A Brief Overview and the Functionality of Humidors
When it comes to essential equipment for the avid cigar connoisseur, a humidor is one vital apparatus. Think of “humidity” as the underlying purpose of a cigar humidor. This cigar container regulates the air quality enclosed within it to keep temperature and moisture at the most favorable levels. Regulation of the storage environment for cigars is of particular importance to preserve flavor, freshness, and quality. Ensuring that you properly care for and correctly use your type of humidor can greatly elevate your lifestyle as a cigar smoker or collector.
What a Humidor Is Exactly
A humidor is an advanced storage unit with internal air quality control components for cigars. Humidors are made from a variety of materials in a vast array of sizes. One common material and size for the average cigar consumer is the wooden tabletop humidor box. Similar to a jewelry box or display case, this intuitive unit can also be made of other materials such as acrylic or metal. Even so, most humidors contain wooden components to control the temperature and moisture situation of the unit. Commercial humidors can range in size, from a cigar cabinet to a walk-in cigar cellar. Regardless of size and material, the hygrometer and humidifier are integral features of any humidor, in combination with the humidor's wood and seal.
Hygrometers keep track of the level of humidity inside the humidor and display this information digitally or analog-style. The digital systems are more modern, accurate, and easy to read than the analog alternative. Upon setup, the humidor is calibrated to read the humidity of the humidor accurately. The humidifier captures and expels moisture as needed to keep the system at optimal moisture levels. Some humidifiers are made of porous materials that act like a sponge within the system, while others electronically catch and release moisture.
The wood or other material that makes up each humidor works hand in hand with the way in which the unit is sealed. A humidor’s seal ensures that the temperature and humidity are being properly controlled by the other components of the system. Wood on the inside of a humidor is prevalent because of its ability to soak up and utilize moisture. Exposure to air when the humidor is open impacts the levels of the entire system. The seal therefore needs to be in working order and cared for properly to keep the cigar quality intact over time.
The Necessity of a Humidor
A humidor is a necessary investment given the delicate nature of cigars. In order to keep them ready to fully enjoy, storing them should be a top consideration. Cigars require strict air conditions similar to perishable products. In the same way that you store cold milk in the refrigerator or provide your houseplants with favorable lighting and temperature conditions, cigars need to be adequately contained during their shelf life. Humidors were designed to specifically meet the complex preservation requirements of a fresh cigar collection.
Improperly storing cigars can not only be a costly financial loss. Failing to store them properly also leads to the cigars becoming less flavorful and negatively impacts their texture. Imagine investing time and money in a unique or rare collection of cigars, but inadequate systems fail to preserve them. A quality humidor can protect the investment in a cigar collection, whether the collection is small or extensive. Properly maintaining your humidor ensures that your smoking experience meets or exceeds the effort you put into keeping your cigars ready to savor.
There are ideal ranges for a humidor to keep cigars in top condition. Whether it be a wineador cabinet or a travel container, humidors are designed for the temperature and humidity levels to hover around 65-72 degrees Fahrenheit and 60-72% humidity. These optimal levels protect the integrity of the cigars being stored. The correct temperature and moisture levels essentially shield the cigars from becoming damaged due to dryness, the wrapper becoming cracked, or the filler drying out over time. The correct temperature and humidity are the main purposes humidors serve besides keeping them stored and organized.
The Inner Workings of a Humidor
A few options exist on the market to comprise the humidor’s particular humidifier. Humidifier sponges, for example, are soaked in water, or half water and half propylene glycol. The liquids in the sponge help regulate the moisture inside the humidor, preventing dryness in the unit and thus the cigars. Humidor gels and beads function in a similar manner in order to gradually moisturize the air contained inside the unit without the air becoming too humid. On the other hand, electronic humidifiers automatically deposit moisture into the air inside the humidor. They require a power source and are commonly used with large humidors to perfectly regulate the humidity electronically.
The hinges of a humidor, the closures, and the gaskets play an important role in creating a secure seal to keep moisture inside the unit. An airtight, properly maintained humidor seal keeps both the temperature and humidity stable. The seal contributes to accurate thermostat and humidity readings, making it an important feature of the humidor. Choosing a humidor made from reliable materials with a solid seal is an essential step for it to function properly as a whole.
