Cigar Etiquette Guide: The Unwritten Rules

Cigar etiquette comes down to a few unwritten rules: let a cigar die on its own instead of stubbing it out, never inhale the smoke, do not tap the ash like a cigarette, and be considerate of the people and space around you. None of it is complicated, but following it marks you as someone who respects the ritual and the company.

Let the cigar rest, don't stub it

Unlike a cigarette, a cigar should never be crushed out in the ashtray. Grinding it produces a harsh, stale smell that fills the room. When you are finished, simply set it down in the ashtray and let it go out naturally within a minute or two. It is the single most recognized point of cigar etiquette.

Don't inhale

Cigars are tasted in the mouth, not drawn into the lungs. Inhaling is not only unpleasant but marks you as a novice. If you want more flavor, learn to retrohale instead. For the full explanation, see should you inhale cigar smoke.

Mind the ash and the smoke

Let the ash build and remove it gently by rolling, never flicking, as covered in how to ash a cigar. Be aware of where your smoke drifts, especially indoors or in a group, and never blow smoke toward someone.

Sharing and lighting

• Do not ask to puff someone else's cigar: it is a personal item, like a toothbrush.
• Offer, don't grab: if you admire a cigar, let the owner offer rather than reaching for it.
• Light your own: toast and light your cigar yourself rather than passing it around.

In a cigar lounge

Lounges have their own rhythm. Keep your voice down, do not wear heavy cologne that fights the smoke, tip the staff, and follow the house rules on outside cigars. When in doubt, watch the regulars and mirror them.

Where to go next

Put it into practice with how to smoke a cigar properly and read cigar lounge etiquette for the finer points. New to cigars? Start with the beginner's guide.