Moroccan Ashtray: How to Choose the Ideal Model

Looking for an ashtray that combines traditional craftsmanship and elegance? The Moroccan ashtray is much more than a simple smoker's accessory. Handmade by artisans in Morocco, it stands out for its colourful geometric patterns inspired by zellige tilework, its painted ceramic and its characteristic domed lid. Both a practical object and a decorative element, it brings an oriental touch to any interior. This complete guide helps you choose the perfect Moroccan ashtray for your needs: material, size, style and budget.

Why Choose a Moroccan Ashtray?

The Moroccan ashtray stands out from industrial models through several concrete advantages:

• Handcrafted: each piece is shaped, glazed and decorated by hand by skilled artisans. No two ashtrays are ever perfectly identical, which makes each one a unique object.
• Dual decorative function: beyond its use as an ashtray, it serves as a catch-all dish, a table centrepiece or a decorative piece in a living room, on a terrace or on a coffee table.
• Durable materials: glazed ceramic and terracotta withstand heat (up to 300 degrees), light knocks and the passage of time. Unlike metal, ceramic doesn't absorb tobacco smells.
• Protective lid: the traditional dome keeps the ash inside and limits the spread of smells, an important advantage over ordinary open table ashtrays.
• Timeless patterns: arabesques, zellige and geometric patterns inspired by the craftsmanship of Fez, Marrakech or Safi fit as well into an oriental decor as into a contemporary interior.

The Different Types of Moroccan Ashtray

Before buying, it is important to know the variants available so you can find the model suited to your use and your decor.

Glazed Ceramic Moroccan Ashtray

The most common and the most colourful. Glazed ceramic allows great freedom in patterns and colours: Fez blue, emerald green, white, ochre or multicoloured. The glaze protects the surface, makes it waterproof and makes cleaning easier. This type of ashtray generally weighs between 300 g and 800 g depending on the diameter. Discover our selection of ceramic ashtrays to compare styles and sizes.

Terracotta Moroccan Ashtray

More raw and authentic, the terracotta ashtray gives a natural, warm look with ochre, brown and brick-red tones. It is ideal for a terrace, a patio or a Berber-inspired living room. Terracotta is a porous material: it absorbs more residue. Remember to clean it regularly with clean water so that stains don't become embedded in the material.

XXL Moroccan Ashtray

With a diameter of 25 to 35 cm, the XXL Moroccan ashtray becomes a true decorative centrepiece for large spaces. It also suits cigar smokers who need more room and stability. Its weight (1 to 2 kg) guarantees a firm seat on the table, even outdoors.

Contemporary Design Moroccan Ashtray

The contemporary design models reinterpret traditional patterns with modern finishes: monochrome colours (matt black, ivory white, anthracite grey), clean shapes or gold-toned metallic details. They fit naturally into a minimalist, Scandinavian or industrial interior while keeping the charm of Moroccan craftsmanship.

How to Choose Your Moroccan Ashtray

Several practical criteria deserve your attention before buying, to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Material

Glazed ceramic is the best choice for everyday use: easy to clean, heat-resistant and available in a wide palette of colours. Terracotta is better suited to decorative or occasional use, as it needs more upkeep. For year-round outdoor use, favour glazed ceramic, which stands up better to the weather.

Size

A compact ashtray of 12 to 18 cm in diameter is enough for individual use or a small space. For a living room coffee table or a space shared by several smokers, opt for a large Moroccan ashtray of 20 to 25 cm, which offers more capacity. XXL models (25 cm and over) are recommended for terraces or events.

Style and Colours

Blue and white patterns recall the traditional zellige of Fez and go well with a sober or nautical decor. Terracotta, green and ochre tones suit a warm, natural atmosphere. Plain black or white models suit modern interiors. Choose according to your existing colour palette for a harmonious result.

The Lid

Most Moroccan ashtrays have a domed lid with a grip knob. Check that it fits properly and is easy to remove for cleaning. Some models such as closed ashtrays offer a more airtight closure, ideal for limiting smells in an enclosed space.

