You may have started thinking about collecting cigars, but any improper storage can seriously compromise your smoking experience, leading to issues like uneven burning, bitter taste, damaged wrappers, difficulty in lighting, and even mold or tobacco beetle infestations. Therefore, it is crucial to know how to store cigars properly, which requires a delicate balance of moisture, temperature, flavor, and aroma. However, this balance can be easily affected by environmental changes. So, how do you store cigars properly. This post will delve into some best ways to store cigars, with and without humidors, and address all your burning questions.
How to Store Cigars in a Humidor?
A humidor is the most typical storage method for cigars, favored by many enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Humidors are usually made of wood, but options in aluminum or plastic are also available. The best material, backed by science, is Spanish cedar due to its ability to absorb moisture and import a subtle aroma to the cigars.
Most humidors include a hygrometer and humidifier, but these can be bought separately if needed. For example, you can invest in an INKBIRD IBS-TH3 WiFi Thermo-Hygrometer. Simply place it inside your humidor and connect it to your WiFi router, you can then remotely monitor the temperature and humidity of your humidor from your smartphone.
However, a humidor can be an investment - prices typically starts at $200, but beginners can find more affordable options. Regardless of the price point, it’s essential to follow the these proper steps to store your cigars in a humidor:
Season Your Humidor
Before you start storing cigars in a new humidor, it's essential to properly season it. Basically, this means letting the Spanish cedar absorb moisture. Otherwise, your cigars may dry out as the wood leeches moisture from them. You can, of course, store cigars in an unseasoned humidor, but this is like living in a bare-bones house and can be unpleasant.
To season your humidor, take a clean cloth, moisten it with distilled water and gently wipe the interior cedar surfaces, including the wall, dividers, and tray. Then, fill the humidifier with distilled water, as using tap water may clog it with minerals and chlorine.
Since the analog hygrometers included with most humidors can be unreliable, consider using an INKBIRD WiFi thermo-hygrometer for more accurate readings, which can be monitored remotely. Place the humidifier and the thermo-hygrometer inside, close the humidor, and let it sit for at least 3-5 days.
Check the humidity daily. If the reading consistently stabilizes between 65-72%, your humidor is properly seasoned.
Maintain Optimal Conditions
The golden rule for cigar storage is widely considered to be 70/70, meaning 70% relative humidity at 70°F (21°C). However, we recommend a slightly lower humidity level of around 67% to enhance the flavor and reduce issues like mold or tight draws.
Check the humidity in your humidor regularly and replenish the humidifier with distilled water every 2-4 weeks. Alternatively, for convenience, you can use Boveda packs or a smart humidity controller that can automatically maintain the desired humidity in the humidor.
As for temperature, keep your humidor at a steady 65-70°F (18-21°C). It's best to keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and air conditioning vents. High temperatures can lead to tobacco beetles and mold, while low temperatures can slow down the aging. Fortunately, as with humidity control, if you place your humidor in a room, you can use an automatic temperature controller to maintain the right temperature.
How Long Do Cigars Last in a Humidor?
Well-made cigars, much like brewing wine, don’t truly expire. Instead, their flavors can mellow, combine, and develop greater complexity, a process known as aging. With proper care and storage in a well-maintained humidor, cigars can last for many years, even decades.
However, if you notice that your cigars are hard, cracked, or split, or if they show signs of mold, excessive softness, a strong ammonia odor, or beetle damage, these are clear indicators that they are deteriorating.
How to Store Cigars Without a Humidor?
If you don't have a humidor or will be away for a few weeks, there's no need to worry. A ziplock bag or a plastic container can serve as a temporary solution for storing your cigars.
Before placing your cigars, thoroughly sanitize the container. Then place your cigars inside along with a humidor bag, sealing it tightly. If you have a vacuum sealer, you can use it to make a tighter seal.
Since cigars are sensitive to humidity, temperature, and light, make sure to keep the container in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Additionally, avoid storing it near odorous items, as your cigars can absorb these odors. This method will keep your cigars fresh for weeks.
Where to Store Cigars?
Regardless of whether you’re using a humidor or a temporary storage solution, the location matters significantly.
Choose a spot that remains consistently cool and dark. Avoid areas prone to extreme temperature swings like near windows, fireplaces, or air conditioning vents. Also, steer clear of direct sunlight. It’s also important to keep your cigars away from strong odors, as they can easily absorb scents from perfumes, cleaning products, and spices.
A quite, low-traffic area like a sturdy bookshelf, a dedicated cabinet, or an interior closet are often ideal spots.
