Small cigar humidor

Types of small cigar humidors

The main purpose of a small cigar humidor is to store cigars and keep them fresh. The humidifier maintains the desired moisture level in the box. There are several types of small humidors, each with its unique properties.

• Portable cigar humidors

  Portable humidors are small and can be easily transported. They are ideal for storing cigars when traveling or away from home. These humidors come in different sizes, but most are designed to hold a limited number of cigars, typically ranging from 10 to 50. Compact design, durable construction, and reliable moisture control make them perfect for keeping cigars fresh wherever one goes.

• Tabletop cigar humidors

  Cigar humidors are larger than portable ones and are meant to be kept on a table or countertop. They offer more storage space, making them suitable for collectors or those who regularly enjoy cigars. Tabletop humidors come in various styles and designs, from classic wooden boxes to modern glass-top units. They often feature multiple shelves or drawers for organized storage and can accommodate anywhere from 50 to several hundred cigars.

• Wall-mounted cigar humidors

  These humidors are designed to be mounted on a wall, making them an excellent space-saving solution for people with limited floor space. Wall-mounted humidors offer convenient access to stored cigars and can be a stylish addition to home or office decor. They come in various sizes and styles, from small cabinets that hold a few dozen cigars to larger units that can store hundreds.

• Cabinet cigar humidors

  Cabinet cigar humidors are large units designed to store extensive cigar collections. They typically have a built-in humidification system that makes it easy to maintain the proper humidity level, and they often come with features like digital hygrometers, adjustable shelves, and locking doors. Cabinet humidors can be freestanding or built-in and are perfect for serious cigar enthusiasts who need plenty of storage space.

• Travel cigar humidors

  Travel humidors are designed for people who like to enjoy cigars while traveling. These compact, portable humidors can easily fit into luggage or carry-on bags. Despite their small size, travel humidors can keep cigars fresh during trips. They are typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or high-quality plastic and feature secure latches or locks to protect cigars from damage.

• Desktop cigar humidors

  Desktop humidors are meant to be kept on a desk, countertop, or other flat surfaces. They are compact and stylish, providing easy access to cigars while working or relaxing at home. Desktop humidors usually come with a glass top or front, allowing one to see the cigars inside. They often have decorative elements like inlaid designs or metal accents, making them attractive furnishings as well as functional storage.

Design of small cigar humidors

A small cigar humidor is designed to keep cigars in the best possible condition. It controls the humidity, temperature, and air quality inside. This section will discuss the design features of humidors, including style, materials, construction, and functional attributes.

• Style and Aesthetics

  Small humidors have different styles. They can be classic, modern, or trendy. The exterior shows this style and is often sleek and elegant. It may have wood, glass, or metal. Glossy finishes or decorative details can make it look nicer.

• Materials

  A small cigar humidor is usually made to last. The main material is often solid or plywood with a veneer. The wood is chosen for its beauty and ability to keep humidity. Other materials, like glass and metal, may be used for modern designs. They, too, need to be strong and safe.

• Construction and Craftsmanship

  Creating small humidors requires skill. The wood is cut precisely and joined well. Some designs have curved or detailed wooden parts. The inside is lined with Spanish cedar wood because it keeps humidity well and has a pleasant smell. The humidor must seal tightly to keep the air in and the humidity level constant.

• Functional Attributes

  The key feature of a small cigar humidor is its ability to maintain the proper humidity level, typically between 65% and 75%. This is achieved through the use of a hygrometer, which measures the humidity, and a humidification system, which can be passive (like humidification beads) or active (like electronic humidifiers). The design also includes ventilation to ensure that the humidity and temperature are consistent throughout the humidor. Moreover, some models come with adjustable dividers or removable trays, allowing for the organization of different cigar brands or sizes.

Usage scenarios of small cigar humidors

Keeping cigars fresh and flavorful is the main purpose of a humidor. But these humidors serve many other purposes. They are:

• Protect cigars from pests:

  Cigars can be a snack for tobacco beetles. A small cigar humidor protects the cigars from these pests and extends their life.

