Expert: M J Robbins - 11/2/2010

Question
i recently found mold on one of my cigars.  i also then found mold near the analog hydrometer and on the humidification unit (paradigm 125 cigar). my humidity averages 69-70% and the temp is usually 70 degrees or under. i always use  distilled water. the humidor is a glass top 100 count  model. the question is what caused the mold?

Answer
Mold occurs in a warm moist environment.
The cigar probably was the culprit, wipe it off with a little rubbing alcohol and leave it out to dry for a day.

For a glass top humidor you must use Boveda on the top shelve and some propylene glycol every 4 months in the humidification device to inhibit the growth of mold. But only with Boveda pillows have I never seen mold.
At 65 degrees mold is inhibited and that is what you find in the best refrigerated humidors, but they cost a lot.

Now get rid of the Paradigm - I tested this device 5 years ago and thought it was WAY overpriced and did not hold enough water. Throw out the hygrometer and get a nice new digital for around $30 average.
Get an average humidity device for $10 - $15 dollars and use Propylene glycol and distilled water.
Use Propylene glycol every 4 months - distilled water every month or so as humidity drops.

Good luck
Mike