If you're a cigar smoker, you know that properly storing your cigars is essential to maintaining their flavor and quality. One of the most important aspects of cigar storage is the humidor - a specially designed box that regulates temperature and humidity. But before you start filling your humidor with your favorite cigars, it's important to season it properly. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to season a humidor.
Step 1: Clean the humidor Before seasoning your humidor, make sure it's clean. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the inside of the box, removing any dust or debris. Make sure to avoid using any cleaning products, as they can leave behind residues that could affect the flavor of your cigars.
Step 2: Prepare the humidification device Fill your humidification device with distilled water. Avoid using tap water, as it can contain minerals that could damage your humidor. You can also use a solution of distilled water and propylene glycol, which helps regulate humidity levels.
Step 3: Place the humidification device in the humidor Place the humidification device inside the humidor, making sure it's positioned away from the cigars. You can also add a small dish or container of distilled water to the humidor to help increase humidity levels.
Step 4: Close the humidor and wait Close the lid of the humidor and wait at least 24 hours before checking humidity levels. During this time, the humidor will absorb moisture from the humidification device and begin to regulate humidity levels. It's important to wait at least 24 hours before adding cigars to the humidor to ensure that the humidity levels are stable.
Step 5: Check humidity levels After 24 hours, check the humidity levels inside the humidor using a hygrometer. The ideal humidity range for storing cigars is between 65% and 72%. If the humidity levels are too low, add more distilled water to the humidification device. If they're too high, remove the humidification device or add some dry rice to the humidor to help absorb excess moisture.
Step 6: Repeat the process It's important to season your humidor every time you purchase a new one or if it's been unused for an extended period of time. By repeating this process, you'll ensure that your humidor is properly seasoned and ready to store your cigars.