Hobbies And Interests
Hygrometer
Store your cigars at 70 percent humidity and a temperature range of 70 degrees F. Variations between 65 and 75 percent is OK. Different humidors contain humidity differently and variations occur in most hygrometers of a 1 to 2 percent range. The hygrometer should be hung on the humidor lid as it needs room to accurately measure the heat and humidity of the humidor. If your hygrometer needs calibrating after shipment, adjust it by inserting a screw into the back and turning it to the desired setting. Test the hygrometer by wrapping a damp cloth around it for 10 minutes. The hygrometer should read 95 percent once the cloth is removed. Adjust the hygrometer accordingly.
Humidifier
Prepare the humidifier for use in your humidor. Remove it from any packaging and clean it using distilled water or a mixture of 50 percent distilled water and 50 percent propylene glycol. Add the solution through the openings on the front of the humidifier. Do not soak the humidifier. It should be wet and not dripping. Wipe any water away that has leaked and put the humidifier into the humidor.
Preparation
Do not rub down the inside of your humidor during setup as this may damage the inside. If the humidor has not been used yet, this may hurt the wood and introduce bacteria that will damage the wood. Put a shot glass of water into the bottom of the humidor and leave it for 72 hours. Heat the water in the microwave for better results. Place your humidifier and hygrometer into the humidor. Close the lid of the humidor and put it in a location free of breeze or heat from a radiator. Store the humidor for a few days, checking the hygrometer occasionally. Once it steadily reads between 68 and 72 percent, it is ready for use.