Expert: M J Robbins - 6/28/2010

Question
M J, I have learned a lot reading through previous questions asked however I still have a few questions about cigars that still seem to be unanswered or perhaps asked.
1) Is there any way to cure a "dry" cigar? If I keep it in my humidor for a long time will it re-fresh?
2) I have seen a few people complain about "mushy" cigars, tampered by too much humidity. If this becomes a future problem, can I leave them out of the box and let them dry? Is there a way to dry cigars to save them?
3) I just recently used distilled water and only distilled water to charge my humidor. Will that cause my humidor to "over- humidify" or vice verca?

Answer
So sorry I was out of town and forgot to say so on the site.

1. Yes it will refresh if the humidor is working properly. Put water in more often till they are soft again.

2. Take out the humidification till the humidity is restored and the cigars feel fine. For real bad situations leave the box open to drop humidity for a few days or more. For real mushy cigars you have to leave them out for weeks to dry then restore them over a few weeks at least to bring them back. Always leave them in the wrappers they come in and this helps to keep them stable.

3. Distilled water is best but the size of the device has to be perfect for your box and the humidity at your location. So this can be difficult sometimes. A digital hygrometer is necessary to keep track and ask for help if there is a problem.
Propylene Glycol (50-50) helps keep mold from growing and is suggested at least every few months and this drops humidity a few percent.

Ask for more if you need it.
Mike