Expert: James Yee - 2/27/2010

Question
I have a 50 ct humidor that was holding a perfect 70% but need to get a larger humidor for additional smokes. I bought a cuban crafters 3 tray with 2 double humidfication system on top (they have green foam inside each) I also bought Propylene Glycol 50/50 to put in it and also put it in my origanal box. I noticed that the the origanl humidor's smokes (both kept at 70% to 72%) got a chemical taste. About a week ago I tried to flush the Propylene Glycol out with distilled water from both boxes but the smokes still taste like chemicals. could this be fixed and will my smokes regain thier flavor? how can I resolve this and what can i do to fix my smokes? should I let humidity out of the box (dry it out) wipe the smokes with a damp cloth, reflush the hole box and humidify the box once more without the PG? would like to smoke one ASAP or at least on that dont taste like RAT POISON!!! PLEASE HELP!!!

Answer
Hi Rob,

If you remove the PG from your humidor, the chemical taste in your cigars will slowly dissipate over time.  It may take a few months but the chemical taste will eventually soften and fade.  What you should do now is either thoroughly flush out the PG from your humidification devices or replace them altogether with brand new units.  If your humidor has a chemical smell, dry out your humidor and re-season it with distilled water.  You can delicately wipe down your cigars with a paper towel and distilled water but it won't remove the chemical smell/taste immediately (again, diffusing the smell/taste will take time.)  Once you remove the PG, the cigars and humidor's natural aroma will slowly return.

If you're having a hard time maintaining humidity below 74%, consider switching to an electronic humidifier that allows you to custom set the humidity level.

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

Regards,
James