Best Cigarette Smoke Detector (2025 update)

Cigarette, weed and vape smoke detectors are used to identifying smoking in prohibited indoor spaces. Cigarette, weed and vape smoke detectors provide a solution for rental property owners, hotels, businesses, and parents concerned about the lingering odor and health hazards associated with indoor smoking. By utilizing advanced gas laser detection technology, these devices accurately detect and alert users to the presence of cigarette smoke, allowing for swift intervention. Rental car companies also benefit from implementing smoke detectors to monitor and prevent smoking in their vehicles. With cigarette smoke detectors, stakeholders can effectively track and address smoking activity, ensuring a healthier and more pleasant environment for all occupants.

Pros

Cons

  • Cigarette smoke detectors are relatively inexpensive. 
  • Air quality detectors for monitoring the presence of particulate matter in the air are easily found and commercially available.
  • Many detectors that detect the presence of Cigarette can also be used to detect the presence of vape and other smoking substances that produce smoke and particulate.
  • A regular Smoke Detector is not sensitive enough and one needs much more sensitive Smoke Cigarette Detector.
  • Cigarette smoke is often undertaken indoors and if in a connected apartment it will leak into other living areas.
  • Main problem with Cigarette smoke occurs with rented homes and cars causing big problems for landlords.
  • Limited options to detect cigarette smoke and smells.
  • Many companies offering expensive options not important for everyday people.

    Best Cigarette Smoke Detector?

    A regular Smoke Detector is not sensitive enough to detect cigarette smoke in the air. Therefore, one needs much more sensitive Smoke Cigarette Detector. The best and highest sold cigarette smoke detector is the Forensics Detectors Cigarette Smoke and Vape Detector.

    How Do Cigarette Smoke Sensors Work?

    Cigarette smoke detectors use advanced laser scattering sensors, which are more sensitive than the traditional photoelectric and ionization sensors. 

     Here's how a laser scattering sensor typically works:

    1. Light Source: The sensor includes a laser diode as its light source. This laser emits a focused, intense beam of light typically in the visible or near-infrared spectrum. 

    2. Sample Collection: Air containing particulate matter is drawn into the sensor through an inlet or sampling tube. 

    3. Scattering Interaction: As the air sample flows through the sensor's measurement chamber, the laser beam intersects with the airborne particles. 

    4. Photodetectors: The sensor contains one or more photodetectors positioned at specific angles around the measurement chamber. 

    5. Data Analysis: The scattered light detected by the photodetectors is then processed and analyzed by the sensor's electronics. 

    6. Calibration: Laser scattering sensors are typically calibrated using known reference particles of specific sizes and concentrations to ensure accurate measurements.

    7. Output: The mass of particulate matter per unit volume (e.g., micrograms per cubic meter) can be calculated based on particle size and concentration data.

    Features of Cigarette Smoke Detectors

    Cigarette smoke detectors come with various features, such as flashing lights, loud alarms, and automatic shut-off functions. Some cigarette smoke detectors can also transmit data via Wi-Fi to a computer or send text alerts to a phone.

    When choosing a cigarette smoke detector, it is essential to consider the size of the detector, the type of detector (smoke, CO2, or both), and the price. Some common features of good cigarette smoke detectors include a loud alarm, an automatic shut-off feature, and a battery life indicator.

    How to Test for Cigarette Smoke in Your Home

    To test for cigarette smoke in your home, you can hire an air quality detection company or consultant to run an air quality report in your home. These are most often local companies or individuals who can come to your home, test the air, and provide you with a report detailing the presence of specific gases and fumes, including cigarette smoke.

    Below is a video of a customer who is a landlord and used our cigarette smoke detector device to confirm his tenants where smoking. 

    What Can a Cigarette Smoke Detector Sniff?

    A cigarette smoke detector is specifically designed to detect cigarette smoke, vape and particulate emanating from the smoked substance. It can sense the presence of smoke particles in the air and trigger an alarm to alert people in the area. However, cigarette smoke detectors can also detect other types of smoke and gases that are similar to cigarette smoke.

