A cigar humidor is an essential piece of equipment for any cigar enthusiast, as it keeps cigars at the optimal humidity level for proper aging and enjoyment. However, before you start storing your cigars in a humidor, it's important to properly season it first. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season a cigar humidor.
Step 1: Clean the humidor. Before seasoning your humidor, it's important to clean it thoroughly. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the interior and exterior, and make sure to remove any dust or debris.
Step 2: Add a humidification device. The next step is to add a humidification device to your humidor. This can be a humidifier, a humidification gel, or a Boveda pack. The device you choose will depend on your humidor's size and personal preferences.
Step 3: Add a hygrometer. A hygrometer is a device that measures the humidity level in your humidor. It's important to add one to your humidor before seasoning it so you can properly monitor the humidity level during the seasoning process.
*Depending on the investment into your humidor, some already come with a digital hydrometer included*
Step 4: Add distilled water or a 50/50 solution of propylene glycol and distilled water to your humidification device. This will help raise your humidor's humidity level to the desired level of 70%.
Step 5: Close the humidor and wait. Allow the humidor to sit closed for at least 24-48 hours. This will allow the humidity level to stabilize and ensure that the humidor is properly hydrated.
Step 6: Check the humidity level with your hygrometer. After 48 hours, check the humidity level with your hygrometer. If it is not at 70%, repeat steps 4 and 5 until it reaches the desired level.
This could be a very daunting task that requires a lot from you, so there is an alternative option. You can purchase the humidor prep pack from Boveda, it comes with the necessary tools to properly season your humidor, and the hydrometer included can connect to your phone. So It makes it extremely easy to know when you are ready to start storing your precious stogies.
You can find that here: Humidor Seasoning Kits
Step 7: Add cigars. Once the humidity level is at 70%, you can now add your cigars to the humidor. Make sure to monitor the humidity level regularly to ensure that it stays at 70% and adjust as necessary.
Remember that a properly seasoned humidor will ensure that your cigars are stored in the best possible condition and will enhance the flavor and aroma of your cigars over time.