Cigars are handmade products using natural tobacco leaves. This makes them extremely sensitive to humidity. Improper storage doesn’t just reduce quality—it permanently ruins cigars.
Understanding why humidity matters is the foundation of proper cigar care.
The Science Behind Cigar Humidity
Cigars contain oils, resins, and moisture that must remain balanced. Relative humidity controls:
- Burn rate
- Flavor development
- Draw resistance
- Long-term aging
Too much or too little humidity disrupts this balance.
What Happens When Cigars Are Too Dry
Below 60% RH, cigars begin to dry out.
Consequences of Low Humidity
- Harsh, bitter flavors
- Cracked wrappers
- Uneven burn
- Faster combustion
- Loss of essential oils
Once a cigar dries excessively, full flavor recovery is impossible, even if rehydrated.
What Happens When Cigars Are Too Humid
Above 72% RH, cigars absorb excess moisture.
Consequences of High Humidity
- Tight draw
- Difficulty staying lit
- Muted or sour flavors
- Mold growth
- Swollen wrappers
Excess humidity can destroy an entire humidor if mold spreads.
Mold vs Plume: A Critical Difference
Many cigar smokers confuse plume (bloom) with mold.
- Plume: Fine white powder caused by natural oil crystallization (harmless)
- Mold: Fuzzy, green/blue/black growth (dangerous)
Improper humidity is the main cause of mold formation.
Ideal Humidity for Proper Cigar Storage
Most cigar experts agree on these ranges:
- Short-term storage: 65%–70% RH
- Long-term aging: 62%–65% RH
- Warm climates: Slightly lower humidity recommended
Consistency matters more than chasing an exact number.
How to Maintain Proper Humidity
- Use a sealed humidor
- Choose reliable humidification devices
- Monitor with a calibrated hygrometer
- Avoid frequent lid opening
- Keep away from heat and sunlight
Humidity control is a system, not a single component.
Why Cheap Storage Solutions Fail
Plastic bags, kitchen containers, or unsealed boxes may work short-term, but they:
- Leak moisture
- Create humidity swings
- Offer no airflow regulation
A proper humidor is an investment in cigar quality.
Final Thoughts
Cigars are not disposable products. They are crafted, aged, and meant to be enjoyed at their peak.
Improper humidity doesn’t just affect taste—it destroys the cigar’s structure and character.
If you care about your cigars, you must care about humidity.