A humidor will help maintain your cigars for a long time while keeping the flavour intact. But don’t just put your cigars in the humidor without seasoning it first. The humidor is not impervious even though it’s the best way to take care of your cigars.
The cedar inside the humidor is part of the humidification system. If the humidor is not seasoned, the wood might actually absorb the humidity in the cigars and cause them to dry. That’s actually the opposite reaction that you’d expect the humidor to have. So, you will have to season your humidor to ensure that all your cigars remain intact.
How to season a humidor
Before you begin the seasoning process of your humidor, make sure you read the instructions from the manual that came with your new humidor. More importantly, make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s manual so that you don’t render the warranty null and void. But if there are no specific instructions, then follow the steps below.
Use Distilled water
When it comes to seasoning your device, you will have to use distilled water, unscented clean sponge and a cloth. The last and very important ingredient to this process is patience-at least for the next few days. Don’t go for the tap water instead of distilled water.
Next start by dampening the sponge with distilled water or the cloth. Then use it to wipe the cedar inside the humidor. That also includes cleaning the trays and the lid. Keep in mind, you don’t want to damage the humidor. Therefore, do not saturate the interior with water or choose to pour water directly into the humidor.
Place the sponge inside
After the cleaning is complete, place the wet sponge on a plastic bag and then place both of them in the humidor. But remember you should not oversaturate the sponge with water and also do not let the sponge touch the wood on the sides.
Fill up the humidification device
According to your manual, fill up the humidification device with either distilled water or humidifying solution. Check whether the water dripped on the sides and get rid of it. This will cause an oversaturation in the humidor. Then place the humidification device inside the humidor.
Now, wait
This is the hard part. You will have to wait for twenty-four hours then repeat the entire process the next day. This time, do not place the sponge inside the humidor. The next thing is to wait for another twenty-four hours.
Inspect the device for any dampness
Before placing your pricey cigars in the humidor, check for any dampness on the cedar. In case the cedar is still damp, you will have to wait for another 24 hours. Also, during the seasoning process, you will have to ignore the readings on the hygrometer if you have any. But after the seasoning is complete and the humidity is still lower than 72%, then you need to repeat the process again.
You will also have to test whether the hygrometer is still effective and recharge your humidification system.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does it mean to season a humidor?
- Seasoning a humidor refers to the process of preparing the interior of the humidor to maintain the ideal humidity levels for storing cigars. This typically involves adding moisture to the wood so that it can effectively regulate humidity once the humidor is in use.
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How do I properly season my humidor?
- To season your humidor, wipe the interior walls with a clean sponge or cloth dampened with distilled water. Next, place a small bowl of distilled water inside the humidor and let it sit for 24-48 hours. Alternatively, you can use a humidification device filled with distilled water. Monitor the humidity level until it stabilizes around 65-70%.
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How often should I check and refill the humidification system?
- It's important to check the humidification system at least once a week, especially in dry climates. Refill the humidification device with distilled water or the appropriate solution as needed to maintain the desired humidity levels.
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What type of water should I use in my humidor?
- Always use distilled water or a propylene glycol solution specifically designed for humidors. Regular tap water can introduce minerals and impurities that may damage the cigars or the humidor.
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How should I clean my humidor?
- To clean your humidor, empty it of all cigars and accessories. Wipe the interior with a clean, damp cloth or sponge using distilled water. Avoid using chemical cleaners, as they can leave residues that affect the flavor of your cigars. Allow the humidor to dry completely before adding cigars back in.
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How can I prevent mold in my humidor?
- To prevent mold, maintain proper humidity levels (ideally between 65% and 70%) and ensure good airflow inside the humidor. Regularly check your cigars for signs of mold, and if you notice any, remove the affected cigars immediately. Keeping the humidor clean and well-maintained also helps reduce the risk of mold growth.