What Is Humidor?

A cigar humidors is a box designed to store and age cigars within the optimal humidity range of 68 % to 72% at room temperature. A humidor must contain a humidification system or device to add (or remove) moisture from its interior space to maintain the desired level of humidity. A humidor usually contains a hygrometer to measure the humidity level inside the box. Most personal humidors are made of wood, with the inside usually constructed with Spanish cedar.
In addition to its main purpose of storing, preserving and aging cigars for a number of years, a humidor can also be an attractive piece of furniture, and even a family heirloom. For most cigar connoisseurs, a humidor is a small investment that will protect a much larger investment of valuable cigars for many years.
A cigar humidor can be built from several different kinds of woods, but the most popular choice is Spanish cedar. This wood retains moisture well, adds to the flavor of the cigars, and will keep out pests that may infest the cigars, rendering them unsmokable. When a cigar humidor is initially purchased, it will need to be properly seasoned before cigars can be stored in it, and the hygrometer, the device used to measure humidity, should be calibrated.