Various Uses and Types of Humidors
Many average cigar consumers opt for tabletop humidors. Like all humidors, home tabletop humidors can vary in size, price, and material. Smaller travel humidors are also used by average consumers and provide portability for cigar smokers on the go. They are useful for temporarily storing cigars for travel, or otherwise transporting them short term. Even so, either type of humidor can be found in a home or used in a business setting.
In other use cases, the serious collector might have a large unit or walk-in humidor depending on their level of interest. A pawn shop might only offer a small selection of cigars for purchase, therefore utilizing a tabletop or travel humidor. A cigar lounge might house a large electric humidor system that maintains exact temperature and moisture conditions. The interesting feature of either situation is how versatile the functionality of a humidor can be based on the user’s needs.
Properly Seasoning a New Humidor and Tips for Maintenance
To establish a regimen for humidity maintenance, the wood components in a new humidor should be seasoned. Always consult the instructions for each individual humidor model. Still, seasoning involves soaking the wood with enough liquid to support the proper humidity over a period of a few days to a few weeks. The exact timeframe and liquid solution depend on the wood and the type of humidor. It also depends on the amount of time the user chooses to dedicate to this part of the process, in addition to the local climate.
Calibrating your humidor's moisture levels is an initial step in preparing your new humidor to be seasoned. Next, the humidifier should be filled and placed in the sealed humidor after shaking off any excess liquid. A best practice is to allow the unit to reach the optimal moisture level over a period of a few days. After a few days, your humidity should read slightly higher than the normal moisture levels to allow room for the cigars to soak up some of the humidity. Add your cigars and monitor humidity to maintain an equilibrium of 60-72% moisture.
Avoid using tap water in your humidor or filling the humidifier to prevent molding. Refill the humidifier anytime humidity reads below 60%. If humidity levels exceed 72%, the humidifier can be removed and the lid left slightly open. Return the humidifier to the humidor once the levels have returned to the optimal range. Every week or two, rotate cigars around in the humidor.
The Care and Keeping of Your Humidor
Keeping your humidor clean is a basic step for protecting your cigars and your investment in the humidor itself. Wiping down the inside of your humidor a few times a year is a simple step for taking care of the unit. Before doing so, remove all cigars from the humidor. Use a damp cloth that is free of lent or chemicals to gently wipe it down. Because chemicals can impact the flavor of cigars, they should be avoided when cleaning your humidor.
A poorly maintained humidor can become molded or mildewed. A severely neglected humidor can even attract tiny bugs called tobacco beetles. Any form of neglect has the potential to ruin an entire collection of cigars. Proper care for your humidor determines the condition of your cigars when you are ready to smoke or utilize them. Cigars that were once brand new losing their aroma or tasting bad when put to use cause an unpleasant and disappointing experience for any cigar lover. Carefully maintain your humidor and your cigars will be well-kept to take care of your needs when the occasion arises.
The Most Common Humidor Problems and Troubleshooting Issue
A faulty seal or warping wood components can cause a humidor to dry out. If levels drop below optimal ranges, inspecting these elements is a necessary step. The humidor may require reseasoning and careful monitoring of the humidity to ensure it is adequately seasoned. If the humidor continues to dry out, there could potentially be issues with the wood. Light sanding and caulking is one option for warped wood. Otherwise warping should be assessed by a professional woodworker. A professional can repair or recommend if the humidor will need to be replaced.
Calibrating the humidity level of your humidor could be the fix if it fails to give accurate humidity readings. One method for calibrating or recalibrating it involves placing a capful of salt in a plastic bag inside the sealed humidor. Hours later, the humidity should read 75% if it is functioning properly. While other methods can be found online, the hygrometer may need to be replaced if it does not calibrate. Contacting the manufacturer for options is a good next step for a humidor that fails to calibrate or display accurate moisture readings.
In Closing
Owning a quality humidor is clearly a non-negotiable for cigar enthusiasts who make the choice to adequately protect their cigar collection. In doing so, keeping cigars in optimal condition requires a well-maintained humidor to assist with the preservation and quality-control process. The investment in a high-quality humidor is essential for enjoying cigars for the long haul. You will be glad you invested in your cigar collection by owning and maintaining a humidor that compliments your lifestyle. The convenience of a cigar holder that also keeps your precious cigars ready for any occasion is an unmatched perk for any modern cigar smoker or collector.