Share This Post
Some expect they cannot correctly experience a cigar until they have set up a humidor. While this dedicated temperature-controlled box is often the golden general for cigar storage, not everyone has the space, the budget, or the need for one on-site.
Fortunately, innovative, revolutionary strategies exist to keep cigars sparkling and flavorful without a humidor. Whether you’re a casual smoker or thoroughly exploring the cigar waters of the world, this guide takes a deep dive into how to buy cigars without a humidor—and keep them nice and intact.
We outline everything you want to understand, backed by powerful information and practical advice. You’ll leave here as a seasoned cigar preserver, even using standard family tools.
How to Store Cigars Without a Humidor?
Cigars are quite sensitive to their surroundings, as they are made entirely of rolled tobacco leaves, which can dry out or absorb excessive amounts of moisture if stored improperly. Ideal storage conditions for cigars mimic those of their tropical origins, mainly:
- Temperature: Around 70°F (21°C)
- Humidity: Around 65-72% relative humidity (RH)
When too dry, cigars become brittle and lose essential oils, resulting in a harsh, unpleasant smoke. On the other hand, over-moistened cigars can be too moist, which affects pleasant burning and promotes mold formation. The goal is balance—and luckily, you could create this environment without a humidor.
Best Way to Store Cigars Without a Humidor
What is the best way to store a cigar without a humidor? Here are some practical tips and tricks:
1. Use a Ziploc Bag and a Moisture Source
A Ziploc bag with a simple moisture source can be a makeshift humidor. While not ideal for long-term storage, this approach works well every week.
Here’s how to do it efficiently:
- Place your cigars in a super Ziploc bag. Make sure they can be loosely packed so they don’t get crushed.
- Add Boveda moisture p.C. (67-72% RH is correct) to maintain high humidity levels. These wrappers are specially designed for humidity control and are safe for cigars.
- Seal the bag and ensure it is airtight. Store it in a cool area away from direct sunlight.
How Long Will Cigars Last in a Ziploc Bag?
With regular humidity packs, cigars can stay fresh in a Ziploc bag for 1-3 weeks. Beyond that, you may notice flavor deterioration.
2. Tupperware Humidor (a.k.a. Tupperdor)
Plastic containers like Tupperware can create an affordable, makeshift humidor. They are easy to find, making them ideal for temporary cigar storage.
Here’s how to create your own “Tupperdor”:
- Choose the Right Container: Select a Tupperware or food-grade plastic container with an airtight seal.
- Line with a Cedar Sheet: If possible, line the bottom with a thin sheet of Spanish cedar (often found in cigar boxes). Cedar enhances flavor and regulates humidity.
- Add Humidification Devices: Place a Boveda pack, damp sponge, or small dish of distilled water inside the container to maintain humidity. Avoid tap water, as it can promote mold.
- Store Properly: Keep the container out of direct sunlight and maintain a steady room temperature.
Can I Store Cigars in Tupperware?
Yes! Many cigar enthusiasts use a Tupperware humidor as an affordable, effective solution for storing cigars.
3. Glass Jars or Mason Jars
A glass jar with a tight seal offers another affordable option for storing cigars. This method is best for small quantities and short durations.
- Place your cigars inside the jar, ensuring they don’t touch the walls too tightly.
- Add a small humidifier or Boveda pack to regulate humidity.
- Check regularly to ensure moisture levels remain stable.
4. Temporary Solutions for Emergencies
Simple gadgets can be a last resort if you’re short on time or materials. For example, wrap cigars in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in a dark, cool place. While this does not offer ideal conditions, it is superior to exposing cigars outside.
How to Keep Cigars Fresh Without a Humidor?
Below is a short checklist of simple strategies to keep your cigars sparkling without a humidor using items you most likely already own.
- Maintain stable humidity: Use items such as Boveda packs or wet sponges to adjust humidity.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Excessive heat can dry out cigars quickly. Always shop in a cool, dark environment.
- Seal containers tightly: An airtight seal locks moisture in and saves drying time.
- Inspect cigars regularly: Check them daily for signs and symptoms of mold or drying out.
- Prefer distilled water: Avoid tap water because impurities can damage cigars or humidifiers.
Do I Need a Humidor for Cigars?
While the strategies above can work wonders in the short term, there’s no denying that humidors are the best solution for cigar storage. But do you need one? That entirely depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and the size of your cigar collection.
