How to Properly Store Your Cigars at Home (With or Without a Humidor)

Premium cigars are delicate, handcrafted products—and like fine wine, they need the right environment to age well and smoke perfectly. Whether you’re a new smoker or just bought your first few sticks, learning how to store your cigars properly will protect your investment and elevate your smoking experience.

🌡️ Why Storage Matters

Cigars are made from natural tobacco leaves that absorb moisture from the air. If they dry out, they lose flavor, burn too fast, and can crack. If they get too humid, they become spongy, moldy, or difficult to light. The ideal storage conditions:

• Humidity: 65%–72%
• Temperature: 65°F–70°F

🧰 3 Easy Ways to Store Cigars at Home

1. The Humidor (The Best Option)

A humidor is a specially designed box that maintains proper humidity levels using a humidifier. If you’re serious about cigars, even at the beginner level, investing in a quality humidor is a smart move.

2. Tupperdor (Budget-Friendly Alternative)

Use a clean Tupperware container with an airtight seal. Add a small Boveda humidity pack inside, and you’ve got yourself a makeshift humidor. Tip: Avoid storing it in the fridge—temperature swings can damage cigars.

3. Ziploc + Boveda Pack (Short-Term Storage)

For up to 1–2 weeks, you can keep cigars in a Ziploc bag with a humidity pack. Not ideal long-term, but better than leaving them out in the open.

🔍 Signs Your Cigars Are Improperly Stored

• Too dry? Cracks when handled, burns hot and fast.
• Too moist? Feels squishy, draws poorly, or has mold.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic. With the right storage, cigars can often be revived.

💬 Final Thought

You don’t need to be a cigar expert or have an expensive setup to store cigars properly. A little care goes a long way. But if you’re ready to take your cigar experience seriously, a humidor is one of the best investments you can make.