Expert: Bill Finck Jr. - 4/19/2009

Question
Bill,
I have a Xikar 250XI travel humidor (of course it came without instructions)and am using their PG solution.  I have read an article that says that you're supposed to use PG once every 6 months or so then use distilled water in between.  I thought I could use just use PG. What are your thoughts on this?  Also, do you know if there is a good hygrometer that can be used (i.e. fit) in these travel humidors?  Thanks,
Doug

Answer
Doug,

The Xikar propylene glycol solution is designed to be used continuously in humidifiers. The old method of using straight PG every six months works, but is not as effective as using a pre-mixed solution of PG and distilled water like the Xikar brand you are using.

The Xikar travel humidors don't have much space in them, so you'd end up squeezing a hygrometer into the foam, and that may not give you an accurate reading. I wouldn't spend the money on a hygrometer for one of these travel units - they are so airtight that they need minimal solution and still keep cigars very fresh.

Hope this helps.
Bill