Why Are Elie Bleu Humidors So Expensive? 

What is a humidor?

How to season a humidor?

1. Start by cleaning the interior of the humidor thoroughly with a damp cloth. Make sure to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated.
2. Next, purchase a humidor solution or solution kit that is specifically designed for seasoning humidors. These typically contain a mix of distilled water and propylene glycol, which helps to maintain the proper humidity levels in the humidor.
3. Fill the humidification device (such as a humidifier or sponge) with the solution and place it in the humidor. You can also use a small dish or container filled with the solution.
4. Close the lid of the humidor and let it sit for at least 24 hours. This allows the solution to absorb into the wood and create a properly humid environment.
5. After 24 hours, remove the humidification device and wipe down the interior of the humidor with a clean, damp cloth.
6. Check the humidity level using a hygrometer. The humidity level should be between 68% and 72%. If it is not, add more solution to the humidification device and let it sit for another 24 hours.
7. Repeat this process until the desired humidity level is achieved. Once the humidity level is stable, you can begin to store your cigars in the humidor. Be sure to monitor the humidity level regularly and add solutions as needed to maintain the proper humidity level.

How does the humidor work?

A humidor is a container or room that is used to store cigars or other tobacco products at a specific humidity level. The humidity level is controlled by a device called a hygrometer, which measures the humidity inside the humidor.

The humidor typically has a humidifying device, such as a humidifier or a humidifying gel, which releases moisture into the air inside the humidor. This moisture helps to keep the cigars at the desired humidity level, which is typically around 70%.

The humidor also has a seal, such as a tight-fitting lid or a door, that helps to keep the humidity inside the container. The seal also helps to keep the cigars fresh by preventing the cigars from drying out or absorbing moisture from the outside air.

Some humidors also have a temperature control feature to keep the cigars at a specific temperature, typically around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps to keep the cigars at their optimal condition for aging and smoking.

Overall, the humidor works by controlling the humidity and temperature inside the container to keep cigars fresh and at their optimal condition for smoking.

How to make a humidor?

1. Gather materials: You will need a wooden box (preferably cedar), a hygrometer, a humidifier, a sealant, and a saw and drill (if you need to make adjustments to the box).
2. Prepare the box: Sand down the wooden box to smooth out any rough edges and apply a sealant to the inside and outside of the box. Allow the sealant to dry completely.
3. Install the humidifier: Place the humidifier in the bottom of the box and secure it in place using a sealant.
4. Install the hygrometer: Drill a small hole in the lid of the box and insert the hygrometer. Secure it in place using a sealant.
5. Season the humidor: Before storing cigars, you need to “season” the humidor by adding a small amount of distilled water to the humidifier and leaving the lid open for 24 hours.
6. Store cigars: Once the humidor is seasoned, you can store cigars inside. Make sure to check the humidity levels regularly using the hygrometer to ensure they stay between 65-70%.
7. Enjoy: Your humidor is now ready to use. Store your cigars in it, and enjoy them at their best. Remember to check the humidity levels regularly and add water to the humidifier as needed.

How to store cigars without a humidor?

1. Ziplock bags: Place cigars in a ziplock bag and seal it tightly. Store the bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
2. Tupperware container: Place cigars in a Tupperware container with a tight-fitting lid. Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
3. Plastic container with a damp sponge: Place cigars in a plastic container with a damp sponge or a small piece of dampened cedar. Seal the container and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
4. Refrigerator: Place cigars in a plastic container or ziplock bag and store them in the refrigerator. This will help to preserve the cigars, but they should be removed from the fridge and allowed to acclimate to room temperature before smoking.
5. Cigar tube: Purchase a cigar tube, which is a small, airtight container that is designed to keep cigars fresh. It can be taken with you when you travel, keeping your cigars fresh and protected from damage.

It’s important to note that storing cigars without a humidor will not provide the optimal conditions for preservation, but these methods can help to prolong the life of your cigars until you can purchase a humidor.

How to set up a humidor?

To set up a humidor, you will need the following items:

1. A humidor (obviously)
2. A hygrometer to measure the humidity inside the humidor
3. A humidification device, such as a humidifier or a humidifying solution
4. Distilled water or propylene glycol solution (depending on the type of humidification device you choose)

Steps:

1. Season your humidor by wiping the inside with a damp cloth and leaving it open for a day or two to stabilize the humidity.
2. Calibrate your hygrometer by placing it in a Ziploc bag with a damp sponge or cloth for 24 hours. Adjust the hygrometer as necessary to ensure accurate readings.
3. Add your humidification device, whether it be a humidifier or a humidifying solution.
4. Place your cigars in the humidor and close it.
5. Check the humidity level inside the humidor using the hygrometer. The ideal humidity level for cigars is around 70%. If the humidity level is too low, add more distilled water or propylene glycol solution to your humidification device. If the humidity level is too high, leave the humidor open for a short time to allow some of the moisture to escape.

It is important to note that it will take a couple of days to a week to achieve the ideal humidity level, so be patient and keep an eye on the humidity level. It’s also important to note that you should store your cigars in the humidor and not add too many cigars at once as it can cause the humidity to drop.

How to build a humidor?

