Maintaining Cigars: Tips for Proper Storage & Care

Posted on September 10th, 2024. 

Welcome to our article about maintaining cigars! Whether you're a seasoned cigar aficionado or new to the world of smoking, proper storage and care is essential for enjoying the best possible smoking experience. In this article, we will provide you with tips and guidelines on how to properly store and care for your cigars, ensuring that they remain in top condition and deliver the rich, flavorful smoke you crave. 

From the type of humidor you choose to the frequency of maintenance, there are many factors to consider when it comes to maintaining cigars. By following our advice, you can ensure that your cigars are always ready to be enjoyed, whether it's for a special occasion or a relaxing evening at home. 

So, without further ado, let's dive into the world of cigar maintenance and learn how to keep your cigars in top shape! 

Cigar Storage Basics 

One of the primary aspects of cigar storage is maintaining the correct humidity levels. Ideally, cigars should be stored at a relative humidity of about 65% to 72%. This range ensures that the cigars remain supple and flavorful while preventing mold growth or cracking. Humidity that is too low can cause the cigars to dry out and lose essential oils, leading to a harsh smoking experience. On the other hand, high humidity levels can make cigars too moist, which can affect their burn and draw. Utilizing a reliable hygrometer to monitor the humidity and make adjustments as necessary is key to keeping your cigars in prime condition. 

Temperature also plays a critical role in cigar storage. The optimal range for storing cigars is between 65°F and 70°F. Temperatures outside this range can accelerate the aging process or invite tobacco beetles, which thrive in warmer conditions and can ruin an entire collection. Extreme fluctuations in temperature should be avoided, as they can cause the cigars to expand and contract, leading to cracked wrappers and compromised structure.  

Ensuring that cigars are stored in a well-ventilated but controlled environment contributes significantly to their longevity. Proper ventilation helps in circulating air and maintaining consistent humidity and temperature levels, preventing stagnant conditions that can lead to mold and other issues. 

How to Store Cigars Without a Humidor 

If you don't have a humidor, there are still practical methods to maintain your cigars in good condition. 

One popular trick is using any airtight plastic container. Start by selecting a container that's large enough to comfortably hold your cigars without cramming them. Next, you'll need a humidity source, like Boveda packs, which come pre-calibrated to specific humidity levels. Place your cigars and the humidity pack inside the container, sealing it well to ensure the environment stays consistent.  

Another effective solution involves using large Ziploc bags combined with humidity packs. This method works surprisingly well, especially if you only have a few cigars to store. Place your cigars and a humidity pack inside the Ziploc, expelling as much air as possible before sealing. For added protection, you can double-bag your cigars to better control the internal atmosphere. It's essential to store the bags in a cool, dark place to further protect them from temperature fluctuations. Keep in mind that this is a short-term solution and, while effective, a more permanent storage option like a humidor is preferable for longer periods. 

Debunking Myths: Storing Cigars in Refrigerators and Wine Fridges 

Let's dive into the myths surrounding the idea of storing your cigars in either a regular refrigerator or a wine fridge. It's a common misconception that these appliances can serve as convenient cigar storage solutions, but there are significant drawbacks to be aware of. Should I store my cigars in the refrigerator? The short answer is no. Regular refrigerators are designed to keep food and drinks very cold and have a low humidity environment, typically around 30% to 40%. This is vastly different from the ideal 65% to 72% humidity range needed for cigars. Storing cigars in the refrigerator will dry them out, leading to cracked wrappers and a loss of essential oils, which directly affects flavor and smoking quality.  

So, what about a wine fridge? It’s slightly better but still not the ideal choice for cigar storage. Wine fridges can maintain a temperature similar to the recommended range for cigars, usually between 50°F and 65°F, which is a step in the right direction compared to a refrigerator. However, the challenge with a wine fridge lies in humidity control. Wine fridges are not built to maintain the higher humidity levels required for cigars, often resulting in cigars that are too dry.  

Instead of relying on refrigerators or wine fridges, investing in a proper humidor is the most effective way to ensure your cigars remain in peak condition. Humidors are specifically designed to maintain the optimal humidity and temperature levels that cigars require. They come in various sizes and styles, catering to different budgets and storage needs.   

Organizing Your Collection: Best Practices for Storing Different Cigars Together 

Organizing your collection is another key aspect of proper cigar storage, especially when it comes to storing different cigars together. Whether you have a variety of brands or different cigar types like robustos, toros, and churchills, each has its own unique flavor profile, thanks largely to their specific blends and aging processes. Storing these together can sometimes lead to flavor cross-contamination. To avoid this, use dividers within your humidor or consider keeping cigars in their original cello wrappers. The wrappers act as a barrier protecting each cigar's distinct aroma and flavor. Alternatively, you can organize your humidor by placing cigars from the same brand or similar flavor profiles together. This way, if any flavors do mingle, it will be less noticeable and won’t affect the overall smoking experience significantly. 

Maintaining cigar freshness doesn't end with proper humidity and temperature. Another important consideration is ensuring cigars aren’t overcrowded in your humidor. Air needs to circulate freely around each cigar to maintain even humidity levels. Think of your humidor as a mini-climate system; just as your home’s HVAC system needs space to circulate air effectively, so does your humidor. Overcrowded conditions can lead to uneven aging and potential mold growth. If you have more cigars than your humidor can comfortably handle, consider adding another humidor to your collection or rotating your cigars periodically. This practice not only helps in preserving cigar freshness but also allows you to inspect each cigar regularly, ensuring they remain in prime condition. 

When thinking about the best place to store cigars in a house, aim for cool, stable environments away from direct sunlight and sudden temperature or humidity fluctuations, such as basements or interior closets. Avoid keeping them in attics or garages where conditions can be more extreme. If your humidor is positioned in a suitable spot but you're still experiencing fluctuations, simple solutions like adding an extra layer of insulation or using weather-stripping around doors can help create a more stable environment. 

And always keep a hydrometer and thermometer handy. These simple tools can guide you to make minor adjustments that will drastically improve your storage conditions. With careful attention to these details, your cigars will be well-preserved and ready to offer their best flavors and aromas whenever you decide to enjoy them. 

Visit us 

We at Cigar Room 2 are passionate about providing you with everything you need to store and enjoy your cigars to the fullest. From our curated selection of cigars available in our Shop to exclusive experiences through our Cigar Room II Events, we’re here to enhance your cigar lifestyle. Our Cigar of the Month Locker subscription is designed to offer you the perfect blend of convenience and discovery, carefully curated to meet both beginner and expert needs. 

So why not take that next step? Whether you’re looking to expand your collection or indulge in unique smoking experiences, visit our store at 51 Springfield St, Agawam, Massachusetts, 01001. Reach out to us at [email protected] or call us at (413) 285-8078 for any guidance or inquiries. We’re more than just a cigar retailer; we’re your partner in enjoying the world of cigars.