Frequently Asked Questions for Humidors

Q9: What are the most important things to keep in mind when rehumidifying dry cigars?


A: Be patient. Let the cigars absorb moisture gradually.

If dry cigars are exposed to too much humidity too soon, they will expand and the wrapper will crack. Rehumidification should be a gradual process. First, place the cigars in a dry humidor, one without a humidification device, for several days. Then, put the humidification device back in the humidor and, over the course of a two-week period, slowly add water until it's fully charged. Once this has been completed, let your cigars sit until they have regained their moisture and feel supple to the touch. The process should take about three weeks, on average. Remember, however, that it's largely dependent on the condition of the cigars. Bone-dry smokes can take up to a month or more. And cigars that have been dry for several years or more may never absorb enough moisture to become smokable.

This is a reprint of the article in the "Tip of the Week" section of the website
of Cigar Aficionado ( www.cigaraficionado.com ) in the week of October 05, 1998.