Budget

A standard-size ceramic Moroccan ashtray (15 to 20 cm) costs between €20 and €40. Handcrafted models hand-painted with complex patterns, or XXL formats, are between €40 and €80. High-end pieces or limited editions can exceed €100. Whatever the budget, check that the glaze is even and the lid closes properly before buying.

Caring for Your Moroccan Ashtray

Regular care extends the life of your ashtray and preserves the brightness of its hand-painted patterns. Here are the essential steps:

• Empty the ash after each use to avoid stains and nicotine deposits.
• Clean the ceramic with lukewarm water and a little mild soap. A non-abrasive cloth is enough.
• Avoid abrasive products, wire brushes and the dishwasher, which could scratch the glaze or dull the painted patterns.
• For terracotta, rinse with clean water and let it dry completely in the open air before using it again.
• For stubborn stains, leave it to soak in lukewarm water with bicarbonate of soda for 30 minutes.
• See our complete guide to cleaning an ashtray for detailed tips for each material.

Where to Put a Moroccan Ashtray in Your Home?

The Moroccan ashtray is decorative enough to be displayed even when not used as an ashtray. Here are the most suitable places:

• Living room coffee table: the classic spot. An 18 to 22 cm model with a lid protects the table and adds an oriental touch.
• Terrace or balcony: choose a weatherproof glazed ceramic model. An XXL format prevents the wind knocking it over.
• Entrance table: a small model serves as an elegant catch-all dish for keys and loose change.
• Shelf or console: closed with its lid, the Moroccan ashtray becomes a decorative object in its own right, to pair with lanterns or candles.

It goes perfectly with oriental decor elements: openwork metal lanterns, Berber rugs, kilim cushions or brass trays.

FAQ

What is the average price of a Moroccan ashtray?

The price depends on the size, the material and the complexity of the patterns. Expect between €20 and €40 for a standard glazed ceramic model. Large handcrafted pieces or editions with complex patterns range from €40 to €100. See our range of affordable Moroccan ashtrays for budget-friendly models without compromising on quality.

Is a Moroccan ashtray suitable for outdoors?

Yes, glazed ceramic stands up well to outdoor conditions: rain, sun and temperature changes. However, avoid leaving it exposed to prolonged frost in winter, as water absorbed by the ceramic could make it crack. Terracotta is more fragile in frost. For permanent terrace use, favour a glazed ceramic model or explore our outdoor ashtrays designed specifically to withstand the weather.

Can you use a Moroccan ashtray for cigars?

Yes, large models (20 cm and over) are suitable for cigars. The domed lid lets you rest the cigar on the rim of the ashtray safely. For regular cigar use, XXL models with wider notches are recommended. Also discover our specialist cigar ashtrays with built-in cigar rests.

How can you tell an authentic Moroccan ashtray?

An authentic handcrafted Moroccan ashtray shows slight irregularities in the hand-painted patterns: this is the sign of genuine craftsmanship. The glaze is thick and glossy, the colours bright and deep. Industrial imitations have perfectly symmetrical patterns, a thinner glaze and duller colours. Check the weight too: a handcrafted ceramic ashtray is noticeably heavier than a copy in plastic or thin ceramic.

How do you fit a Moroccan ashtray into a modern decor?

Choose a model in subdued colours (black, white, navy blue) with simple geometric patterns rather than complex arabesques. Place it on a light surface in natural wood or marble. Using a single oriental element in a clean-lined decor creates an elegant contrast without overloading the space. A Moroccan ashtray also works as a sculptural object on a shelf next to books or candles.

The Moroccan ashtray is an accessory that combines everyday usefulness, durability and handcrafted beauty. Whether you choose it in colourful ceramic from Fez, raw terracotta from Safi or XXL format for your terrace, it will find its natural place in your home. Explore our whole collection of Moroccan ashtrays to find the model that suits you.