1. Gather materials: You will need a wooden box, a hygrometer, a humidifier, cedar lining, and a sealant.
2. Measure and cut: Measure the dimensions of your wooden box and cut the cedar lining to fit.
3. Line the box: Glue or nail the cedar lining to the inside of the box, making sure that the grain is running vertically.
4. Seal the box: Use a sealant to seal the seams and joints of the box to prevent air leaks.
5. Add the humidifier: Place the humidifier in the box and make sure it is working properly.
6. Calibrate the hygrometer: Calibrate the hygrometer using a salt test to ensure accurate humidity readings.
7. Season the humidor: Fill the humidor with distilled water and let it sit for a few days to allow the humidity to stabilize.
8. Add cigars: Once the humidity is stable, add your cigars and monitor the humidity levels regularly.
9. Maintenance: Keep the humidor clean and well-maintained to ensure the cigars stay fresh and flavorful.

How to use a humidor?

1. Purchase a humidor: Before you can use a humidor, you need to purchase one that is suitable for your needs. Consider the size, shape, and materials of the humidor to ensure it will meet your needs.
2. Season the humidor: Before storing cigars in your humidor, you will need to season it. This process involves adding moisture to the wood to ensure that it is properly humidified.
3. Calibrate the humidor: Once the humidor has been seasoned, you will need to calibrate it to ensure that it is maintaining the proper humidity levels. This can be done using a hygrometer, which is a device that measures humidity.
4. Add cigars: Once the humidor is properly seasoned and calibrated, you can add your cigars. Make sure to place them in the proper orientation and not overstuff the humidor.
5. Maintain the humidity: To ensure that your cigars are properly stored, you will need to maintain the humidity levels in your humidor. This can be done by adding distilled water or a humidifying solution to the humidor.
6. Monitor the cigars: Regularly check the cigars to ensure they are not drying out or becoming moldy. If you notice any issues, adjust the humidity levels or remove the cigars.
7. Clean the humidor: Regularly clean the humidor to remove any buildup of mold or bacteria. Use mild soap and water to clean the interior and exterior of the humidor.
8. Enjoy your cigars: Once your cigars have been properly stored in your humidor, you can enjoy them. Remember to keep the humidor closed when not in use to maintain the proper humidity levels.

How to lower humidor humidity?

1. Remove excess water from the humidor: If there is too much water in the humidor, it can cause the humidity to be too high. Remove any excess water from the humidor and make sure the humidifier is not overfilled.
2. Use a hygrometer: A hygrometer will help you monitor the humidity levels in the humidor. This will allow you to make adjustments as needed to keep the humidity at the desired level.
3. Adjust the humidifier: If the humidity is too high, you can adjust the humidifier to release less moisture into the humidor. You can also consider using a different type of humidifier that releases less moisture, such as a crystal humidifier.
4. Use a humidor seasoning packet: A humidor seasoning packet can help lower the humidity in a humidor. These packets contain a desiccant that absorbs excess moisture, bringing the humidity level down to a more desirable level.
5. Open the lid: Opening the lid of the humidor will allow some of the excess humidity to escape. Make sure to keep an eye on the humidity levels as you open and close the lid, and adjust the humidifier as needed.
6. Keep the humidor in a cool, dry place: Storing the humidor in a cool, dry place will help keep the humidity levels low. Avoid storing the humidor in a damp or humid area, as this can cause the humidity to rise.

How long do cigars last without a humidor?

How long do cigars last in a humidor?

How to keep cigars fresh without a humidor?

1. Use a Ziploc bag or vacuum sealer: Place your cigars in a Ziploc bag or vacuum sealer, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. This will help to keep the humidity level consistent and protect the cigars from the elements.
2. Use a damp sponge or cloth: Place a damp sponge or cloth in a plastic container or bag with your cigars. Make sure the sponge or cloth is not too wet, as too much moisture can damage the cigars.
3. Use a humidor bag: These are specially designed bags that come with a humidifying element to maintain a consistent humidity level. Simply place your cigars in the bag and seal it.
4. Keep cigars in a cool, dark place: Avoid storing your cigars in areas that are exposed to direct sunlight or heat. A cool, dark place such as a closet or drawer is ideal.
5. Rotate your cigars: If you don’t plan on smoking all of your cigars at once, be sure to rotate them every few weeks. This will prevent any one cigar from becoming too dry or too humid.
6. Use a cigar cooler: A cigar cooler is a portable device that helps to maintain the perfect humidity level for cigars. It’s perfect for keeping cigars fresh when traveling or for outdoor smoking.

How can you tell a good humidor?

1. Quality construction: A good humidor should be made of high-quality materials such as Spanish cedar or Honduran mahogany. It should also have tight seals and be well-crafted with no rough edges or imperfections.
2. Proper humidity control: A good humidor should have a reliable humidification system that can maintain a consistent humidity level of around 70%. It should also have a hygrometer to measure humidity levels.
3. Proper ventilation: A good humidor should have proper ventilation to allow for air circulation and prevent mold growth.
4. Capacity: A good humidor should have enough capacity to store your cigars without overcrowding them.
5. Aesthetics: A good humidor should be visually appealing and match your style and taste.
6. Brand reputation: A good humidor should be made by a reputable brand with a history of producing high-quality humidors.
7. Durability: A good humidor should be durable and able to withstand regular use without showing wear or damage.
8. Price: A good humidor should be reasonably priced for the features and quality it offers. It should not be overly expensive or too cheap.