What Is the Best Temperature for a Cigar Humidor?

If you’ve just purchased your first cigar humidor, or are thinking about getting a new one, you’re likely asking: what’s the best temperature for storing cigars?

Every cigar enthusiast, whether a seasoned collector or total novice, eventually faces the challenge of proper cigar storage, especially as their collection grows beyond what they can reasonably smoke in a few weeks.

Storing cigars at the right temperature and humidity is key to preserving their flavor and longevity. Get it right, and you’ll enjoy a well-aged cigar every time. Get it wrong, and you could open your humidor to find mold, dried-out cigars, or other common storage issues.

That’s why we created this guide—to help you set up and maintain your humidor for long-term cigar enjoyment. In this post we’ll cover:

Common storage problems cigar enthusiasts run into
The “70/70 rule” for the perfect humidor temperature and humidity
Smart tips for where to place your humidor and how to maintain consistent conditions

Master these fundamentals, and you’ll be well on your way to preserving your collection for many months (and years) to come.

Common Problems with Cigar Storage

Storing your cigars in a cabinet or drawer can lead to several potential problems, such as:

Loss of flavor
Shortened lifespan
Damage to the cigar leaves

And these issues aren’t limited to storing cigars outside of a humidor, they can also occur inside the humidor if it’s not properly set up and maintained. But don’t worry, we’ll walk you through how to avoid these issues later in the guide. Keep reading to ensure your collection stays in the perfect condition.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are signs that your cigars are stored in an environment that’s too humid. This could be due to your climate, living near water, or a humidor that’s not properly set up. No matter the reason, excess moisture can cause problems fast.

Cigars need some humidity to stay fresh, but too much can lead to:

Fuzzy growth on your cigars or their box
A musty smell when you open the humidor
Discoloration on the wrappers
A bad taste when smoking

Tobacco Beetles

Tobacco beetles are every cigar lover’s worst nightmare. These tiny pests thrive in warm temperatures above 74°F and can quickly ruin your collection.

They lay eggs inside tobacco leaves, and when it gets too warm, the eggs hatch. The larvae then eat through your cigars.

They spread fast, too. One infestation can ruin an entire collection in no time. To prevent this, keep your humidor between 68°F and 70°F.

Flavor Loss

Like spices or dried herbs, cigars can lose their flavor and aroma over time if they aren’t stored properly.

Temperature extremes play a big role in this. High heat can break down the essential oils in tobacco that give cigars their signature flavor, while freezing temperatures can cause ice crystals to form, drying them out and making them brittle.

Even without obvious damage like mold or beetles, poor storage can slowly strip cigars of what makes them special. The key is keeping a stable, moderate environment to protect their quality.

The 70/70 Rule for Perfect Humidor Settings

To avoid the issues described above, just follow one simple rule when setting up your humidor: the 70/70 rule.

Basically, this means keeping your humidor at 70 degrees Fahrenheit with 70% humidity. This mimics the natural climate where premium cigars are made (think warm, humid Caribbean air with gentle coastal breezes).

All Newair units come equipped with compressors to maintain the ideal temperature and humidity levels for cigar storage. These systems precisely control the environment inside your humidor, so you can lock in that 70-degree sweet spot with ease.

Today’s advanced humidors also include features that enhance your cigar experience, such as:

Spanish cedar shelves to bring out and protect the flavor of cigars
Air circulation systems to prevent mold and mildew from forming
Large water reservoirs that can go a week or more without filling
Built-in or freestanding designs, similar to beverage fridges
Digital controls with LED displays for easy adjustments
Drawers and shelves for storing both boxes and individual cigars
Interior lighting to showcase your collection
Low noise levels, so the humidor can be used in any room of the house

Tips for Setting Up Your Humidor Properly

To get the most out of your humidor, and keep your cigars in perfect condition, it’s important to set it up correctly and be mindful of where it is placed. A few smart adjustments can go a long way in how well your humidor performs, especially as the seasons change.

Consider Your Climate

Is your climate mild and steady year round, like Los Angeles, or does it swing between extremes, like Minneapolis? In areas with stable weather, your humidor won’t need much adjusting. But if you experience extreme heat or cold throughout the year, you may need to tweak your settings occasionally to keep your cigars safe.

Keep it Out of Direct Sunlight

Avoid placing your humidor in direct sunlight. Sun exposure can cause temperature spikes that damage the natural oils and flavor of your cigars. Bright areas in your home, office, or man cave might look great, but they may be too warm for proper cigar storage.

Stay Clear of Heating and Cooling Vents

Position your humidor away from HVAC vents. Too much hot or cold air from heating and cooling systems can make it difficult for your humidor to regulate temperature and humidity. If you also use a humidifier or dehumidifier in the room, factor that into your setup and make adjustments as needed.

Choose a Cooler Spot in Hot Climates

If you live in a hot climate, try placing your humidor in a cooler area of your home, such as your basement. The lower temperatures can help your humidor maintain a more stable environment. Just be sure to monitor for high humidity in the summer or chilly temperatures in the winter.

Add an Ice Pack During Extreme Heat

When temperatures soar, your humidor might struggle to stay cool. To give it a little help, place an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) on top of the unit during a heatwave. This can provide extra cooling power without damaging the cigars inside.

Turn Off Cooling in Cold Weather

If you’re in a colder region like the Rockies or the Upper Midwest, your humidor may not need active cooling during the winter months, especially if it’s placed in a basement or garage. In these conditions, you might consider turning off the cooling system temporarily to avoid over-chilling your cigars.

But with select Newair models, you don’t have to worry about this. These humidors come equipped with both cooling and heating capabilities, an advanced, premium feature not found in most units:

These models automatically maintain stable conditions year-round, so your cigars stay protected without the guesswork.

Shop Newair’s Selection of Humidors for Cigar Lovers

If you’re still shopping for a cigar humidor, Newair offers a wide range of models to choose from. Whether you’re just starting your collection or you’re a seasoned aficionado, we’ve got the perfect humidor for you. And for a limited time, select models are 20% off for Father’s Day, making it the perfect time to upgrade or gift one.

We also carry a variety of compact appliances for entertaining, like slushie machines, wine fridges, outdoor misting fans, and portable ice makers. Prefer your cigar with a side of whisky? Check out our whisky ball ice maker that pairs perfectly with your favorite bourbon or single malt.

Shop online with confidence, thanks to fast shipping, stress-free returns, and the assurance of buying from a US-based company.

And don’t forget to register your new humidor or appliance to unlock our top-tier warranty coverage and customer support. We’re here to help you get the most out of every Newair product.

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