How to Get Cigar Ash Off Your Clothes
Cigars can be a source of relaxation and enjoyment, but let’s face it: ash on your clothes is one of the more frustrating aspects of smoking. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or just starting out, knowing how to handle and clean cigar ash from your clothes is an essential skill. Below, we’ll cover some practical steps to prevent ash from getting on your clothes in the first place, how to handle it when it does fall, and the best way to clean your clothes to ensure they don't carry the smell of cigars.
Preventing Ash from Getting on Your Clothes
The best way to deal with cigar ash is to prevent it from getting on your clothes in the first place. Here are some proactive tips:
Be Mindful of Your Ashtray
Using an ashtray with a deep bowl and a wide surface area helps prevent ash from falling outside the tray, minimizing the risk of getting ash on your clothes. If you’re smoking indoors, invest in a quality ashtray designed for cigars—some come with wide, slanted sides that allow the ash to fall easily without making a mess. If you’re smoking at The Brig Cigar Lounge in Erie, PA, we’ve got you covered.
Hold Your Cigar Properly
When smoking, be mindful of how you hold your cigar. Hold it gently and avoid tapping it too much, as this can cause ash to break off prematurely and fall. A light, steady puff will allow the ash to stay intact longer. If you need to tap off the ash, do so gently by tapping the cigar against the rim of the ashtray rather than shaking it too hard.
Wear Protective Clothing/Items
If you're outside and expect to smoke in windy conditions, wearing clothing like jackets (whether a smoking jacket or an outerwear jacket) can help keep ash off of your main outfit. When smoking inside, a simple napkin or cloth like you would have on your lap at a restaurant can save your pants from ash.
REMINDER: The fabric your clothing is made of makes a huge difference in what happens when ash falls on it. To learn more, check out our post on Why Your Cigar Ash Is Burning Holes in Your Clothes.
Pay Attention to the Wind
Wind is a major factor in ash scattering. If you're smoking outdoors, be aware of the wind direction. Position yourself so that the ash falls in a direction away from your clothing, or if possible, try smoking in a sheltered area.
How to Handle Ash When It Falls on Your Clothes
Despite your best efforts, there’s always a chance that some ash will find its way onto your clothes. Here’s how to handle it:
Don’t Brush It Off Immediately
While it might be tempting to brush off the ash right away, resist the urge! Brushing can actually push the ash deeper into the fabric, embedding its smell and making it harder to remove later. Instead, simply blow the ash off your clothing. This keeps the ash from sticking to the fabric and leaves you with much less, if any ash at all to deal with.
How to Properly Clean Your Clothes So They Don’t Smell Like Cigars
Now that you’ve managed the fallout from cigar ash, you might also be concerned about the lingering smell of cigars on your clothes. Here are the best steps to ensure your clothes stay fresh:
Shake Off Excess Ash
Before washing, make sure to shake off any remaining loose ash. Use a lint roller or a soft brush to remove small particles that could transfer into your washing machine and imbue the smell into the rest of your clothing.
Wash Clothes Immediately
The longer the cigar odor sits on your clothes, the harder it is to remove. Wash your clothes as soon as possible to prevent the smell from settling in. Use a strong detergent—one designed to tackle odors—and consider adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle. Vinegar helps neutralize smells and can break down the oils from the cigar smoke that may be clinging to your fabric.
Use an Odor-Neutralizing Laundry Additive
If the smell of cigar smoke persists, consider using a laundry additive like baking soda or an odor-neutralizing product. Baking soda is great for absorbing smells and works well in conjunction with your detergent. If you don’t want to use vinegar, try a specialized odor-removing detergent that’s designed for smoke odors.
Repeat if Necessary
If the cigar smell persists after the first wash, repeat the process or wash with a stronger detergent. For items that are particularly affected by smoke, such as jackets or suits, a professional dry cleaner can help remove both ash and smoke odors effectively.
Cigar smoking doesn’t have to come at the cost of a stained wardrobe or lingering odors. By following these tips for preventing ash from getting on your clothes, handling it properly when it does fall, and knowing the best way to clean your clothes, you can continue enjoying your cigars without worrying about the mess. Whether you're smoking casually or savoring a fine cigar, maintaining your clothes is all about being mindful and taking quick action when needed. Happy smoking—and happy cleaning!