    Some of the things that a cigarette smoke detector can sniff include:

    • Cigarette smoke: This is the main thing that a cigarette smoke detector is designed to detect. It can sense the presence of smoke particles in the air and trigger an alarm.

    • Vaping smoke: Cigarette smoke detectors can also detect the smoke produced by vaping devices. This is because the smoke produced by vaping devices contains similar particles to cigarette smoke.

    • Cooking smoke: Smoke produced by cooking can also trigger a cigarette smoke detector. This is because the smoke produced by cooking contains similar particles to cigarette smoke.

    • Wood-burning smoke: Smoke produced by wood-burning stoves and fireplaces can also trigger a cigarette smoke detector. This is because the smoke produced by burning wood contains similar particles to cigarette smoke.

    • Other types of smoke: Cigarette smoke detectors can also detect other types of smoke that are similar to cigarette smoke, such as smoke produced by incense or candles.

    How to Detect Cigarette Smoke in Your Vacation Rental

    As a property manager, it is important to ensure that your vacation rental is free from cigarette smoke. Here are some methods to help you identify indoor smoking:

    • Use your nose: The smell of cigarette smoke is often the first sign of smoking in your rental. If you smell smoke, it is important to investigate further.

    • Look for ashtrays: Check for ashtrays or cigarette butts in the rental. If you find any, it is likely that someone has been smoking in the rental.

    • Check for smoke stains: Look for smoke stains on walls, ceilings, and furniture. These stains can be yellow or brown in color and may be difficult to remove.

    By detecting cigarette smoke in your vacation rental, you can take action to prevent future smoking and ensure that your rental remains clean and comfortable for all guests.

    Is there a Smoke Detector that will Detect Cigarette Smoke?

    Yes, there are very sensitive cigarette smoke detectors available from Forensics Detectors that can detect cigarette smoke. These detectors are specifically designed to detect smoke particles that are produced by cigarette smoke.

    How to Prevent Guests from Smoking in Your Properties

    To minimize the risk of guests smoking in your rental properties, there are several proactive strategies that you can implement.

    Educate Guests About No-Smoking Policies

    One of the best ways to prevent smoking at your properties is to educate guests about your no-smoking policies. While mentioning your no-smoking policy in your listing is a good start, it is important to share your rules and guidelines with guests after they book. This can be done by including your no-smoking policy in your house rules and sharing it with guests before they check in. Additionally, sending guests a pre-stay message that serves as a friendly reminder of the most important guidelines they should follow during their stay, including the fact that smoking in your unit is prohibited, can be helpful. It is also important to include clear signage at your property that smoking indoors is prohibited.

    Offer Outdoor Smoking Areas

    While discouraging smoking at your property is important, providing an outdoor smoking area can be a good compromise. This can be as simple as providing a small table and some chairs, as well as an ashtray and trash can. By offering a designated place for guests who smoke, they will be less inclined to break your house rules and smoke indoors.

    Can Cigarette Smoke Detectors Be Installed in Apartments?

    Yes, cigarette smoke detectors can be installed in apartments. In fact, many landlords and property managers choose to install them to detect smoking in non-smoking units and common areas.

    Installing cigarette smoke detectors can help landlords and property managers enforce their non-smoking policies and protect the health and safety of their tenants. It can also help prevent damage to the property caused by cigarette smoke.

    Do Airbnb Hosts Need to Provide Cigarette Smoke Detectors?

    Airbnb hosts are not required to provide cigarette smoke detectors, but it is highly recommended to ensure the safety of guests and the property. Smoke detectors are mandatory in most states and localities, but cigarette smoke detectors are not as commonly required by law.

    However, hosts can purchase and install cigarette smoke detectors to prevent guests from smoking in their rental units. These detectors can detect the presence of cigarette smoke and alert the host to take action.

    It is important to note that hosts should clearly state their smoking policy in their listing and house rules. If smoking is not allowed, hosts should make it clear to guests and enforce the rule. Installing cigarette smoke detectors can help with enforcement and prevent damage to the property.

