Cigar Care

Cigar Care & Storage

Humidification

Manufacturers keep rolling rooms at 72% humidity and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows the cigar parts to equalize in moisture content and dry down. If cigars are kept at approximately 72% humidity/70 degrees Fahrenheit, they should remain in perfect condition for an indefinite period. Remember, if the temperature decreases, the humidity should increase. Do not let the temperature and the humidity get too high. If the humidity and temperature rise above 75, an incubator environment may be created. Tobacco beetles could develop in the humidor and destroy cigars. Also, higher temperatures may cause white mold to develop on the cigars.

If the temperature is low and the humidity is below 70%, cigars will age improperly and dry out. If cigars to dry out, it is possible for them to be revitalized. Put the cigars back into the humidor and slowly return them to the correct temperature and humidity level. For the first week, do not humidify the humidor fully. Increase the humidity and temperature gradually for two weeks. By the third week, the humidor should be at 70/70. Examine the cigars occasionally to see how they feel. It could take a few months to restore your cigars to the right moisture level. Is the cigar as good as it was originally? You only know what the cigar is like when you smoke it.

Never freeze or refrigerate a cigar. Refrigeration does not allow the cigar the natural humidity it needs to age. A freezer also removes moisture, and the drastic change in temperature may make the cigar break or crack.

A dry cigar will unravel (the second biggest complaint of smokers), will have less flavor and aroma, and will burn unevenly. It is less mild and will flake off in your mouth. An over-humidified cigar will become soft and will not burn properly. A cigar will become unsmokeable if kept improperly. Make sure your cigars do not become exposed to strong heat or light, for example, by leaving them on the front seat of the car. Cellophane is an excellent way to protect cigars from breakage and to keep them clean. However, it will not protect them from drying out or fading under light. Keep cigars in an airtight humidor with a good humidification device.

Humidors

Is a humidor an absolute necessity? Yes, if you love smoking cigars and want to make sure you are maintaining them properly. A humidor is probably the only accessory you really need if you purchase quantities of cigars.

What makes a good humidor? It should provide constant humidity to the cigars over a long time. Cedar is often considered the best type of wood to use for the interior of a humidor, because it has the ability to allow the various tobaccos to age and marry. The wood should be natural because no other substance should permeate the cigars, therefore changing the taste. Tobacco has a natural tendency to absorb all odors with which it comes into contact. To ensure constant humidity and temperature within the humidor, it should be airtight.

There are several humidification systems on the market that frequently rely on chemical compounds and/or distilled water. You need a quality humidification system just as you need a well-built humidor. The exterior aesthetics of the humidor are just personal taste.

In a pinch, you can make a temporary humidor from a Tupperware container. A wet sponge in a plastic baggie (with holes) can also make a humidification system. A tin coffee can with a shot glass of water in the center also works. Anything airtight, with a moisture source that does not touch the cigars, will keep cigars from drying out. This should only be a temporary fix until you can obtain a quality storage unit. And don't put the Tupperware in the refrigerator!

Fine cigars should not deteriorate if kept at correct humidity levels. Many experts believe that cigars cannot age properly in cellophane. If you have a good humidor and want your fine cigars to age properly and intermarry, thus improving in flavor and aroma, take off the cellophane. Also, keep similar cigars together. Do not mix Connecticut wrappers with Cameroon or Maduros. Also, never store flavored cigars with unflavored cigars, unless you want the flavor to permeate all the cigars.