The Art of Cigar Storage: Expert Tips to Preserve Flavour

For true cigar aficionados, storing cigars is not merely a technicality, it's a continuation of the ritual. Proper storage preserves flavour, aroma, texture, and the intricate craftsmanship of every cigar. Whether you’ve just discovered the pleasure of smoking or are safeguarding a personal collection, mastering cigar storage ensures your experience remains exceptional.

Here are expert storage tips to help you preserve flavour, extend longevity, and honour every leaf.

1. Invest in a Quality Humidor

A humidor is the foundation of proper cigar care. Beyond the aesthetic, it creates a stable microclimate for your cigars to rest and mature.

Look for:

• Spanish cedar lining

• Reliable seal and closure

• Built-in hygrometer (ideally digital)

If you’re just starting, a desktop humidor that fits 25–50 cigars is a practical first step.

2. Maintain Humidity Between 65–70%

Cigars are hygroscopic — they absorb and release moisture depending on their environment. Humidity too low? Your cigar dries out and burns too fast. Too high? Mould risk and tight draws await.

Storage sweet spot:
Relative Humidity (RH): 65–70%
Pair your humidor with Boveda packs, humidity beads, or an electronic humidifier for consistent regulation.

3. Watch the Temperature

Temperature often goes overlooked, but it’s critical for flavour preservation and pest prevention.

Target range:
18–21°C (65–70°F)

Excess heat (especially above 24°C) increases the risk of tobacco beetles, while colder environments may inhibit natural aging.

4. Use Only Distilled Water or Propylene Glycol

Never use tap water in your humidifier. Minerals and impurities can damage cigars and contaminate your humidor.

Approved options:

• Distilled water (basic, effective)

• 50/50 Propylene Glycol solution (buffers RH for longer periods)

5. Rotate Your Cigars Every 4-6 Weeks

Even in well-humidified environments, air circulation isn’t perfectly even. To ensure balanced ageing and moisture distribution:

• Rotate cigars from top shelves to bottom

• Gently turn bundles 180 degrees

• Use gloves or wash hands to prevent contaminating the wrappers

6. Don’t Overcrowd Your Humidor

Cigars need space to breathe, this isn’t about quantity, it’s about quality.

Aim for 70-80% capacity:
Allow air to flow freely around every cigar. Overpacking restricts humidity and can lead to flavour imbalances.

7. Clean Your Humidor Annually

Wipe the interior with a dry, lint-free cloth. Look for mold, beetle activity, or any buildup. Re-season before restocking.

Expert Tip: Add a Spanish cedar divider to segment blends or regions; This prevents flavour cross-contamination.

Final Thought

Flavour is a legacy worth preserving. Proper cigar storage doesn’t demand complexity, it requires intention. By mastering the fundamentals of humidor care, humidity balance, and environmental control, you honour the ritual, elevate your experience, and extend the life of every cigar in your collection.

Preserve the flavour. Master the ritual.

→ Explore our collection of expertly designed humidors and storage accessories here.