What is a cigar humidor?
A cigar humidor (also called a humidifier) is a wooden box designed specifically to preserve cigars in optimal conditions, especially humidity but also temperature. They are lined internally with cedar wood, the most suitable material to create the perfect conservation and aging environment.
Why use a humidor?
The main purpose of a humidor is to prevent cigars from drying out while also supporting their natural aging process.
A high-quality humidor, built by professionals, ensures that cigars:
- Maintain their original characteristics
- Improve their flavors and aromas over time.
- Are always ready to be enjoyed in perfect condition.
Humidity inside the humidor
The ideal humidity level should remain around 70%. This figure is not arbitrary; it has been proven to be the most suitable level for cigar storage and aging.
Benefits of correct humidity
- Cigars neither dry out nor become over-humidified.
- Flavors and aromas develop more evenly.
- Ensures an even burn when smoking.
Problems caused by incorrect humidity
- Excess humidity (>80%): risk of mold, heavy flavors, and difficulty lighting cigars.
- Low humidity (<65%): dry, fragile cigars with bitter notes that burn too quickly.
Humidification systems
There are two main methods for maintaining humidity in a humidor:
Natural humidification
- Sponges soaked with distilled water, placed in trays or containers.
- Require frequent checks to ensure proper moisture levels.
Electronic humidification
Temperature inside the humidor
The recommended temperature range is 16 °C to 23 °C (60 °F to 73 °F).
If it is too low (<12 °C / 54 °F)
- Slows down cigar aging.
- May cause the wrapper to crack when lit.
If it is too high (>24 °C / 75 °F)
- Increases the risk of pests, such as the tobacco beetle.
Remember: humidity and temperature are closely linked. Heat raises humidity, while cold lowers it. Achieving balance is essential.
Cedar trays: order and care for your cigars.
Cedar: the best ally
All Wacota humidors are lined with cedar.
Benefits of cedar
- Regulates humidity by absorbing excess and releasing moisture when needed.
- Adds a natural aroma that enhances the cigars.
- Protects against fungi and insects, such as the tobacco beetle.
Why is a humidor the best option for storing cigars?
Without a humidor, cigars quickly lose flavor, aroma, and quality. With a humidor:
- Humidity stays at the ideal 65–75%.
- Cigars continue a controlled aging process that balances flavors.
- Prevents cracking, drying, or over-humidification.
- Keeps cigars neatly organized.
- Offers a wide variety of designs and finishes to fit any setting.
Variety of sizes in humidors.
How to choose a humidor
When choosing a humidor, consider:
- Number of cigars you plan to store.
- Whether you will keep loose cigars or full boxes.
- Intended use: aficionado (small or desktop models) or professional (display cabinets, large humidors, cellars).
- Visibility: closed wood or models with glass tops.
- Rotation: whether cigars will remain long-term or be consumed regularly.
- Humidification system: natural for small humidors, electronic for larger ones.
- Exterior finish: lacquered, varnished, or noble wood.
How to store cigars in the humidor
Placement affects preservation and flavor.
Mixing different brands
- Purists prefer separating them to maintain original aromas.
- Others argue mixing enriches cigars, as older ones release oils and aromas that blend with younger ones.
Cigars in tubes or cellophane
- Can be stored in their tubes, but they take up more space.
- Ideally, remove tubes or cellophane for better humidity circulation.
Keeping full boxes
- Maintains order and prevents aroma mixing.
- Convenient for storing complete series.