As local cigar shop owner, I get asked many questions. Some complicated and in depth, some as simple as "how long will this cutter last?". One of the more common questions is "what is the proper temperature and humidity for cigars?" The answer is... I have to ask you a question. What are you doing with your cigars? Seems like a silly question; smoking them, of course. But when will you smoke them is the real question.
You may have heard of the old saying "70-70" for cigars, stating that cigars should be maintained strictly at 70 degrees and 70% humidity. This is a good general guideline but definitely not required. If you buy some cigars and plan to smoke them with in a week and a half, then you shouldn't worry about keeping them humid, as a tobacconist will maintain them in a proper humidity range. Just keep them in the zip lock bag I gave you and smoke them at will. If you plan to store (age) your precious cargo, here are some guidelines: You SHOULD have a seasoned humidor. Keep that box at a temperature between 67-72 degrees. Maintain the humidor at between 68-71% humidity.
This may seem like a daunting task, but it's really not. After a humidor is properly seasoned (another article), it will easily maintain your humidity in a normal home atmosphere. Think about it, your home is usually between 65-78 degrees in open living areas year round. Relative humidity in Central Texas averages 80%. Not very far from our number we want, huh? Inside that box, the temperature will fluctuate much less than your home, humidity as well. Fear not if your cigars do not stay within the old 70-70 rule, they WILL be fine. Remember: life is short, enjoy your cigars!
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