Storing Cigars EMS

Short Guide to Storing Cigars


Short Guide to Storing Cigars
Proper cigar storage ensures optimal flavor and longevity. Follow these steps to keep your cigars in prime condition:
  1. Use a Humidor
    • Store cigars in a humidor to maintain consistent humidity and temperature.
    • Ideal conditions: 68-72% relative humidity (RH) and 65-70°F (18-21°C).
    • Choose a humidor with a tight seal, preferably lined with Spanish cedar to enhance flavor and regulate moisture.
    • Amazon sells reasonable sized good quality humidors from £30.
  2. Humidification Device
    • Use a humidification device (e.g., gel jars, Boveda packs, or electronic humidifiers) to maintain stable RH.
    • Boveda packs are low-maintenance and precise (choose 69% for most cigars).
    • When ordering from Blackpool Bourbon Cigar and Whiskey bar all cigars are shipped with an English Market Selection approved gel storage pack that will keep your cigars fresh for months.
    • Refill devices with distilled water or propylene glycol solution to prevent mold.
  3. Monitor Conditions
    • Use a digital hygrometer to track humidity and temperature inside the humidor. These can be purchased cheaply with Amazon.
    • Calibrate the hygrometer annually for accuracy (salt test method).
  4. Organize and Rotate
    • Avoid overpacking the humidor to ensure air circulation.
    • Rotate cigars every 1-2 months to prevent uneven humidity exposure.
    • Store different cigar types separately to avoid flavor mixing (use dividers or cellophane wrappers).
  5. Avoid Extremes
    • Keep the humidor away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or air conditioners.
    • Low humidity (<60%) dries cigars, causing harsh flavors; high humidity (>75%) risks mold and wrapper damage.
  6. Long-Term Storage
    • For aging (6+ months), maintain stable conditions and check periodically.
    • Store cigars in their original boxes or with cellophane on to protect wrappers.
    • Avoid frequent opening of the humidor to minimize humidity fluctuations.
  7. Maintenance
    • Season a new humidor before use (wipe with distilled water, add humidification, wait 24-48 hours).
    • Clean the humidor every 6-12 months with a dry cloth; avoid chemicals.
    • Replace humidification solutions or packs as needed (every 2-6 months for Boveda).
Tips:
  • If cigars feel too dry, slowly rehumidify over weeks to avoid wrapper cracking.
  • If mold appears (white/green fuzz, not natural plume), remove affected cigars, clean the humidor, and check humidity levels.
  • For travel, use a sealed travel humidor or airtight container with a Boveda pack. The EMS bags supplied from Blackpool Bourbon are also great for travel.
By maintaining these conditions, your cigars will stay fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy for months or even years.
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