Expert: James Yee - 4/1/2008

Question
James,

I've not had any problems in storing my cigars in the humidor I have but I've been considering purchasing a box of cigars for the first time.  My question is: What is the proper method of storage for an unopened box of cigars?

Thanks,

Greg

Answer
Hi Greg,

The best option for storing whole boxes of cigars without investing too much maintenance, time or money is to keep the box(es) stored in a "humi-pouch".  As you may know, humi-pouches are Ziploc-style plastic bags with a humidified lining built right into the plastic.  They're designed for short-term cigar storage/travel and can keep your cigars properly maintained for 3 months straight.  After 3 months, you would need to replace the bag(s).  They're available in a variety of sizes and the best part about these bags is that they do not require any maintenance or supervision and are extremely accurate at maintaining proper humidity.  Simply store your cigars in the bags and you never have to worry about them for 3 months.  

Depending on the size of the bag, humi-pouches can cost anywhere from $5 to $15 a bag.

Alternatively, another method for storing whole boxes of cigars without a humidor is to keep them in a "coolerdor".  Coolerdors are commonly used by cigar smokers/collectors and they're simply large beverage coolers lined with Spanish cedar and fitted with a humidification device.  The humidifier is the same kind of device that regular humidors use and can be purchased at any cigar shop for anywhere between $5 to $15.  Just like "tupperdors" (smaller Tupperware humidors), coolerdors are inexpensive to construct and very reliable at maintaining cigars.  Constructing a coolerdor can cost anywhere between $25 to $50.

For a more professional alternative, many cigar stores/lounges offer humidor lockers/cabinets for rent or you can consider upgrading your humidor to a larger unit that can accommodate whole boxes such as a humidor cabinet.

Hope this answers your question.  If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I'll be happy to help.

Regards,
James