Ashtrays & Freestanding Ashtrays

Ashtrays and freestanding ashtrays are functional items designed to hold ash and cigarette butts. In the restaurant industry, they are used primarily on patios, at entrances, and in designated smoking areas. 

Whether it’s a small café, restaurant with an outdoor patio, or hotel with a heavily trafficked entrance area: The right equipment supports orderly disposal and makes regular cleaning easier for staff. The key factors here are not only the material and design, but above all the location, frequency of use, and ease of handling. 

GGM Gastro offers a variety of designs for commercial use—from compact tabletop models to freestanding ashtrays.

The appropriate design depends on the available space and the layout of the smoking area. 

Table ashtrays made of glass or melamine are suitable for designated guest tables. Compact models require little floor space. Windproof ashtrays feature design elements that can prevent ash from being blown away. Models with a bayonet lock offer an additional locking mechanism. 

Freestanding ashtrays are suitable for central smoking areas, such as in front of a restaurant or next to a hotel entrance. They do not require table space and centralize waste disposal at a designated location.

Wall-mounted ashtrays are an alternative when floor space is limited. Combination models with an integrated waste bin also allow for the disposal of other suitable waste.

For a uniform setup across multiple guest tables, ashtray sets containing, for example, six or 48 pieces are also a good option.

Outdoors, the location affects both the product selection and subsequent cleaning.

On a restaurant patio, ashtrays should be easily accessible without obstructing food, drinks, or service paths. In a heavily trafficked entrance area, a centrally placed freestanding ashtray can replace several individual tabletop models.

For freestanding models, pay attention to height, footprint, and intended mounting options. Some models have pre-drilled holes for floor mounting. For wall-mounted ashtrays, the substrate, mounting height, and access for emptying must be taken into account.

For unprotected outdoor areas, explicitly stated weather resistance is also crucial. Not every material or wind-resistant ashtray is automatically suitable for prolonged exposure to the elements.

For frequently used ashtrays, the material and construction affect the amount of daily maintenance required.

Stainless steel is often used for freestanding and wall-mounted ashtrays and offers a sleek, understated look. Aluminum is another material option. Glass ashtrays allow for a classic table setting, while melamine models are available in various shapes and colors. Concrete versions offer a heavier, more substantial design.

For cleaning, removable inserts, easily accessible interior areas, and suitable surfaces are helpful. However, dishwasher safety must be checked individually for each model.

The capacity should also be appropriate for the intended use. A heavily frequented smoking area may require a different container size and more frequent emptying than a small hotel terrace.

Check these five points before ordering:

• Location: Guest table, patio, entryway, or central smoking area? 

• Design: Table ashtray, wind-resistant ashtray, freestanding ashtray, or wall-mounted model?

• Material: Does the design suit the intended use, weather conditions, and existing furnishings?

• Cleaning: Are the containers easily accessible, and are the inserts removable if necessary?

• Quantity and Dimensions: Are the number of units, packaging size, and space requirements correct?

These criteria help prevent mispurchases and unnecessary reorders.

When making a purchase, ongoing expenses are just as important as the unit price. Easily accessible ashtrays make emptying them easier and can simplify cleaning procedures. Standardized models also make organization easier when there are multiple locations or outdoor areas. 

Tailor your selection to your existing restaurant furniture and stainless steel furniture. For central waste disposal areas, additional trash cans may be useful. In areas directly accessible to guests, sufficient distance from food and beverages should also be planned for.

GGM Gastro supports commercial customers with a wide range of products, expert advice, and transparent product information. If you need a replacement on short notice, be sure to check the listed availability and the respective delivery terms. 

By selecting ashtrays and freestanding ashtrays based on their location, cleaning requirements, and actual wear and tear, you can create functional furnishings that integrate seamlessly into daily operations and can be economically sound in the long term.