Seasoning a Humidor

Seasoning a humidor is the essential first step before storing cigars in any wood-lined humidor, particularly those made of Spanish cedar. It involves gradually introducing moisture to the interior wood to bring it to the proper humidity level—ensuring that it doesn’t absorb moisture from your cigars and compromise their freshness or flavor.

A properly seasoned humidor maintains consistent humidity, preserves your cigars' oils and structure, and protects against cracking, mold, and beetle infestation.

seasoning a cigar humidor

Why Seasoning Matters

Without seasoning, the dry wood inside a humidor will pull moisture from your cigars, resulting in:

  • Dry, brittle wrappers prone to cracking
  • Loss of essential oils and flavor degradation
  • Burn issues like tunneling or canoeing
  • An unstable microclimate that fluctuates with ambient air

Spanish cedar is excellent for moisture retention—but only once it's been properly conditioned.

“An unseasoned humidor will sabotage your cigars faster than almost any other mistake.”
— Cigar Aficionado – Humidor Basics

When to Season a Humidor

  • When using a new wooden humidor for the first time
  • After the humidor has been empty or unused for a long period
  • If internal humidity has dropped below 60% RH for an extended time
  • After replacing the seal or internal components

Note: Acrylic, metal, or plastic humidors typically do not require seasoning.

How to Season a Humidor (2 Proven Methods)

🔹 Method 1: Traditional Sponge & Distilled Water

  1. Wipe interior surfaces (walls, lid, tray) with a clean sponge lightly dampened with distilled water
  2. Place a small bowl of distilled water or a damp sponge inside the humidor
  3. Insert a hygrometer and close the lid
  4. Leave for 3–5 days, checking daily until humidity reaches 65–70% RH
  5. Remove the bowl and begin adding cigars once stable

Do not over-saturate or drip water directly onto the cedar—this can warp the wood.

🔹 Method 2: Boveda 84% Seasoning Packs

  1. Place the recommended number of Boveda 84% seasoning packs in the empty humidor
  2. Close the lid and leave it sealed for 14 days
  3. Remove the seasoning packs and replace them with regular Boveda 69%–72% packs
  4. Confirm with hygrometer that humidity is stable

This method is safer, mess-free, and ideal for beginners or collectors with multiple humidors.

Source: Boveda – How to Season a Humidor

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using tap water (can cause mold due to minerals and chlorine)
  • Over-wetting the wood
  • Adding cigars before seasoning is complete
  • Rushing the process or leaving the lid open frequently
  • Forgetting to use a calibrated digital hygrometer

Maintenance After Seasoning

Once seasoned, keep the humidor stable by:

  • Maintaining 65–70% RH using regulated humidification tools (e.g., Boveda, Humidipaks, or crystal gels)
  • Monitoring temperature around 65–70°F (18–21°C)
  • Refilling or replacing humidity devices as needed
  • Periodically checking for seal integrity and mold

Related Glossary Entries

Summary

Seasoning a humidor is a non-negotiable step for anyone serious about preserving their cigars. It’s not just about moisture—it’s about creating a stable aging environment that allows your cigars to maintain their oils, structure, and flavor integrity over time. Done properly, seasoning sets the foundation for every perfect smoke that follows.