• Travel humidors:

  Traveling with cigars is possible thanks to portable humidors. These travel humidors have a secure design and maintain humidity on the go.

• Decorative pieces:

  Many humidors look elegant. They can be a decorative piece in a room or a cabinet. Some even have a place to show cigars and other tobacco products.

• As a gift:

  A humidor can be a great gift for cigar lovers. Gifting humidors with personalized designs or adding a few premium cigars can make the gift special.

• Keeping other items:

  Besides cigars, humidors can keep other items fresh. Users can store items like cannabis, flavored rolling papers, or even rare teas.

How to choose a small cigar humidor

• Capacity

  When selecting a humidor, it's essential to consider the number of cigars to be stored. Small humidors can hold 25-50 cigars, perfect for casual smokers with a modest collection. As such, the capacity should suit the user's needs and prevent overcrowding. A humidor with a higher capacity than needed can result in an inadequate humidity level, while a smaller one may over-saturate.

• Material

  The most common material used in small humidors is wood, especially Spanish cedar, because it has excellent humidity-retaining properties and gives a pleasant aroma. Some other materials include glass, metal, and leather, with each offering a distinct aesthetic and set of advantages. For instance, a glass-top humidor allows for easy monitoring of the cigar collection and adds a touch of elegance to the display. Moreover, ensure that the materials used in the humidor construction, especially the lining, are of good quality and will retain moisture well; otherwise, the humidor will not work as it should, and the cigars will not stay fresh.

• Seals and Hinges

  A tight seal is crucial for maintaining consistent humidity levels within the humidor. Check the humidor's seals and hinges by opening and closing it several times to ensure it is tight. Humidors with magnetic seals and brass or silver-plated hinges are preferable as they retain humidity better and are more durable, respectively.

• Calibration

  Some small humidors come with built-in hygrometers, while others require a separate purchase. It's important to have a reliable hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels inside the humidor, as it helps keep cigars fresh and ensures they are neither too dry nor too wet. Calibrated digital hygrometers are easy to read and provide accurate humidity readings, making them essential for maintaining optimal cigar storage conditions.

• Design and Aesthetics

  Consider the humidor's design and how it will fit into the intended space. Does it match the decor? Does it have a classic wooden finish or a modern glass-top design? The humidor should be functional and complement the surrounding environment.

• Price

  Finally, the price is a crucial factor when choosing a small cigar humidor. Small humidors are available at various prices, but they should still be affordable, depending on the features, materials used, and craftsmanship. However, don't compromise quality for a lower price; a good humidor is an investment that will protect cigars for many years.

Q&A

Q1: How often should the humidor be hydrated?

A1: The frequency can depend on several factors, such as the season, climate, and how long the humidor has been dry. Typically, the humidifier should be moistened once a week. Before humidifying, check the hygrometer reading. If it drops below 65%, it needs hydration.

Q2: What can be done to raise the humidity level in a cigar humidor?

A2: If the humidor's humidity level is too low, it can raise it by using distilled water or a propylene glycol solution to moisten the humidifier. Alternatively, users can place a shallow dish of distilled water inside the humidor.

Q3: What kind of water should be used to humidify a cigar humidor?

A3: Always use distilled water or a propylene glycol solution when humidifying a cigar humidor. Tap water contains minerals and chemicals that can damage the humidifier and affect the humidor's performance.

Q4: How long does it take to season a cigar humidor?

A4: Usually, it takes 24 to 48 hours to season a cigar humidor. However, it can take longer if the wood is particularly dry or if the humidor has never been hydrated.

Q5: Can the wrong seasoning affect the cigars?

A5: Yes, if the humidor is seasoned incorrectly, it can damage the cigars by either drying them out or making them too wet. An improper seasoning can cause the cigar's wrapper to crack or split and mold growth, affecting the cigars' taste and quality.