How to season a humidor

If you're a cigar aficionado, you know that a humidor is an essential tool for keeping your cigars in top condition. However, simply buying a humidor is not enough to ensure that your cigars stay fresh and flavorful. Properly seasoning a humidor is a crucial step in maintaining the optimal environment for cigar storage. In this article, we'll answer some common questions about how to season a humidor.

How long does it take to season a humidor?

The process of seasoning a humidor typically takes around two weeks. This allows the wood to absorb moisture and stabilize the humidity levels. It's important not to rush the process, as this could result in uneven humidity levels, which can damage your cigars.

How do you season a humidor?

To season a humidor, you'll need distilled water or a propylene glycol solution, a hygrometer, and a humidification unit. The first step is to calibrate your hygrometer to ensure accuracy. Next, fill the humidification unit with distilled water or propylene glycol solution and place it in the humidor. Close the lid and let the unit sit for two to three days to allow the moisture to distribute evenly. After this time, check the humidity levels with a hygrometer. If the levels are below 70%, add more distilled water or solution and repeat the process until the humidity stabilizes at 70%.

How often should you season a humidor?

You should only need to season your humidor once, as long as you maintain proper humidity levels. However, if you notice your cigars drying out or the humidity dropping below 65%, it's time to re-season your humidor.

How do you tell if a humidor is seasoned?

A seasoned humidor will have stable humidity levels of around 70%. You can check this with a hygrometer. If the humidity levels fluctuate, it may be a sign that the humidor needs to be re-seasoned.

Can you put cigars in a humidor while seasoning?

No, you should not put cigars in a humidor while seasoning. The process of seasoning can cause fluctuations in humidity levels, which can damage your cigars. It's best to wait until the humidor has been properly seasoned before adding your cigars.

In conclusion, properly seasoning a humidor is crucial for maintaining the optimal environment for cigar storage. It may take a couple of weeks, but the end result will be worth it. Remember to use distilled water or propylene glycol solution, a hygrometer, and a humidification unit, and check the humidity levels regularly to ensure your cigars stay fresh and flavorful.