The first reason that cigar humidors are used is to maintain a certain temperature that is as close to the natural environment of the tobacco as possible. Cigars are typically made in tropical areas, so the temperature inside the device should be somewhere in the neighborhood of seventy or eighty degrees Fahrenheit. Anything lower than that can cause drying and loss of natural flavors.

Also, the humidity levels in these tropical regions are usually around seventy percent or so, which is exactly where cigar humidors should be set. By maintaining this humidity level, the leaves won't get dry and flavorless. The result with too little humidity will be stale cigars, and that is quite unappealing.

By maintaining a stable temperature and humidity, the tobacco not only stays fresh, but it also prevents a tobacco beetle-whose larvae live dormant in leaves-from taking over the cigars and destroying them. You see, a cigar humidor keeps out the dry and the cold, and it also prevents the too-hot and too-humid conditions that these beetles thrive in.

Beyond the humidity and temperature levels, it is important to note that all cigar humidors are not equipped exactly the same way. For instance, not every humidor out there comes standard with a humidification system. And for the ones that do, you need to know exactly how they work. For example, some use plain old water to create humidity, whereas others use specially formulated solutions.

Speaking of the interior of cigar humidors, one of the most important yet often overlooked factors is what type of wood in used on interior portions of the humidor. A cigar can become flavorless quite quickly if the wrong wood is used. Conversely, the cigar could take on the flavor of a very strong wood, which is also bad. It is widely accepted that Spanish cedar is the best choice for cigar humidors.

Overall, cigar humidors are the only reasonable place to store your cigars. If you want to preserve the freshness, the taste, and the overall quality, you must use appropriate storage methods. Whether you go with an armoire-sized behemoth or a small, decorative unit for your den, know that your cigars are safe and sound in the tropical oasis you've provided.