Different Ways to Store Cigars
Every cigar smoker builds a distinct collection, and each has their own method for storing and preserving cigars. This can mean typical wooden humidors, but also plastic containers such as cigar cases or Tupperware.
Once again, the way you store and preserve your cigars is a matter of personal preference, so find the one you like best.
The best way to store and preserve cigars is to follow a few simple rules. Start by choosing the place where you will keep them. At HABANO & ALMA, we prefer classic wooden humidors, because the Spanish cedar in high-end humidors gives cigars character. That said, we also own an acrylic humidor, and we sometimes use tobacco humidification bags designed for cigar storage. Each style has its advantages and disadvantages.
Wooden cigar humidors
Wooden humidors are the ideal item for cigar storage. The interior of a high-end wooden humidor is made of white Spanish cedar, which gives your cigars the character of the wood. This technology has been used for many years in the enormous aging humidors of several cigar companies. But a wooden cigar humidor has one drawback: you will need to find one with a well-fitting lid, practically airtight, to prevent any moisture from escaping. Most high-end humidors are tested before being shipped, but you should still check.
Many people still use the old bill test, which consists of partially opening the lid and pulling out a dollar bill to test the seal. The bill will not move if the seal is perfect. Remember to always check the seal, because the wood can warp or dry out and change the way the lid is sealed.
When you buy and use a wooden humidor, you also need to think about seasoning it. If you use a damp sponge to humidify your wooden cigar humidor, it may warp and crack. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or look for equipment that will help you season your new humidor. Seasoning is crucial because it brings the cigar humidor to the proper humidity level.
Non-wood humidors
The price alone tells you these are not premium products. Non-wood humidors are made from composite wood rather than solid wood. You still get an excellent product, but you’ll need to try quite a few before you find one that seals properly. This type of cigar humidor can be ideal for displaying cigars to guests, since it is often opened and closed. Also be aware that these humidors tend to warp and swell.
Plastic or acrylic boxes
These humidors are designed to keep Spanish cedar away from the cigars, allowing them to age naturally. Many of the people we know use plastic boxes as aging humidors, and it works well; just make sure you choose a food-grade one.
Airtight storage bags
Again, storage bags can be used if they are suitable for cigars and airtight. Some of them come with a humidification device, which you can get from your tobacconist. Many people use these bags because they are compact and can hold a large number of cigars.
Travel cigar cases
They are well suited to the purpose for which they are intended, but not for long-term storage. Many people use large plastic travel cases, but they let air in over time, even when they are tightly closed. However, for travel, plastic cigar cases are the best option. They are sturdy, do not crush the cigars, often contain foam for better protection, and stay tightly sealed for two to three weeks.
As we mentioned earlier, the way you store and preserve your cigars is very personal. At HABANO & ALMA, we have tried everything. Over time, we have developed preferences, learned which type of humidifier is suitable, what relative humidity is needed, and who we are when it comes to cigars. If you have the time and the opportunity, we suggest that you study as many ways of caring for and storing cigars as possible in order to discover what you prefer.
At HABANO & ALMA, we offer wooden humidors, acrylic humidors, travel cases, and even tobacco humidifier bags… Find all of this in our accessories.