The most common way cigar smokers ruin a new humidor is also the most avoidable: they skip seasoning, fill it with cigars, and wonder why everything dried out in a week. Spanish cedar — the wood used to line every quality humidor — is hygroscopic, meaning it aggressively absorbs moisture from the air around it. An unseasoned humidor will pull humidity away from your cigars instead of maintaining it. Fifteen minutes of patience up front prevents months of frustration.
What You Need
Distilled water only — never tap water. Tap water contains minerals and trace chlorine that will deposit on the wood, degrade your humidification device, and introduce off-flavors over time. You will also need either a clean, lint-free cloth or sponge, or alternatively a set of Boveda seasoning packets (the 84% RH variety is designed specifically for this). A small plastic bag or bowl for holding the water source. And patience — proper seasoning takes 48 to 72 hours depending on the humidor's size and the current ambient humidity of your environment.
The Distilled Water Method
Wipe every interior cedar surface with a cloth dampened with distilled water — not soaked, dampened. You want the wood to absorb moisture, not sit in water. Cover the humidor's wooden dividers and trays if it has them. Then place a small bowl of distilled water inside (not touching the wood directly — put it on a plastic bag) and close the lid. After 24 hours, check the hygrometer reading. If it reads 84%+, remove the bowl. If it reads below 70%, repeat the process. Wait another 24 hours before loading cigars.
The Boveda Method (Easier, Slower)
Boveda makes 84% RH seasoning packs designed specifically for humidor preparation. Place two to four packs (depending on humidor size) inside the empty humidor and close the lid. Leave it for 14 days. No water contact with the wood, no risk of over-wetting, no mold. The tradeoff is time — the Boveda method is slower but nearly foolproof. Especially recommended for high-end humidors where the wood is thicker and requires a more gradual moisture absorption.
The Mistakes That Ruin Humidors
Mistake one: using tap water. See above. Mistake two: over-wetting. Pouring water directly onto the wood or leaving a soaking sponge in contact with the cedar can cause the wood to warp, crack, or develop mold. Mistake three: adding cigars before the humidity stabilizes. The cedar is still equalizing — any cigars added during this period will give up their moisture to the wood and dry out. Mistake four: trusting the cheap hygrometer that came with the humidor. Most factory hygrometers are off by 5–10%. Calibrate with a salt test or replace with a digital hygrometer from Caliber or Xikar before you rely on any readings.
A properly seasoned humidor maintained between 65–70% RH will keep your cigars in smoking condition for years. The 72 hours you spend seasoning is the cheapest cigar insurance you will ever buy.
About the Author
PYRE Cigars
Editorial Team
The PYRE team is made up of cigar enthusiasts, tobacconists, and tasters dedicated to finding the best smoke for every occasion.