Why do I need a Cigar Humidor?Smoking cigars is almost an obsession. Many cigar smokers have their own favorite rituals that they follow with every cigar, as well as having preferred methods for storing their cigars. If you're not a cigar smoker, you may wonder why a cigar enthusiast would need a humidor. Basically, humidors are used to store and protect cigars. The idea is that the humidor helps to keep the cigars at their peak flavor. The humidor is used to keep the cigars at a constant temperature. This varies, but is generally somewhere in the range between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It's also important to keep the humidity constant, usually somewhere around 70-72% humidity. There's a great deal of debate about the ideal temperature for storing cigars. Many cigar aficionados refuse to accept even the slightest fluctuation in temperature, insisting that it's essential to store cigars at 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Others will accept some fluctuation, but still believe that the lower the temperature, the more the cigar will age, with a subsequent reduction in flavor. Using a humidor is essential to preserve the integrity, flavor and color of your favorite cigars. If you're keen to maintain the quality of your cigars, then what should you look for when purchasing a cigar humidor? The most important feature is that the humidor must close completely. The lid has to fit securely so that there is no possibility of temperature or humidity fluctuation. A tight fitting lid also helps to keep any other outside elements from affecting the cigars, and prevents the exchange of moisture. The inside of the humidor needs to have smooth seams, so there are no snags to catch unwary cigars or fingers. It's also helpful if the cigar humidor contains fittings for storing the cigars. Cigar humidors can be lined with many materials, but the preference is for cedar, and best of all, Spanish cedar. Spanish cedar is perfect for a cigar humidor's interior. Last, but most importantly, check the size of your favorite cigar brand before purchasing a cigar humidor. Make sure your cigars will fit! With all the varieties in size of both cigars and humidors, this is a vital step. Once you have your cigar humidor, start using it immediately, to ensure your cigars enjoy a long life with maximum flavor and minimum aging. |
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