Few things compare to the distinction of smoking a fine cigar. Cigars are often considered a status symbol commonly used to celebrate milestone events. Whether you enjoy a cigar daily or collect cigars for special occasions, a quality humidor is beneficial. Humidors range in size from small boxes suitable for travel to walk-in humidors the size of a closet. Before investing in a new humidor for your cigars, it is important to understand the various benefits that it can provide.

Aroma and Flavor Preservation

Cigars are made with tightly rolled tobacco leaves. The condition of these leaves directly affects your smoking experience. These rolled tobacco leaves can easily dry out when they are in a low-humidity environment. The typical indoor environment in a home or office is generally too dry for cigars. After only a few days in a dry climate, the tobacco leaves will contract, and the aroma and flavor of the cigar will grow dull. You may even notice the cigar shriveling and losing its appearance as it dries out. In addition to these issues, a dried-out cigar will burn faster when you smoke it. All of these factors directly diminish your enjoyment of smoking a fine cigar.

Long-Term Storage

Cigars can lose flavor and aroma in only a few days when not in the ideal climate. While some cigars are purchased for immediate enjoyment, others may only be smoked briefly. Storing a cigar in a plastic bag will help you optimize its life, but this method is only suitable for short-term storage. In a humidor, the humidity level is maintained at a level that is ideal for the proper preservation of the tobacco leaves in cigars. Cigars that are stored in a quality humidor can remain fresh for years.

Pest Damage and Mold Prevention

While low humidity is detrimental to the quality of a cigar, high humidity also has adverse effects. When a cigar is in an environment with a high humidity level, mold and mildew can grow on and inside the cigar. If you fail to notice mold on the inner, wrapped leaves in the cigar before smoking it, you could fall ill with various unpleasant symptoms. A high humidity level causes the tobacco leaves to rot, completely ruining them. There is no way to restore a rotten cigar. In addition, tobacco beetles are drawn to cigars in a high-humidity environment. By storing your cigars in a quality humidor soon after purchasing them, you can prevent a beetle infestation.

Humidors are available in a wide range of sizes and styles, so there are options to suit all needs and budgets. However, not all humidors are of the same quality, and it might not be ideal to make your selection based on price alone. Carefully read the reviews and learn how the different components work to ensure that you make a smart buying decision.

Published by: Khy Talara