Do You Take Cigars Out of Plastic to Put in Humidor

As a cigar enthusiast, you understand the importance of proper storage to preserve the quality and flavor of your cigars. One of the most common dilemmas cigar smokers face is whether to remove cigars from their plastic wrappers before storing them in a humidor. In this article, we will delve into the world of cigar storage, exploring the reasons why you should or shouldn't take cigars out of plastic to put in a humidor. By the end of this informative guide, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision about the best way to store your precious cigars.

Why Cigars Come Wrapped in Plastic

Cigars are typically wrapped in plastic or cellophane to protect them from environmental factors that can affect their quality. The plastic wrapper serves as a barrier against moisture, temperature fluctuations, and physical damage during transportation and storage. It's essential to note that not all cigars come wrapped in plastic; some may be wrapped in paper or have a natural leaf wrapper. However, plastic-wrapped cigars are the most common type found in cigar shops and online retailers.

The Importance of Humidity Control

A humidor is a specialized container designed to maintain a consistent level of humidity, typically between 68% and 72%. This controlled environment helps to preserve the delicate balance of moisture within the cigar, ensuring it remains fresh and flavorful. Humidity control is crucial because cigars are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, which can cause them to dry out, become brittle, or develop mold.

Should You Remove Cigars from Plastic Before Storing in a Humidor?

The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. It depends on various factors, including the type of cigar, the quality of the humidor, and personal preference. Here are some points to consider:

Pros of removing cigars from plastic:

• Improved humidity circulation: Without the plastic wrapper, the cigar can absorb and release moisture more easily, ensuring a more consistent humidity level within the humidor.
• Reduced risk of mold: Plastic wrappers can trap moisture, creating an ideal environment for mold growth. Removing the wrapper reduces this risk.
• Better flavor and aroma: Some cigar enthusiasts believe that removing the plastic wrapper allows the cigar to "breathe" and develop its natural flavors and aromas more effectively.

Cons of removing cigars from plastic:

• Risk of damage: Handling cigars without their protective wrapper can increase the risk of scratches, dents, or other physical damage.
• Moisture absorption: Without the plastic wrapper, the cigar may absorb too much moisture from the humidor, leading to an over-humidified or soggy cigar.
• Increased maintenance: Removing the plastic wrapper requires more frequent monitoring and maintenance of the humidor's humidity levels to prevent over-humidification.

When to Remove Cigars from Plastic

Consider removing cigars from their plastic wrappers in the following situations:

• You have a high-quality humidor with precise humidity control and monitoring.
• You plan to store the cigars for an extended period (more than 6 months).
• You're storing premium or rare cigars that require optimal conditions.

When to Leave Cigars in Plastic

It's recommended to leave cigars in their plastic wrappers in the following situations:

• You're a beginner or new to cigar storage.
• You have a lower-quality humidor or limited humidity control.
• You plan to store the cigars for a short period (less than 6 months).
• You're storing machine-made or mass-produced cigars.

Alternative Storage Methods

While removing cigars from plastic or leaving them wrapped are the most common storage methods, there are alternative approaches to consider:

• Tubos: Store cigars in individual tubes or tubos, which provide a protective environment while allowing for humidity circulation.
• Cedar-lined storage: Use cedar-lined boxes or containers to store cigars, as cedar is a natural humidifier and can help maintain a consistent humidity level.

Whether to remove cigars from plastic or leave them wrapped is a personal decision that depends on your specific situation and preferences. By understanding the importance of humidity control, the pros and cons of removing plastic wrappers, and alternative storage methods, you can make an informed decision about the best way to store your cigars. Remember, proper storage is crucial to preserving the quality and flavor of your cigars, so take the time to experiment and find the method that works best for you.

Final Tips and Recommendations

Regardless of your chosen storage method, remember to:

• Monitor humidity levels regularly.
• Store cigars away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.
• Handle cigars gently and with care.

By following these guidelines and considering the unique needs of your cigars, you'll be well on your way to becoming a cigar storage expert. Happy smoking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of removing cigars from their plastic wrapping?

Removing cigars from their plastic wrapping is crucial to allow them to breathe and absorb the humid environment of a humidor. This helps to maintain the cigar's flavor, aroma, and overall quality.

Why can't I just leave my cigars in their plastic wrapping?

Leaving cigars in their plastic wrapping can cause them to become stale and dry out, which can affect their flavor and burn quality. The plastic wrapping can also trap moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth.

How soon should I remove my cigars from their plastic wrapping?

