Have you ever received a beautifully packaged cigar as a gift, but you're not quite ready to light it up just yet? You might have wondered how long cigars can last in their plastic wrappers and if you should remove them to store the cigars properly. As a cigar lover, it's essential to be informed about preserving your cigars' freshness and taste. We've got you covered with the ins and outs of storing cigars in plastic wrappers in this engaging guide.
How Long Do Cigars Last In Plastic Wrapper Table of Contents
Importance of Proper Cigar Storage
Importance of Proper Cigar Storage
Storing your cigars in optimal conditions is crucial for preserving their flavors, aromas, and overall quality. When cigars are exposed to high or low levels of humidity, their taste can change significantly, affecting your smoking experience. Moreover, improper storage can also lead to molding or drying out of cigars.
Humidity Control
The ideal humidity level for cigar storage is between 65% and 72%. Humidity ensures that the cigar wrapper remains supple and its oils are preserved. Too low humidity can cause the wrapper to crack, while excessive humidity can cause mold growth.
Temperature Control
The ideal temperature for cigar storage is between 68°F and 70°F. This temperature range helps maintain the cigar's freshness and prevents the growth of tobacco beetles that could potentially ruin your cigars.
Effect of Plastic Wrappers on Cigar Storage
Cigars often come wrapped in a thin plastic film called cellophane, which is designed to protect them from damage during transportation. While cellophane is breathable, allowing for some airflow and humidity exchange, it can still affect the overall storage environment for your cigars.
Pros of Keeping Cigars in Plastic Wrappers
- Protection from damage: The cellophane wrapper helps protect the delicate cigar wrapper from scratches and scuffs.
- Prevents cross-flavoring: If you store various cigar types in a humidor, the cellophane can help prevent the flavors from melding, keeping the taste of each cigar distinct and original.
- Slow moisture exchange: While not completely airtight, the cellophane slows down the exchange of moisture between the cigar and the environment, helping preserve the cigar's freshness over time.
Cons of Keeping Cigars in Plastic Wrappers
- Slow seasoning: If you're seasoning new cigars to add them to your humidor, the cellophane wrap can slow down the process by limiting the cigar's contact with the humidified air within the humidor.
- Reduced aroma: The cellophane can somewhat muffle the aroma of the cigars, making it less enjoyable to open your humidor and take in the fragrant scent of your collection.
How Long Do Cigars Last in Plastic Wrappers
Cigars can last several months or even years in their plastic wrappers if stored in appropriate conditions. However, storing them in a humidor without the cellophane allows for more direct contact with the humidified air, ensuring a more consistent and optimal storage environment.
How Long Do Cigars Last In Plastic Wrapper Example:
Imagine you received a box of six premium cigars individually wrapped in cellophane. You already have a humidor with 20 cigars from various brands, and you don't have immediate plans to smoke these new cigars anytime soon. In this scenario, it would be beneficial to keep the new cigars in their cellophane wrappers to prevent cross-flavoring and maintain their distinct taste. As long as your humidor maintains proper humidity and temperature levels, these cigars can likely be stored in their cellophane for several months or a few years without compromising their quality or freshness.
Now that you're informed about how long cigars can last in their plastic wrappers, you can confidently store your precious cigars without sacrificing their taste and overall quality. Remember, proper storage and humidity are essential factors in preserving cigar freshness, whether wrapped in cellophane or not. Don't forget to share this informative guide with fellow cigar enthusiasts and explore more guides on Swinger Cigars to enhance your luxurious cigar-smoking lifestyle.