Proper storage of cigars is essential. If you do not store them properly, you can face issues like mold growth, infestation by beetles or worms, or problems smoking like uneven puff, wrinkled wrappers, or hot/fast smokes. It is essential that you store them carefully for best results. The ideal storage condition is 70% humidity and 69 degrees Fahrenheit.

The best way to store cigars is with humidors. The purpose of a humidor is to recreate the mild, humid climate of the Caribbean, where the cigars are made. Humidors are the best, so investing in one is probably the best choice. Choose one that is large enough to hold the quantity of cigars you want to keep that includes a hygrometer and humidifier, but you can also purchase these separately if you need to. 

Humidors should:

• Keep the humidity level steady, so check every two weeks.
• Once a month add distilled water to the humidifier. Other water sources can clog the humidifier pores.
• Store the humidor in a cool, dry place (avoid sunlight) to prevent mold growth.
• If you notice your cigars having holes in them, they could be infested by beetles or worms so destroy them immediately.
• To check to see if the hygrometer is reading correctly, use the salt method to test calibration. Go to this link for details: https://www.wikihow.com/Test-a-Hygrometer
• Do not store cigars in the refrigerator because it will suck out the moisture.
• Freezing cigars is an extreme measure to be used only in case of bug infestations.

A humidor can also be used to age cigars. While aging, cigars of the same brand should be kept together, without the cellophane, in a cedar-lined humidor.The benefit of this is to draw out any excess moisture and allow the cigars to “marry.” Marriage is when the cigars absorb each other’s oils and create one unique flavor. The cedar will also add to the flavor of the cigars. About once a week, the humidor should be opened for a few hours to let the air hit the cigars or they will acquire a musty taste. Another popular lining for humidors is unstained mahogany. This is a fine lining if you do not want to age cigars or do not want the flavor of cedar to permeate your cigars. Mahogany-lined humidors do not have to be checked as often as cedar-lined ones because mahogany does not absorb as much moisture as cedar.

The least expensive way of keeping cigars fresh is as follows:

• Put the cigars into a plastic food storage bag or container. For every 25 cigars stored, put a damp sponge or paper towel in the bag or container. Store the bag on a shelf or in a closet. A plastic food storage bag or a Tupperware-type container is a sealed environment that holds humidity. Use distilled water when filling any humidifying device.

For more information about cigar storage, contact Tobacco Haven at tobaccohavennh.com