How do humidors work?
In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about how humidors work!
We will also cover the different types of humidors, and how to use and care for your humidor.
How Do Humidors Work?
A humidor keeps cigars fresh at a certain relative humidity level.
Cigars that are too dry shrivel up and lose their flavor and aroma. They will also burn incredibly hot, making smoking impossible.
On the other hand, excessively high humidity can result in tobacco beetle infestations, mold, and rot.
Whether it’s a box, a cabinet, or the size of a small refrigerator, each type of humidor will have a seal to keep the temperature inside consistent.
The Thermostat and Hygrometer
A humidor will also include a thermostat and hygrometer to help you maintain everything in order.
When it comes to your cigar collection, a humidor is a must to store cigars for longer than a few days or so.
The video below compares two humidors to help any beginner cigar smoker choose the right humidor:
Read our related article on How to Calibrate a Digital Hygrometer for Humidor. Make sure your digital hygrometer is working as it should with this guide!
The Humidification System
Without a humidification system, you won’t be able to maintain the precise temperature and moisture levels that cigars need to stay fresh.
The humidification system is a humidor’s most crucial component.
The humidifier fills the humidor to properly store your cigars with moisture, keeping your cigars plump and allowing them to burn gradually.
The essential oils that give your favorite cigars their distinctive flavor and aroma are preserved by proper humidity levels.
What is the perfect humidity for cigars? For ideal storage conditions, you should aim to maintain your humidor at a relative humidity of 70%.
Read our related article where we review the Best Humidor for Cigars.
Getting Moisture for Proper Humidity
The most basic humidifier is a sponge soaked in distilled water.
Although maintaining the humidity level can be difficult even with a low-tech humidifying device, this will cause moisture to be released in your humidor.
Read our related article, How Long Do Cigars Last? to see how long you can keep your cigars without smoking them!
Distilled Water or floral foam
You must use distilled water to keep your humidor free of minerals and mold.
Floral foam, or green foam blocks, are commonly used to hold flower stems in sophisticated floral arrangements and to add moisture to bouquets.
They can contain a lot of water and slowly release it, but they also absorb cigar scents and should be changed about once a year.
Read More: Humidors Plans. We discuss the first steps to get started on your DIY humidor!
Propylene Glycol
Propylene glycol works better with a foam humidifier than water since it automatically maintains 70% relative humidity, so you don’t have to worry about it.
You can find these little beads in packets when you purchase shoes.
Because silica gel is so adept at soaking up extra moisture, humidors in hot, humid areas can benefit from using it.
They won’t be effective if you reside in an arid region because they will dry out too rapidly.
Read More: Cannabis Humidors. Here’s what to look for in a humidor to keep your cannabis fresh!
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