Expert: James Yee - 12/8/2009

Question
QUESTION: I've read some answers from Bill and James about relative humidity as rooms become cooler in winter. The room in which my humidor is in is about 60 degrees in the winter. Sometimes as low as 58. What should the relative humidity of my humidor be? (I am guessing +1% per degree Fahrenheit under 70 - but would like an expert's answer)

ANSWER: Hi Bill,

Regardless of too hot or too cold temperatures, the humidity level in a humidor should be approximately 70% (the safe range for humidity is 67-74% and 70% is considered ideal.)  It's often suggested that the colder the temperature is in your home or humidor, the more humidity should be used in your humidor.  This is incorrect.  The necessary humidity for your cigars should be 70%.  If the humidity is greater than 75% (regardless of temperature), your cigars will become soggy and mold can form.  If the humidity is less than 66%, your cigars will become too dry.

ASC's cigar FAQ best explains this.  For more information, you can read about the variable humidity myth here:
http://www.cigargroup.com/faq/#5.0a

Hopes this helps.  If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you James, that link is most helpful as was your answer. OK, now for the follow up. For calibrating my (el cheapo) hygrometer, will the salt slush remain at 75% regardless of temperature? (Yah I know, buy a good humidifying device - Christmas is coming <G>).  

Answer
Hi Bill,

Yes, the salt mixture will remain at 75% in colder temperatures.  Also, be sure to add only a tiny bit of distilled water so that the salt mixture is "crumbly" and not a slush or paste.

Hopes this helps!  As always, if you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy ot help.

Regards,
James