How to Store Cigars Properly — The Complete Humidor Guide

A premium cigar is only as good as how it's been stored. Improper storage is the fastest way to ruin an expensive cigar — drying it out, cracking the wrapper, or introducing mould. At Havana Castle Cigars, proper storage is something we take seriously at every one of our 33 Ontario locations. Here's everything you need to know.

Why Proper Cigar Storage Matters

Cigars are made from natural, living tobacco leaves. They are hygroscopic — meaning they absorb and release moisture from the air around them. Too dry, and the wrapper cracks, the filler burns too fast, and the flavour becomes harsh and bitter. Too humid, and mould develops, the draw becomes plugged, and the cigar becomes unsmokable. The ideal environment is 65–70% relative humidity at 18–21°C (65–70°F). This is exactly what a well-calibrated humidor provides.

Choosing the Right Humidor

For serious collectors: the Lubinski YJA-60035 Luxury 250-Count Humidor (C$823) is our flagship piece. It features a Spanish cedar interior — the gold standard for humidor lining — along with a glass-top lid, built-in analogue hygrometer, adjustable dividers, and a locking mechanism. Cedar naturally regulates humidity and imparts a subtle, pleasant aroma to your cigars over time. For everyday enthusiasts: the Lubinski YJA-60033 Carbon Fibre Desktop Humidor (C$102) offers digital hygrometer and thermometer readings in a sleek, modern design perfect for 20–30 cigars. For travellers: the Cedar Travel Humidor (C$258) is an all-in-one case that includes a torch lighter and double-blade cutter — everything you need, perfectly protected.

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How to Season a New Humidor

Before placing any cigars in a new humidor, you must season it. New cedar is dry and will absorb moisture from your cigars instead of protecting them. To season: wipe the interior cedar surfaces with a clean cloth lightly dampened with distilled water — never tap water. Place a small dish of distilled water inside and close the lid. Leave it for 24–48 hours. Check your hygrometer: once it reads a stable 65–70% RH, your humidor is ready. Then fill your humidification device with propylene glycol solution or distilled water and place your cigars inside.

Maintaining Your Humidor Long-Term

Check your hygrometer weekly. Refill your humidification device every 2–4 weeks with distilled water or propylene glycol solution. Rotate your cigars every few months so they age evenly. Keep your humidor away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and air conditioning. Never store flavoured cigars with unflavoured ones — the aromas transfer. If you notice mould on a cigar, remove it immediately, wipe the affected cedar with isopropyl alcohol, and allow it to dry before re-seasoning.

Shop Humidors Across Ontario

Havana Castle carries a full range of humidors at our 33 locations across Ontario — from compact travel cases to luxury 250-count cabinets. Our staff can help you choose the right humidor for your collection size, budget, and lifestyle. Visit havanacastlecigars.com/category/all-products to browse online, or find your nearest store at havanacastlecigars.com/stores.