Expert: James Yee - 7/14/2009

Question
Hi,
I recently purchased a 300 count humidor. I then had is seasoned by my local cigar shop.
After placing about 100 cigars in it I am now having an issue with too much humidity.
I relocated the humidor from the wall and placed it in the center of my home, which made it a little cooler. (dropped temp from 75 to 72) but the humidity still remained around 75%.
I then purchased a cigar oasis xl plus, thinking that it would help regulate the humidity. I have it set at 70.0% but my digital hygrometer reads 75%. I also have an analog hygrometer and it reads about 70.% but think that the digital is probably more accurate.
Please share your thoughts about how to get on top of this.
When i open my box, it has a great smell but am concerned that too much humidity and temp are bad for the sticks.

thanks for you help.
cigarjaxx

Answer
Hi Jack,

Was your humidor seasoned recently?  If yes, you may need to let your humidor sit for a few days (after adding your cigars) so that the humidity can re-stabilize itself.  

Next, most digital hygrometers are usually accurate straight out of the box but some units may need to be configured in order to work properly.  Check your digital hygrometer to make sure that it's working properly.

If your humidor has had high humidity for more than a couple of weeks and your digital hygrometer is functioning properly, you should add some humidity beads to your humidor and this will absorb the excess humidity and your humidity should return to normal (70%).  Humidity beads can be purchased at most cigar stores.  Simply pour the beads into a vented container or dish and place it in your humidor.  A 1lb. bag of beads should be more than enough.  Simply follow the instructions on the packaging to determine the amount of beads you need to use.  (If the package doesn't explain it, let me know and I'll post the measurement instructions for you.)

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

Regards,
James