It's recommended to remove your cigars from their plastic wrapping as soon as possible, ideally within a few days of receiving them. This allows them to acclimate to their new environment and prevents any potential damage.

What happens if I leave my cigars in their plastic wrapping for too long?

If you leave your cigars in their plastic wrapping for too long, they can become over-humidified, leading to a range of problems including mold, mildew, and a decrease in flavor and quality.

How do I store my cigars before putting them in a humidor?

Before putting your cigars in a humidor, it's best to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can place them in a temporary storage container, such as a cardboard box or a small humidor, to maintain a stable environment.

What is the ideal humidity level for storing cigars?

The ideal humidity level for storing cigars is between 68-72% relative humidity (RH). This range allows the cigars to maintain their natural oils and flavor compounds.

How do I know if my humidor is at the right humidity level?

You can use a hygrometer to measure the humidity level in your humidor. This device will give you an accurate reading, allowing you to adjust the humidity level as needed.

What type of humidor is best for storing cigars?

The type of humidor best for storing cigars depends on your personal preferences and needs. Popular options include wooden humidors, glass-top humidors, and travel humidors. Consider factors such as size, material, and features when choosing a humidor.

How often should I season my humidor?

It's recommended to season your humidor every 1-2 months, or as needed, to maintain the optimal humidity level and prevent the wood from drying out.

What is the purpose of seasoning a humidor?

Seasoning a humidor helps to stabilize the humidity level and prevents the wood from absorbing the moisture from the cigars. This ensures that the cigars remain at the optimal humidity level and maintains their flavor and quality.

How do I season my humidor?

To season your humidor, simply place a small amount of distilled water in the humidifier and let it sit for 24-48 hours. This allows the wood to absorb the moisture and stabilize the humidity level.

Can I use tap water to season my humidor?

No, it's not recommended to use tap water to season your humidor. Tap water can contain impurities and minerals that can affect the flavor and quality of your cigars. Instead, use distilled water to ensure a pure and clean seasoning process.

How do I know if my cigars are too humid or too dry?

If your cigars are too humid, they may feel soft and squishy to the touch. If they're too dry, they may feel brittle and crack when bent. The ideal texture is firm and springy.

What happens if my cigars are too humid?

If your cigars are too humid, they can become over-humidified, leading to a range of problems including mold, mildew, and a decrease in flavor and quality.

What happens if my cigars are too dry?

If your cigars are too dry, they can become brittle and prone to cracking. This can also affect their flavor and burn quality, making them less enjoyable to smoke.

How do I handle cigars that are too humid or too dry?

If your cigars are too humid, try to slowly reduce the humidity level in your humidor over a period of days. If they're too dry, try to slowly increase the humidity level. Monitor the cigars closely to ensure they're not affected by the changes.

Can I store cigars in a humidor with other tobacco products?

It's not recommended to store cigars with other tobacco products, such as cigarettes or pipe tobacco, as they can absorb flavors and aromas from each other. Instead, store your cigars in a dedicated humidor to maintain their unique flavor profile.

How long can I store cigars in a humidor?

The length of time you can store cigars in a humidor depends on various factors, including the type of cigar, the humidity level, and the storage conditions. Generally, cigars can be stored for several years if properly maintained.

Can I store cigars in a humidor at room temperature?

It's not recommended to store cigars at room temperature, as this can cause them to become dry and brittle. Instead, store your cigars in a humidor at a consistent temperature between 65-70°F (18-21°C).

How often should I inspect my cigars?

It's recommended to inspect your cigars regularly, ideally every 1-2 weeks, to ensure they're maintaining their quality and flavor. Check for signs of mold, mildew, or dryness, and adjust the humidity level as needed.

What should I do if I notice mold or mildew on my cigars?

If you notice mold or mildew on your cigars, remove them from the humidor immediately and discard them. Clean and disinfect the humidor to prevent the spread of mold and mildew.

Can I restore a cigar that has become dry or damaged?

In some cases, it's possible to restore a dry or damaged cigar by slowly re-humidifying it in a controlled environment. However, this process can be tricky and may not always be successful.

How do I properly handle and store cigar boxes?

Handle cigar boxes with care to prevent damage or crushing. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and consider using a protective sleeve or box to maintain their condition.

Can I reuse a cigar box to store other cigars?

It's generally not recommended to reuse a cigar box to store other cigars, as the box may retain flavors and aromas from the original cigars. Instead, use a new box or a dedicated storage container to maintain the unique flavor profile of your cigars.