Cigar use-by date?

[bloodhound]

Hi,

I don't smoke cigars that often but may start soon.
So I don't want to spend money on things like humidors etc just yet.

If I buy several cigars can someone please tell me what kind of environment I should keep them in and for how long at a maximum?

Thanks.
Bloodhound.

[Deano]

You can keep them in a tupperware box with a damp sponge (the water being distilled). Don't let the cigars touch the sponge.

You should aim for 70% humidity, but if you don't have a digital hydrometer etc, then you'll just have to give with the above and keep your fingers crossed. It's unlikely you'll be able to get it exactly at that point with a normal sponge anyway.

Tbh this should do a newbie for a few cigars for a few weeks.

[HabanoSy]

Hi,

I don't smoke cigars that often but may start soon.
So I don't want to spend money on things like humidors etc just yet.

If I buy several cigars can someone please tell me what kind of environment I should keep them in and for how long at a maximum?

Hi Bloodhound

There is no real substitute for a humidor, but you could start off with buying tubed cigars and then keeping these in an airtight box in a cool cupboard as far away as possible from a heat source.

If you are going to by untubed singles you could try putting them in an airtight bag with just a fine mist spray of distilled water (and I do mean a fine mist spray!!!) and then store these as explained above. However, I wouldn't really recommend this option...!!!

A cigar left out in a home with central heating, or a home with air conditioning can dry out very quickly (couple hours).

Hopefully thats enough info for you to be getting on with, but im sure there will be more input from the other guys when they pop in later.

Cheers, HabanoSy

[bigbarneyhotdog]

An air tight sandwich box with some humidification beads (cheap as chips from ebay) soaked in distilled water in a jar lid, should be just as good as any humidor for short term storage

[bloodhound]

Cool thanks for the reply fellas. Will try one of those when I get some cigars.
Just checked out the website for the shop in Teddington. May have to pay them a visit as I'm not too far from them.