How to Keep Cigars Fresh: The Guide to Proper Cigar Storage

If you’re new to cigars, then you may be wondering how to keep cigars fresh. The quality of your smoke is not only dependent on the cigar you’re smoking, but on how well maintained the cigar is. Proper storage is essential to maintain the flavor, aroma, and integrity of your cigars. In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of keeping cigars fresh, the role of humidity and temperature, and various storage solutions to ensure your cigars remain in prime condition.

Understanding Cigar Freshness

Freshness in cigars is closely tied to their humidity and temperature. A cigar that is properly stored will offer a rich, consistent flavor and a smooth draw. Conversely, cigars that are too dry or too moist can result in an unpleasant smoking experience.

Humidity levels between 65-72% are ideal for maintaining cigar freshness. At this range, cigars retain their oils and flavors, ensuring they age gracefully. Additionally, the temperature should be kept between 65-70°F to prevent mold growth.

The Role of Humidity

Humidity is the most critical factor in keeping cigars fresh. When cigars are exposed to the correct humidity levels, the tobacco leaves remain supple and aromatic. Too much humidity, however, can bring you difficulty in keeping it lit, can affect the draw and flavors, and can even lead to mold growth. On the other hand, low humidity can dry out the cigar, making it brittle and causing it to burn too quickly and unevenly.

To maintain the right humidity levels, you’ll need to invest in a quality humidor to keep the humidity levels where they need to be. With humidity packets and a good hygrometer, you’ll be able to monitor and maintain the quality, preserving your cigars.

Choosing the Right Humidor

A humidor is a must-have when storing cigars. There are various types of humidors, including wooden, acrylic, travel, and electronic humidors. When choosing a humidor, consider the following key features:

• Seal Quality: A good seal ensures that the humidity levels remain consistent within the humidor.
• Humidity Control Systems: These can range from simple humidification packs to advanced electronic systems that automatically regulate humidity.
• Size of the Humidor: If you have a large humidor that’s made to store lots of cigars, but you only have a couple cigars to put in there, it can be easy to either over-humidify or under-humidify the few cigars you do have.
• Type of Wood: Most humidors have a cedar lining, which is great for cigar storage. Most woods will be fine for maintaining proper humidity levels, but they may impact how your cigars taste (usually a positive impact, but different nonetheless).

Before using a new humidor, it’s crucial to season it. Seasoning involves wiping down the interior with distilled water and placing a small dish of distilled water inside for 24-48 hours. This process prepares the wood to absorb and maintain the proper humidity levels.

Maintaining Your Humidor

Regular maintenance of your humidor is essential to keep your cigars fresh. Here are some tips:

• Monitoring Humidity Levels: Check your hygrometer regularly to ensure the humidity stays within the ideal range.
• Monitoring Heat Levels: Generally, you don’t have to worry about this, but in extreme climates, it’s an important step. It’s best practice to keep your cigars under 90º F (32º C) and a few degrees above freezing point, as moisture freezing within the cigars can damage them.
• Refilling Humidification Devices: If you are using a humidifier sponge, use distilled water or a propylene glycol solution to refill your humidification devices. Distilled water prevents mineral buildup, while propylene glycol helps maintain a stable humidity level. If you’re using a Boveda packet, just periodically check to make sure they aren’t hardened.

Alternative Storage Solutions

While a humidor is the best option for long-term storage, there are alternative solutions for short-term or budget-conscious cigar storage:

• Ziploc Bags with Humidity Packs: Place your cigars in a Ziploc bag with a humidity pack to maintain moisture levels.
• Tupperware Containers: These can serve as temporary storage, especially when combined with a humidity pack.
• Wine Coolers: With some modifications, wine coolers can be an effective storage solution, providing a stable temperature and humidity environment.

Each method has its pros and cons, but they can be effective for keeping cigars fresh in a pinch.

Traveling with Cigars

For the traveling cigar aficionado, maintaining cigar freshness on the go is crucial. Portable humidors and travel cases are designed to protect your cigars and maintain the proper humidity levels. Before traveling, ensure your cigars are adequately humidified and consider using a travel case with built-in humidification to keep them fresh during your journey.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Storing cigars improperly can lead to a range of issues. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Over-humidification: Signs include a spongy feel and difficulty in lighting the cigar. Regularly monitor your hygrometer to avoid this.
• Storing Cigars in the Fridge or Freezer: These environments are too dry and can damage your cigars. Always store cigars in a humidor or other appropriate container.
• Neglecting Regular Checks: Without regular checks, humidity levels can fluctuate, leading to dry or overly moist cigars. Make it a habit to check your humidor at least once a week.

Keeping your cigars fresh is a vital aspect of cigar enjoyment. By understanding the importance of humidity and temperature, choosing the right storage solution, and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure your cigars remain in excellent condition for years to come. Investing in proper storage and maintenance will enhance your smoking experience, preserving the rich flavors and aromas that make cigars so enjoyable.

Cubano Central Humidors

Investing in a good humidor is essential for anyone with a cigar collection. Humidors are specially designed to provide a controlled environment for your cigars, keeping your cigars in good condition so you can enjoy your smoke without uneven burning, ashy flavors, and unravelling wrappers.

Cigar Storage FAQs

How long can cigars be stored?

With proper storage, cigars can be aged and stored for years.

What to do if cigars dry out?

If your cigars dry out, slowly reintroduce them to a humidified environment. Avoid rapid rehydration, as it can cause the wrapper to crack.

Can over-humidified cigars be saved?

Yes, place them in a humidor with a slightly lower humidity level and allow them to stabilize over time.

Best practices for long-term storage?

Ensure consistent humidity and temperature, avoid direct sunlight, and keep your humidor clean and well-maintained.