polished
- Simple to wash with basic cleaners
- Heat-resistant without discoloring
Cons
- Breakable if dropped or mishandled
Metal Ashtrays
Metal ashtrays are built for resilience, making them a go-to for outdoor smokers or frequent travelers. Made from brass, aluminum, or stainless steel, they hold up well against the elements and the occasional knock.
Pros
- Durable and impact-resistant
- Good performance in hot and cold conditions
- Often lightweight and easy to store
Cons
- Can get hot when exposed to flame
- Less visually ornate
- May rust without protective finish
“Metal ashtrays are often made from stainless steel or brass, which gives them a sleek and stylish look. They are heavy and stable, which makes them less likely to tip over. Metal ashtrays can also be very durable, and they are less likely to break or crack than other materials. However, they can also absorb heat quickly, which means they may become too hot to handle if left in direct sunlight or near a heat source.”
–First Class Humidors
Silicone Ashtrays
If you’re after flexibility and zero fuss, silicone ashtrays are a smart pick. These soft-touch, rugged trays are perfect for smokers on the move or those who prefer practical over polished.
Pros
- Shatterproof and bendable
- Tolerates heat and cleans easily
- Highly portable
Cons
- Casual appearance
- May stain or fade with repeated use
- Not ideal for formal spaces
Wooden Ashtrays
Wooden ashtrays add a cozy, organic element to your setup. Often featuring protective liners, they combine rustic charm with utility and are especially appealing to pipe collectors with wood finishes.
Pros
- Natural and warm design
- Often one-of-a-kind craftsmanship
- Matches well with wooden pipe stems and racks
Cons
- Requires gentle upkeep
- Flammable without a heat-proof lining
- Can wear down with frequent use
Browse Our Ashtray Selection
Explore our online pipe shop’s selection of ashtrays made of polyresin, ceramic, silicone, and other popular materials.Polyresin Ashtrays
Polyresin ashtrays are a stylish and practical alternative to natural stone. Crafted from molded synthetic resin, they offer the look of stone or ceramic with added durability and a more accessible price point. These ashtrays are popular for their wide range of artistic finishes and resistance to chipping.
Pros
- Visually appealing with custom finishes
- Durable and less prone to breaking than stone
- Affordable luxury look
Cons
- Moderate heat resistance
- Heavier than silicone or aluminum
- May warp under high heat if untreated
How These Ashtray Materials Compare
Here’s a comparison chart to help weigh the strengths and limitations of popular ashtray materials. Your ideal pick depends on how often you smoke, whether you’re indoors or outside, and the look you’re after.
| Material | Durability | Heat Resistance | Weight | Best For | Design Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | Moderate | Excellent | Heavy | Indoor lounges | High |
| Glass | Low to Moderate | Excellent | Moderate | Stylish settings | Very High |
| Metal | High | Excellent | Light to Moderate | Outdoors or travel | Moderate |
| Silicone | Very High | Good | Light | Casual or mobile use | Low to Moderate |
| Wood (lined) | Moderate | Moderate | Varies | Rustic or artisan setups | High |
| Polyresin | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate to Heavy | Stylish setups | Very High |
Each ashtray material brings a different combination of durability, style, and function. From classic wood to sleek silicone, the right choice comes down to your habits and environment.
Additional Considerations When Buying an Ashtray
Besides the material, there are other features worth thinking about when choosing an ashtray:
- Number of Rests – More grooves let multiple people or pipes rest comfortably at once.
- Depth – A deeper ash basin means less cleanup and fewer spills.
- Lid or Cover – Useful outdoors to prevent ash scatter and reduce lingering odors.
- Easy Cleaning – Simpler designs are easier to rinse or wipe clean.
Ashtray FAQs
For high-traffic or shared environments, silicone and metal ashtrays are ideal due to their durability, resistance to tipping, and ease of cleaning.
Yes, some ashtrays feature larger rests and deeper basins to accommodate cigars or include specific grooves and tools for pipe use.
Look for ashtrays with a rubber or silicone base, or those with extra weight to prevent sliding on glass, tile, or polished wood surfaces.
Absolutely. Many artisan and novelty ashtrays offer full functionality with grooves, deep bowls, and heat-resistant finishes, all wrapped in eye-catching design.
Not all ashtrays offer equal heat resistance. Materials like glass, ceramic, and metal are safest for high temperatures, while untreated wood and low-grade resin may degrade or discolor over time.
Covered ashtrays help trap odors, reduce ash scatter from wind, and hide unsightly residue—making them great for patios or discreet indoor use.
Yes, many ashtrays double as incense burners or catch-alls for small items. Just ensure the material can safely handle embers or heat from incense cones or sticks.
Ashtrays with built-in cleaners, tampers, or reamers make pipe maintenance easier and reduce mess by collecting waste in one tidy spot.
Sleek metal or clear glass ashtrays with clean lines are perfect for minimalist settings. Look for simple forms without ornate accents.
Yes, darker ashtrays tend to absorb and retain more heat, especially under direct sunlight. Lighter colors may stay cooler and are preferable for outdoor use.
Final Thoughts
While it might seem like a simple tool, a well-chosen ashtray enhances your experience and helps protect your gear and space. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of glass or the practicality of silicone, 710 Pipes has options to match every need and aesthetic. Shop online or visit us in-store to explore the latest in ashtray design.