Humidors

Cigars are interesting and temperamental. They like their surroundings to be temperature-controlled and the moisture levels perfectly balanced. A box of good cigars can be very expensive, so it only makes sense that you would want to keep your favorite brand of cigars as long as possible.

The shelf life for cigars is typically 2 weeks. However, by keeping a regulated temperature and humidity level, your high-quality cigars will stay as fresh as the day they were purchased. That’s where a good quality cigar humidor can make all the difference.

What is a Cigar Humidor?

A humidor is a box-like machine that has several components that are designed to keep cigars fresh. They are available in different sizes. Some humidors are small containers, often with a glass top so you can display the cigars inside even while keeping them fresh. Others are the size of a mini-refrigerator. Specialty cigar shops may also offer a walk-in humidor where cigar stock is stored and protected.

No matter what size the humidor may be, the components consist of:

• Humidifier
• Hygrometer
• Thermostat
• Cedar casing

A humidifier provides moisture to the enclosed space to avoid the tobacco from drying out. This is similar to a humidifier that you may use in your home during the winter months to avoid dry air. Without controlled humidity, cigars can quickly dry up in heat and lose their aroma and incredible flavor. On the flip side, cigars that are exposed to too much moisture can mold and rot.

A hygrometer is a meter that displays the humidity reading. They are normally wired to the humidifier so that you will have an accurate reading. Some hygrometers are digital while others are in analog form. The ideal humidity level is 70%.

A thermostat can be either a simple manual thermometer or a more elaborate model that is wired into the other controls. The thermostat is very important in maintaining the correct temperature. The approximate temperature setting for cigars is 60 degrees to 70 degrees F. If the temperature goes above 72 degrees, it can turn into a breeding ground for tobacco beetles. These pesky little insects love damp and warm weather.

Cedar casing is mentioned because cedar repels insects and prevents decay. Spanish cedar has been a long-standing choice for quality confinement of cigars. Cedar is also a favorite of many for delivering a magnificent scent and flavor to unwrapped cigars. All cedar must go through a seasoning process before using as a humidor compartment. This helps to stabilize the moisture in the compartment before adding the cigars.

Types of Humidors

Humidors may seem complex in design, but they are really quite simple in form. They have few parts and a compartment for storing cigars.

Wooden humidors, preferably cedar, are the most popular model. However, humidors are available in glass and acrylic glass. Some users complain that glass and acrylic can affect cigar flavors and aromas, but it’s really a matter of personal preference.

There are many types of humidors coming on the market today to keep up with the lifestyle of avid cigar smokers. Travel humidors are becoming a novelty for those that enjoy a cigar in the car, on the golf course or to pack in a suitcase. Our Montero 1939 Humidor Book is an excellent example of a travel humidor, and comes with 5 Montero cigars.

We offer a variety of beautiful, high quality humidors that offer stylish storage for your treasured cigar collection. We also offer humidor crystals, water pouches and other humidor accessories -- everything you need to keep cigars fresh. Shop with us today!