Whether you’re lucky enough to reside in a year-round sunny locale or battle the seasonal chill like we are at Holt’s in Philadelphia, enjoying a premium cigar outdoors becomes a challenge as winter looms. From gusty winds to unexpected downpours, inclement weather can turn a relaxing smoke into a struggle, jeopardizing the burn and dispersing ashes. Therefore, indoor smoking becomes not just appealing but necessary for many enthusiasts.
However, with the scarcity of cigar-friendly public spaces, smoking at home emerges as the essential alternative. This scenario often involves co-inhabitants—family, roommates, or pets—whose tolerance for cigar smoke might not match your enthusiasm. Before visions of torching your prized Ashton ESG or Padron 1964 Anniversary inside start to form, let’s discuss how to keep the peace at home while indulging in those special smokes without the drama of weather-induced interruptions.
Selecting the Ideal Room for Your Indoor Smoke
Criteria for the Perfect Space
Before lighting up indoors, consider the room’s ventilation capabilities. Does it have windows, doors, or an exhaust fan linked to the outside? A room well-equipped for smoke evacuation is critical to a guilt-free indoor smoking experience.
Insulation Matters
For those planning a dedicated smoking room, consider spray foam insulation beneath the drywall for optimal smoke containment. This ensures that your cigar enjoyment doesn’t seep into the rest of your home, keeping shared air clean and conflict-free.
Adapting Existing Spaces
If you’re working with a preexisting space, there is no need for significant renovations. There are more straightforward ways to manage smoke in any room, preserving air quality and domestic harmony.
Strategies for Keeping Smoke Contained
DIY Smoke Management
A surprisingly effective method involves duct tape and a towel. By sealing the air return vent with tape (thus preventing smoke from circulating through the house) and blocking the door gap with a towel, you funnel smoke directly out an opened window. This makeshift setup allows for an enjoyable smoke without the whole house’s witness.
Ventilation Solutions
An exhaust fan, a basic box fan in the window or a more sophisticated system, can significantly enhance smoke extraction. Consider the room’s size and the number of smokers for larger gatherings or more frequent smoking to determine the appropriate fan strength, measured in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute).
Air Purification: Clearing the Air
Purifiers for the Rescue
Air purifiers, especially activated carbon ones, effectively remove smoke and odors. Models range from portable units for occasional use to more robust systems designed for regular smoking sessions, ensuring clean air and a pleasant environment for everyone.
Considerations for the Dedicated Smoking Room
HVAC Alternatives
When budget permits, a separate HVAC system for your smoking room can offer the ultimate solution, completely isolating smoke from the rest of your home’s air. This option, though costly, ensures your indoor smoking doesn’t infringe on the household’s air quality.
Furniture and Décor Choices
Opt for materials that resist smoke absorption, like leather or faux leather for seating, and minimize fabric items that can hold onto odors. This approach, along with choosing hard surfaces for floors, makes post-smoking cleanup easier and helps maintain a fresher room ambiance.
Conclusion
Enjoying cigars indoors doesn’t have to be a winter dilemma or a source of household contention. With the right preparation and some creative solutions, you can create a comfortable, smoke-friendly space that respects both your passion for cigars and your co-inhabitants preferences. Whether through strategic room selection, effective smoke management techniques, or investing in air purification, there are plenty of ways to keep the peace and the pleasure of a good cigar during the colder months.
The Cigar Guys 