    Is there a way to detect cigarette smoke without a smoke detector?

    Yes, there are several ways to detect cigarette smoke without a smoke detector. Here are some methods:

    • Visual Inspection: One of the most obvious ways to detect cigarette smoke is through visual inspection. Look for ashtrays, cigarette butts, and smoke residue on walls, ceilings, and furniture. If you see these signs, it's likely that someone has been smoking in the area.

    • Air Quality Test: Another way to detect cigarette smoke is through an air quality test. This involves using a device to measure the level of smoke particles in the air. Air quality tests can be conducted by professionals or with a DIY kit.

    • Secondhand Smoke Detector: A secondhand smoke detector is a device that is specifically designed to detect cigarette smoke. These detectors are equipped with sensors that can detect smoke particles in the air. They are often used in public places such as hotels, restaurants, and offices.

    • Nose: Finally, one of the most basic ways to detect cigarette smoke is through your sense of smell. If you smell smoke, it's likely that someone has been smoking in the area.

    Can Cigarette Smoke set off Carbon monoxide detector?

    No they cannot.

    Only if you blow directly in the smoke detector with high smoke concentration will it set it off.

    Does Smoking Produce Carbon Monoxide Gas?

    Yes, cigarettes do produce carbon monoxide gas. However due to the dilution effects in a room, it is unlikely a CO detector will be triggered during cigarette smoking.

    What do Cigarette Smoke Detectors Look Like?

    Ceiling mount vape detectors look like smoke detectors or carbon monoxide alarms. Handheld version look like a hand held sniffer and industrial units look like heavy duty control equipment.

    Who Needs a Cigarette Smoke Detector?

    • Schools to Detect Students Who Smoke Cigarettes in restrooms or indoor spaces. Perfect for teachers and administrators.
    • Hotel to Detect unauthorized Cigarette Usage in Rooms and Lobby.
    • Landlords to detect and monitor Cigarette Usage by tenants.
    • Rental Car Companies to track drivers when smoking.

    Final Words

    Gas detection is key in cigarette smoke detectors, which identify smoke from cigarettes, cannabis, vape, and weed. These versatile devices, known as smoke detectors, weed detectors, marijuana detectors, cannabis detectors, cannabis odor detectors, vape detectors, or cigarette smell detectors, offer a comprehensive solution for monitoring various smoke types. Landlords benefit from installing permanent cigarette smoke detectors for continuous measurement, ensuring long-term property monitoring. By detecting smoke from multiple sources, these detectors maintain a smoke-free environment and protect the health and well-being of tenants and property owners. Gas detection technology is essential in providing accurate and reliable results in identifying smoking activities indoors.

      About the Author

      Dr. Kos Galatsis ("Dr.Koz") is the President of FORENSICS DETECTORS, where the company operates from the scenic Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles, California. He is a subject matter expert on gas sensor technology, gas detectors, gas meters, and gas analyzers. He has been designing, building, manufacturing and testing toxic gas detection systems for over 20 years.

      gas detector expert

      Every day is a blessing for Dr. Koz. He loves to help customers solve their unique problems. Dr. Koz also loves spending time with his wife and his three children going to the beach, grilling burgers, and enjoying the outdoors.

      Read more about Forensics Detectors here.

      Email:  drkoz@forensicsdetectors.com
      Phone: +1 424-341-3886

      Cigarette smoke detector

      About The Author

      Dr. Kos Galatsis ("Dr. Koz") is the CEO of Forensics Detectors that operates from the scenic Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles, California. He is a subject matter expert on gas sensor technology, gas detectors, gas meters and gas analyzers. He has been designing, building, manufacturing and testing toxic gas detection systems for over 20 years.

      Everyday is a blessing for Dr. Koz. He loves to help customers solve their unique problems. Dr. Koz also loves spending time with his wife and his three children going to the beach, grilling burgers, and enjoying the outdoors.

      Read more about Forensics Detections here.

      Email:  drkoz@forensicsdetectors.com
      Phone: +1 424-341-3886

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