The hygrometer: your ally for humidity control

Humidity inside humidors is the key element for the perfect preservation of cigars. Therefore, it is important to monitor humidity levels inside the humidor with a hygrometer. This instrument is used to measure air humidity, which is commonly expressed as a relative percentage.

Hygrometers are useful in a variety of applications, such as climate monitoring and condition control in environments like laboratories, warehouses, homes, and more. For this reason, there are different types of hygrometers to cover a wide range of uses.

When it comes to humidors, the most commonly used hygrometers are analog and digital. The analog hygrometer is made with organic materials that change in length or volume depending on environmental humidity, such as hair, animal membranes, wood, or textile fibers. On the other hand, the digital hygrometer uses an electronic sensor to measure humidity, such as a capacitive sensor (two metal plates separated by a layer of hygroscopic material).

Which hygrometer to choose?

The main differences between the two are accuracy, with digital being more precise, and price, with analog being more affordable. In terms of measurement range, household hygrometers usually measure between 20% and 90% relative humidity, while industrial ones have a broader range.

Hygrometers come factory-calibrated, but they can become uncalibrated if exposed to conditions that affect their sensitivity and accuracy. This can happen due to prolonged exposure to high humidity or extreme temperatures, impacts or vibrations that alter their internal mechanisms, or, in the case of analog hygrometers, natural deterioration or aging of organic materials like hair or metal.

For digital hygrometers, humidity sensors can become dirty from airborne particles or be exposed to extreme conditions. Their circuits can also become misconfigured due to high power surges or wear and tear.

Properly calibrating the hygrometer ensures reliable readings to keep your humidor in optimal conditions. To calibrate analog models, you should use a saturated salt solution method. This involves filling a container with salt and a few drops of distilled water to create a damp paste, then placing the hygrometer alongside the container inside a sealed bag or container. After 24 hours at room temperature, the hygrometer should read exactly 75% relative humidity.

If, after the waiting time, the hygrometer does not display 75% relative humidity, analog models require adjusting the calibration screw or wheel to move the needle to 75%. If it is a digital hygrometer without a manual adjustment option, you should note the deviation to consider it in future readings. For example, if it reads 73%, you know to add 2% to future humidity level readings. If it has manual recalibration instructions, simply follow them. A careful cleaning of the sensor might also be necessary.

Tips for effective humidity control

In any case, to properly manage humidity in the humidor, it is essential to use a quality humidification system:

• Sponges on trays (natural humidity)
• Liquid solution packs (such as Bóveda packs) that self-regulate.
• Advanced precision electronic humidifiers, such as the mini-HR and HR6 systems in our Wacota humidors.

Additionally, it is advisable to regularly check humidity levels and adjust the humidifier as needed. It is also useful to inspect cigars from time to time to ensure they are neither too dry nor too moist, as both extremes affect their quality.

Furthermore, ensure the hygrometer is placed in a position where it can accurately measure the humidity inside the humidor. It is typically placed on the inside lid of the humidor or near the cigars. Opening the humidor regularly, at least once a week, is also recommended to allow fresh air to circulate and prevent excess humidity.

Proper humidity control preserves the freshness, flavor, and quality of cigars, extending their shelf life. By regularly monitoring and maintaining the humidor’s humidity levels within the correct thresholds, your cigars will always be in their best condition.