How to Light a Cigar Like a Pro

Because a Clean Light Sets the Tone for the Whole Smoke

You’ve cut the cigar clean, poured your drink, and maybe settled into your favorite spot.

Now comes the moment that separates a smooth, satisfying smoke from a bitter, uneven one: lighting the cigar.

Lighting a cigar isn’t hard — but lighting it properly is where most beginners slip up. Scorched wrappers, uneven burns, lighting it like a cigarette… we’ve all seen it.

This guide walks you through how to light a cigar the right way, step by step, so you look confident and get the best flavor from every draw.

Why Lighting a Cigar Matters

A good cut gets you ready — but the light determines the entire smoking experience.

Here’s why learning how to properly light a cigar matters:

• Flavor depends on it. Overheating the tobacco right away makes the smoke harsh and bitter.
• Burn depends on it. A sloppy or rushed light = constant touch-ups.
• Draw depends on it. The foot (the lit end) needs an even ignition to deliver smooth airflow.

Lighting a cigar is like warming up a cast-iron skillet — slow, controlled heat makes the whole thing run better.

The best way to light a cigar is simple:

Slow down, rotate evenly, and keep the flame close to the tobacco — without touching it.

Know Your Tools

Lighting a cigar isn’t a one-tool-fits-all situation. Here are the most common options and when to use each.

1. Butane Torch Lighter

Best for beginners — clean, hot flame and easy control.

Why it works:

• No chemical taste
• Precise flame
• Lights quickly

How to use it properly:

• Hold the cigar a few inches above the flame.
• Never jam the cigar directly into the torch (rookie move).
• Rotate gently while toasting the foot.

2. Soft Flame Lighter

Traditional and lounge-friendly — but requires finesse.

Why choose it:

• Gentle heat
• Classic experience
• Great for slower smokers

Tips:

• Hold the cigar above the flame, not in it.
• Be patient — soft flames take longer to warm the tobacco.

3. Wooden Matches

Old school, relaxing, and classy when done right.

Rules to remember:

• Let the sulfur burn off first — don’t light your cigar with the sulfur flare.
• Use long cedar matches when possible.
• Rotate slowly and evenly while lighting.

Burton Tip: Avoid paper matches unless you enjoy the fine aroma of “cheap diner coffee and regret.”

4. What NOT to Use

If you take nothing else from this guide, take this:

Do not light your cigar with any of the following:

• Zippo or non-butane lighters (they add chemical taste)
• Candles (your cigar will smell like lavender pumpkin spice)
• Stove burners (yes… people try this)
• Anything scented, flavored, or designed for camping

If you’re learning how to properly light a cigar, the flame source matters as much as the technique.

Step-by-Step: How to Light a Cigar the Right Way

This is the part every beginner wishes someone told them before their first cigar.

Step 1: Toast the Foot

This is the “preheat.”

• Hold the cigar at a 45° angle above your flame.
• Keep the flame close, but not touching the tobacco.
• Rotate slowly.
• Look for the edges to darken and the foot to glow slightly.

Burton Tip: Toasting isn’t lighting — it’s warming. Don’t rush it.

Step 2: Light While Drawing

Now bring the cigar to your mouth.

• Hold the flame just below the foot (still not touching).
• Take slow, gentle puffs.
• Rotate as you puff to ensure even ignition.

This is the best way to light a cigar because it prevents scorching and gives you a smooth, clean start.

Step 3: Check Your Work

After a few puffs, examine the foot.

• Look for dark patches or spots that didn’t ignite.
• Touch up by holding the flame close and rotating until fully lit.

You want an orange, evenly glowing circle — the mark of a perfect light.

Lighting Special Shapes (Torpedoes & Perfectos)

Some cigars require a slightly different approach.

How to Light a Torpedo Cigar

Torpedoes narrow at the head, which means:

• They burn hotter at first
• You need to take your time
• Toasting is extra important

Warm the foot slowly and carefully before drawing.
A torpedo rewards patience with a more focused, flavorful smoke.

How to Light a Perfecto Cigar

Perfectos are closed at the foot — don’t panic.

Here’s how to light them correctly:

• Toast the small closed tip until it opens naturally
• Once the foot opens, light it like a normal cigar
• Keep rotations slow and steady

Burton Tip: Perfectos evolve as they open up — don’t rush the first stage.

Common Lighting Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Here’s what most beginners do wrong — and how you can skip that phase entirely.

• Pressing the cigar into the flameCauses charring and bitterness.
• Overheating the tobaccoLeads to harsh, sharp flavor.
• Drawing too hardMakes the burn uneven and the cigar run hot.
• Trying to light it like a cigaretteDifferent product, different technique. Respect the leaf.

How to Relight a Cigar (Yes, It Happens)

Even professionals relight — no shame here.

To relight properly:

1. Gently knock off excess ash.
2. Toast the foot again like step 1.
3. Puff lightly until it catches.

If you’re learning how to light a cigar, know this: relighting is normal. Rushing is not.

What to Use (and What to Avoid)

Use:

• Butane torch lighters
• Soft flame lighters
• Wooden cedar matches
• Butane tabletop lighters

Avoid:

• Zippos (unless you like “kerosene Connecticut”)
• Candles
• Paper matches
• Anything scented
• Kitchen appliances of any kind

Ready to Practice? Try a Sampler

Different cigars light differently — which is why our Burton Variety Packs are perfect for practicing your technique.

Each pack includes:

• A mix of cigar sizes and wrappers
• Ideal cigars for learning to toast and light
• Free shipping
• The Burton Value Guarantee

Let There Be (a Clean) Light

Lighting a cigar isn’t about speed — it’s about control, patience, and technique.

Do it right, and your whole smoke improves: better flavor, better burn, better experience.

Now that you know how to properly light a cigar, you can light up with confidence — and no one will guess you’re new to the game.