Proper Cigar Extinguishing Etiquette

Putting out a cigar does not really require a lot of expertise or cigar accessories, though there are some tools you can buy that will help. However, it does require a little bit of knowledge. While it is not difficult to put one out, putting it out the right way is important. Yes, there are right and wrong ways to go about extinguishing your cigar, and knowing these will help you be a better cigar aficionado. What do you need to know in order to do it the right way?

There is a lot of contradictory advice out there about how to extinguish a cigar when you have finished with it, but most of it is just plain wrong. Following this advice will result in problems for you.

If you are out and about, then putting out your cigar becomes a bit more problematic. Pipe smokers can simply put their lit pipe in their pocket and allow it to go out, but cigar smokers do not have this luxury. If you are outside, you have several possible courses of action. The best option is to simply hold the cigar and let it go out in your hand.

However, if you are in an area where you have access to an ashtray, the best course of action is to just let it go out on its own. Stomping it out or butting it out will make it smell bad, and will definitely offend other smokers if they are around.

You might consider purchasing an extinguisher, which can snuff out any lit cigar. However, these are not really all that necessary, particularly if you choose to enjoy your pastime at home or in an area designed for cigar smokers. Other smokers will not be offended by you letting your cigar burn itself out.