Expert: M J Robbins - 10/29/2010

Question
Hi, I made a rookie mistake with my coolidor. I used dasani water to sponge
some dry cedar while attempting to bring the humidity level up in my igloo
cooler. I then poured some water in a bowl with the sponge and set it inside
the cooler overnight. Well, that did the trick and my level was 70/72, but then
I read the bottle of water and saw how dasani enhances their water with
minerals for taste. Doh! So now I have bitter tasting cigars.

Here are my questions. (I have a new Humidor being shipped as we speak). Is
there any way to 'age' these contaminated cigars and bring them back to life
or are they spoiled? Also if they can come back to life, will those
contaminated cigars affect any other cigars that will go into the new humidor
or shall I attempt to age the bad stogies in the cooler, separate from any new
cigars?
Is the crystal gel humidor (jar) contaminated now too? I bought it at the store
ready to go, but I have a feeling the bad water may have absorbed into the
crystals. Is it now junk or can I let it dry out and refill with distilled water later
down the road? I am assuming the cedar is bad now too

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I have cigars that will be
arriving today & I am glad I noticed my blunder before their arrival.

Thank You

Joe

Answer
The cigars are ruined.
Throw out the jar of beads.
Start with new humidification.

Just forget your first mistake - a coolidor and all the devices. Please never return to this option.

And enjoy your new humidor I hope it comes with humidification.
Moisture falls because of gravity so a top humidification device is the best not a jar.
Otherwise use Boveda right on top of the cigars.

If you use a sponge in your new humidor you risk the chance of mold.
Don't wipe down the box with water also unless you are in a dry climate.
Just soak the humidity device in distilled water - a little 50/50 solution also to contain mold. Boveda packets help bring moisture into the box also.
Leave the cigars in the wrappers they come in to protect them.

Enjoy
Mike