Ciget
Pocket ashtray for cigarette butts
Cigarette filters are one of the most common forms of litter worldwide. During cleanup events organized by the founder of Ciget, it became clear just how dominant they are in the environment. Because cigarette filters are small and lightweight, they easily end up in nature where the plastic eventually breaks down into microplastics. The idea behind Ciget was therefore simple: create a practical product that allows smokers to temporarily store cigarette butts until they reach a waste bin. In other words, a small solution to a very widespread problem. ManGo Product Design supported the development of a compact pocket ashtray that combines usability, hygiene and durability in a small fashionable product
From Idea to Practical Concept
The first concept explored was an ashtray integrated directly into a cigarette pack. While interesting in theory, this approach proved less practical for everyday use. Through multiple design iterations the concept evolved into a stand-alone portable ashtray. The goal was to create a product that is intuitive to use and easy to carry. Small internal dents were added to provide tactile feedback when opening and closing the product. This allows the user to clearly feel when the ashtray is securely closed, even when operating it with one hand. The product also seals airtight, preventing unpleasant odours from escaping and allowing it to be carried safely in a pocket or bag; something both smokers and their jackets will appreciate.
Designing for Hygiene and Safety
Besides usability, hygiene and safety were key considerations during development. A pocket ashtray must safely handle a recently extinguished cigarette and remain easy to clean afterwards. To achieve this, the interior of the product can fully open on a hinge, allowing the ashtray to be emptied and cleaned quickly. Because while storing cigarette butts is useful, keeping them around longer than necessary definitely isn’t. All internal components that may come into contact with heat were designed to withstand high temperatures. For this reason, the interior is manufactured from high-quality pressure-cast aluminium , which combines excellent heat resistance with the possibility for detailed internal geometry.
Modern Design with Thoughtful Engineering
The final design combines technical functionality with a fresh and modern appearance . The housing features a contemporary colour palette inspired by current design trends, while a silicone band adds grip and introduces a subtle contrast in texture. A glossy logo detail creates a visual contrast with the matte housing, giving the product a refined finish. Behind the clean appearance lies a carefully engineered construction. Invisible internal connections, integrated hinge elements and pressure points for tactile feedback required precise development to make the product both durable and easy to manufacture. The result is a compact everyday product that helps reduce cigarette litter, proving that sometimes even the smallest products can help make the world a little cleaner.
