12 Tips for Proper Cigar Storage, Humidor, Humidity and Temperature
Proper cigar storage is the difference between a rich, fragrant, and balanced smoking experience and one that has dried out, cracked, burned too slowly or too quickly, and lost the flavor you bought it for. Handcrafted cigars, whether from Cuba, the Dominican Republic, or other regions, are a natural product. The tobacco leaves continue to react to their environment even after rolling, so any changes in humidity, temperature, and air affect the burn, aromas, and physical structure of the cigar.
In Israel, and especially in the Tel Aviv area, we often face a challenging combination of fluctuating relative humidity, prolonged summer heat, and air conditioning that dries out the air inside the home. Therefore, it is important to understand not only what a target number is, but how to actually reach it over time, how to measure correctly, and what to do when things go wrong. At BRILL CIGARS TEL AVIV, a cigar shop operating since 1997 and specializing in handmade cigars, including rare specialty cigars, we see time and again that cigars are preserved perfectly when worked in an organized manner, rather than by guesswork.
The guide below is structured around 12 practical tips. It is suitable for both those who have bought their first humidor, and those who have an advanced collection and want greater stability, less maintenance, and fewer surprises.
Tip 1, set a clear goal for humidity and temperature, not just a general range
Many people say to themselves, I'll keep my cigars in a slightly humid and cool place. In reality, cigars respond to precision. A recommended target for most smokers is around 65 to 70 percent relative humidity, and a temperature of about 18 to 21 degrees. These are not hard and fast rules, but they are a great starting point that balances smoking comfort with the risk of mold and pests.
If you like a light draw and a steady burn, many prefer a target of 65 to 68 percent. If you smoke big, thick cigars, sometimes 68 to 70 percent works well. The key is to pick one goal and then build a measurement and control system around it.
Tip 2, don't store cigars in a regular refrigerator, but you will understand when you need a cooling solution.
A standard home refrigerator is considered an unsuccessful solution for most cigars. It dries the air, creates temperature fluctuations, and introduces food odors that can be absorbed by the tobacco leaves. In addition, frequent door openings create sharp humidity fluctuations. On the other hand, in Israel in the summer, there are situations where you need to think about a dedicated cooling solution.
