Abstract: An improved filter cartridge for use in cigar and cigarette holders is formed by a cylindrical cup having an inlet perforation in its side wall and a barrier wall extending from the bottom wall of the cup past and closely adjacent to the inlet perforation. The cartridge is used with a cigar or cigarette holder of the type having an internal cavity in which the cartridge is disposed and having conformations with which the open end of the cartridge interfits such that the flow of smoke proceeds from the cigarette recess of the holder to the cavity surrounding the cartridge and then through the inlet perforation against and past the barrier at the interior of the cartridge.