How to Make a Homemade Cigar Humidor

Building a homemade cigar humidor is a rewarding project that will help you preserve your cigars in optimal conditions. Here are the main steps to building a cigar humidor at home.

1. Choice of Container

To start, you need a suitable container that can be converted into a humidor. A wooden chest , metal box , or cooler are popular options. The key is to choose an airtight container to maintain a stable humidity level. The most effective humidors are often made of Spanish cedar wood, which helps regulate humidity, but it is possible to convert other types of containers if you incorporate cedar into them.

• Option 1: Use an existing container – A small wooden chest or box can be lined with cedar sheets to make an economical cigar humidor.
• Option 2: Build a Chest from Scratch – If you’re handy, you can build a chest out of Spanish cedar, although this method requires some carpentry skills.

2. Installation of Cedar Siding

Spanish cedar is recommended for lining the inside of your humidor because it absorbs excess moisture and redistributes it when the air becomes too dry. Cedar also protects cigars from mold and pests.

• Buying Cedar Sheets : Find cedar sheets at woodworking supply stores.
• Cutting and fitting the plates : The sheets should be cut to the inside dimensions of the container. Use an odorless adhesive to secure the plates against the walls of the box.
• Tightness Adjustment : Make sure the cedar boards are snug to prevent air leaks and keep moisture inside.

3. Installation of a Humidification System

The heart of any humidor is the humidification system that maintains the humidity level between 65% and 75%. There are several options for adding a humidifier to your humidor:

• Passive humidifiers : These systems work with sponges or humidification bags filled with distilled water or glycol solution. Simply place these elements in the cellar to regulate humidity.
• Active humidifiers : Electric active systems allow for more precise humidity control, although they are more expensive. These devices add or remove humidity as needed.

You will also need to invest in a hygrometer , a small instrument that measures the humidity level inside your cellar. Analog or digital hygrometers are recommended for regularly monitoring humidity.

4. Seal and Test the Cellar

Once you have finished the interior with cedar and installed the humidification system, it is important to test the cellar for leaks.

• Checking for leaks : Close the cellar and check for air leaks. A simple method is to use a sheet of paper. If the sheet does not slide easily once the cellar is closed, it means that it is properly sealed.
• Cedar Saturation : Before storing your cigars, it is recommended to saturate the cedar slabs by letting the humidifier sit for several days. This ensures that the wood absorbs moisture and maintains a stable level.

5. Storing Cigars

After preparing the humidor, you can begin storing your cigars. Be sure to follow a few best practices:

• Organization : It is best to organize cigars by type or date of purchase, using dividers to prevent them from coming into direct contact with each other.
• Rotate Cigars : Every few months, rotate your cigars to ensure even humidification.
• Humidor Maintenance : Check the hygrometer regularly and refill the humidifier as needed. Be sure to keep your humidor temperature between 16 and 20°C to prevent cigars from drying out.

Conclusion

Building a homemade cigar humidor is a practical and rewarding project for cigar lovers. By following the steps of installing cedar wood, choosing a good humidification system, and ensuring careful humidity management, you will ensure optimal preservation of your cigars. This will allow you to preserve the freshness, flavor, and quality of your precious cigars for many years to come.