For any true cigar enthusiast, a humidor is more than just a storage box—it’s the second home for your precious sticks. But have you ever wondered why your cigars seem to dry out even when you have an expensive humidifier inside? Or why the first few smokes from a new box taste harsh and "green"?
The culprit is likely an unseasoned humidor.In the cigar world, we call this process Seasoning.
The Thirst of Spanish Cedar
Most quality humidors are lined with Spanish cedar. This wood is naturally porous, acting like a giant sponge. If you place your cigars and a standard 65% or 69% 2-way humidity control pack into a new or dried-out box, the wood will aggressively steal moisture from your cigars before they can stabilize. You end up with dry cigars and a wooden box that still isn't properly hydrated.
The Magic of 84%
The 84% humidity control pack was engineered specifically to combat this "wooden thirst." An 84% Relative Humidity level is the sweet spot—it’s high enough to saturate the wood fibers but low enough to prevent mold growth during the short seasoning period.
Its job is not to humidify cigars, but to "feed the wood." Over 14 to 21 days, the wood cells absorb the necessary moisture to reach equilibrium.
The Proper "Breaking In" Protocol:
1.Wipe Down: Gently clean the interior with a slightly damp cloth to remove dust.
2.Charge: Place 2-3 RH 84% two way humidity packs inside (typically 2 packs for a 100-count humidor).
3.Wait: Close the lid tight and let it sit for about 14 days. Resist the urge to peek or add cigars!
4.Transition: Remove humidity packs and replace them with your preferred long-term 2 way humidity control packs (65% or 69%).
5.Rest: Allow the humidity to stabilize for another 24 hours before moving your cigars in.
A Final Note
A common mistake among beginners is treating the 84% pack as a long-term solution. Remember, 84% is an "appetizer," not the main course. Leaving it in permanently will lead to moldy, cracked cigars. Once the seasoning is complete, switch back to your regular humidity packs immediately.
