Are you a newbie when it comes to cigars? Do you want to make sure that your cigars are always fresh? If you’re just starting out in the world of cigars, you may wonder how to store them properly. Cigars are a unique product requiring special care if you want to keep them fresh and tasting great. In this article, we will discuss tips on storing cigars and keeping them in perfect condition. We’ll also cover some common mistakes that people make when it comes to cigar storage. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Use a Humidor for Proper Storage
If you want to keep your cigars fresh, you must invest in a humidor. A humidor is a special box or room designed to store cigars in an environment that mimics their natural habitat. This means maintaining a relative humidity of 70% and a temperature between 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit. By storing your cigars in a humidor, you will ensure they stay fresh and taste great for months or even years.
When choosing a humidor, it is important to select one that is the right size for your needs. There are different types of humidors available, and the size will determine how many cigars you can store. If you only smoke a few cigars per week, a small desktop humidor may be all you need. However, if you are an avid cigar smoker or want to age your cigars, you’ll need a larger humidor that can hold several hundred cigars.
Be sure to Season Your Humidor
Once you have selected the perfect humidor, it is important to season it before storing your cigars. Seasoning a humidor prepares it for optimal cigar storage by creating the ideal environment. To season your humidor, wipe the interior with a damp cloth and then dry it off completely.
Next, add a Boveda humidity pack or a damp sponge to the humidor and close it for 24 hours. After 24 hours, remove the Boveda pack or sponge and check the relative humidity. It should be between 68-70%. If it is not, repeat the seasoning process until it reaches the desired level. Ensure that you do not over-humidify your humidor, which can damage your cigars.
Choose the Right Cigars for Your Humidor
Now that you have a seasoned humidor, it is time to choose the right cigars to store inside. When selecting cigars, it is important to consider the size of your humidor and how long you plan to age the cigars. If you have a small humidor, it is best to choose smaller cigars that will age quickly.
On the other hand, if you have a large humidor, you can store a variety of cigar sizes and ages. It is important to rotate your cigars so that you can enjoy them at their peak flavor. When choosing cigars, be sure to inspect them for any damage and select only the best quality cigars. For instance, avoid cracked, dry cigars or loose wrappers.
Purchase a Humidistat and a Hygrometer
Once you have selected the cigars you want to store, it is important to purchase a humidistat and a hygrometer. A humidistat is a device that will automatically regulate the humidity in your humidor. A hygrometer is used to measure the relative humidity inside your humidor.
By using a humidistat and hygrometer, you can be sure that your cigars are being stored in the perfect environment. These devices are essential for proper cigar storage and will help to keep your cigars fresh for months or even years. For instance, if you plan to age your cigars, a hygrometer will allow you to monitor the progress and ensure that they are stored correctly.
Storing Your Cigars Properly
Now that you have a humidor, the right cigars, and the necessary tools, it is time to learn how to store your cigars properly. The most important thing to remember is that you must keep the relative humidity between 68-70%.
If the relative humidity falls below 68%, your cigars will become dry and lose flavor. If the relative humidity rises above 70%, your cigars will become too moist and may develop mold. To maintain the proper relative humidity, you will need to add a Boveda pack or a damp sponge to your humidor. These items will release moisture as needed to keep the relative humidity at the desired level. Be sure to check the relative humidity regularly and add moisture as needed.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Now that you know how to store cigars properly, it is important to avoid some common mistakes. First, never store your cigars in the refrigerator or freezer. The drastic temperature change will damage your cigars. Second, do not store your cigars in direct sunlight. The UV rays will dry out your cigars and damage the flavor.
Finally, do not store your cigars in an environment with high humidity. The excess moisture will cause your cigars to develop mold. By following these tips, you can be sure that your cigars will be fresh and enjoyable for months or even years.
By following these tips, you can be sure that your cigars will be fresh and enjoyable for months or even years. By taking the time to season your humidor, choose the right cigars, and purchase a humidistat and hygrometer, you can create the perfect environment for storing your cigars. Remember to check the relative humidity regularly and add moisture as needed to keep your cigars fresh. Avoid common mistakes such as storing your cigars in the refrigerator or freezer, and enjoy your cigars for years to come.