Changing ashtrays Waiting staff should make regular rounds, clearing used ashtrays and replacing them with clean ones. Never remove an ashtray unless a clean one is available to replace the one removed The procedure for changing ashtrays is the same whether serving at table or at the bar. When clearing a used ashtray it must first be covered to avoid the possibility of spilling ash on the table or the bar. When the dirty ashtray has been covered and removed, replace it immediately with a clean Hold a clean ashtray in your right hand and place it over the dirty ashtray. The clean ashtray may be either way up. Remove the two ashtrays together using the one hand. Transfer the dirty ashtray to your left hand. Use your right hand to place a clean ashtray the right way up where the dirty one was Dirty ashtrays should be held in the left hand or on a service tray well away from the guests.