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How to Use a Humidor & How to Care for Cigars

If you collect cigars, you will need to care properly to ensure they stay fresh. A humidor is an invaluable tool for any aspiring cigar aficionado to preserve the quality of their cigars. Without a humidor, your cigars will dry out and lose their rich flavor over time. Exposure to sunlight can speed up this process. To keep your cigars at their best, make sure you store them correctly.

Things You'll Need

  • Hygrometer
  • Microfiber towel
  • Wood cleaner
  • Glass
  • Plastic bag
  • Sponge or towel
  • Plastic container
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Instructions

    • 1

      Maintain optimum temperature in the humidor. The ideal temperature for a humidor is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not go below 65 degrees or exceed 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The optimum level of humidity for proper cigar preservation is 70 percent. Check your thermometer and hygrometer regularly to ensure that your cigars are being kept in the best environment possible for their long term storage.

    • 2

      Store the humidor in a cool, dry location when in use. Direct sunlight will affect the performance of the humidor, so keep it away from windows. Good storage locations are inside cabinets or drawers. When storing, keep the humidor level on a flat surface to keep cigars from tipping.

    • 3

      Avoid using harsh cleaners on your humidor, which can affect the quality of your cigars. Instead, wipe the humidor clean with a damp, microfiber towel. For the outside of the humidor, use furniture polish and wood cleaners to keep it in good condition.

    • 4

      Check the reading on the hygrometer before storing any cigars in your humidor. When using a humidor for the first time, place a glass of water inside the box and close it. The wood will absorb the water. After a few hours, check the hygrometer to determine the humidity level. Keep checking periodically until it has reached 70 percent humidity. Remove the glass and what remains of the water. You can now store your cigars in the humidor.

    • 5

      Wrap cigars in plastic if a humidor is not available. While humidors are ideal, cigars can be preserved short term in plastic bags that are sealed shut. Dip a sponge or paper towel in distilled water and place on the outside of the bag. Place the sponge and bag in a plastic container and store on the shelf of a cool, dry cabinet. To ensure you enjoy them at their best, use the cigars within two weeks.


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