Reasons You Need a Humidor
Investing in a humidor is a no-brainer for serious cigar enthusiasts or collectors. Here’s why you should consider it:
- Long-term preservation of high-quality cigars: The humidor ensures that cigars age gracefully while retaining their oils, herbal sugars, and complex profiles. Whether you like Arturo Fuente or Cohiba, a humidor will keep your cigars looking their best for months or years.
- Consistent flavor and moisture maintenance: Smoking a poorly stored cigar is like drinking flat soda – an insult to the product. Humidors offer robust humidity and temperature so that every smoke is constant, whether it’s your first or 50th cigar in the sector.
- Protection from environmental extremes: Fluctuating ranges of temperature and humidity – caused by seasonal changes or unstable living conditions – can wreak havoc on cigars. The humidor acts as a protective buffer to protect your cigars from rapid modifications in their surroundings.
Reasons You Might Not Need a Humidor
Conversely, humidors aren’t always the default choice, especially for casual smokers or beginners. Here’s why you might manage fine without one:
- You Smoke Occasionally and Don’t Have a Large Collection: If you sometimes revel in cigars and typically don’t store more significant than 5-10 at a time, household solutions like mason jars, Ziploc baggage, or temporary Tupperware solutions are often enough. They’re cost-effective, simple, and exceedingly effective for short-term use.
- Investing in a humidor is unnecessary if you smoke through cigars within one or two weeks of purchasing them. Many short-term options (like a Tupperdor or humidity pouch) work for temporary storage, ensuring cigars stay fresh long enough to smoke through your stash.
For novice cigar enthusiasts, it’s okay to experiment with these basic storage strategies as you explore your preferences and collection size. However, transitioning to options like the best portable humidor or cedar-lined humidors will make all the difference as your collection grows.
How Long Do Cigars Last Without a Humidor?
The answer depends on storage conditions. Here’s a rough timeline based on common storage methods:
Storage Method | Estimated Freshness Duration |
---|---|
Stored in the open-air | 2-3 days (drying begins almost immediately) |
Ziploc bag without humidifier | About 3-5 days |
Ziploc bag + Boveda pack | 1-3 weeks |
Tupperware with a humidity pack |
1-2 months
|
If properly sealed and stored at consistent humidity, cigars can survive a few weeks without permanent damage. However, the key to longevity is always controlled humidity and temperature.
FAQs on How to Store Cigars Without a Humidor
Is It Okay to Store Cigars in the Refrigerator?
While it might seem logical, the fridge is cool, so do not store cigars in your refrigerator. Refrigerators are too cold (usually below 40°F) and very dry, with an RH of 30-40%, making them unsuitable for cigars. This environment dries cigars out completely and ruins their flavor.
Can I store cigars in the freezer?
No, storing cigars in the freezer isn’t always an excellent idea. Freezing cigars can dry them out and damage their touchy shape, especially the wrapper. The low humidity and freezing temperatures will strip the cigars of essential oils, contributing to their taste and aroma. Always have the intention of maintaining an environment with proper humidity and temperature.
How do I know if my cigars are too dry?
Dry cigars are regularly brittle, and their wrappers may crack when handled. When you lightly squeeze a cigar, it needs a slight spring to its texture but not crumble. Smoking a dry cigar typically brings a harsh, unsightly flavor and a short burn. If you phrase the one’s signs and symptoms, attempt rehydrating your cigars with a humidity manipulator, p. C., or a similar technique.
Can I over-humidify cigars?
Yes, cigars can grow to be over-humidified. Cigars saved at humidity degrees above 72% might also additionally experience spongy to the touch, burn unevenly, or develop mildew. Over-humidified cigars also can flavor bitter due to immoderate moisture. Always reveal your garage environment to ensure humidity stays within the endorsed variety.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to how to store cigars without a humidor, the key is understanding your cigars’ basic needs—humidity and temperature. From Ziploc bags to Tupperware, there are plenty of creative and practical solutions to keep your sticks fresh until you’re ready to enjoy them.
Are you ready to take your cigar storage to the next level? Don’t settle for makeshift methods when you can explore premium options designed specifically for cigar enthusiasts like you. Browse our collection of innovative cigar accessories, including some of the best portable humidors and temperature-controlled solutions.
Explore expert insights and tailored solutions at Mozsly to elevate your cigar experience.
Related Post's
Featured Video
Provide an email subscription feature for users to sign up for updates.
Follow the world of watches and cigars for exclusive content!
By subscribing to our newsletter, you will be the first to receive notifications of our latest articles, popular posts and special events.