So, you’ve picked up some cigars – maybe you grabbed a Burton Variety Pack to start exploring flavors. But now you’re wondering: How long are cigars good for? Do I need a humidor for cigars? Where should I store them?
Good news: keeping your cigars fresh isn’t complicated, but there are a few key things to know. Whether you have one cigar or a full box, this guide will help you understand the right way to store cigars so they stay fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy whenever you light up.
Cigars are like fine wine – they need the right environment to age properly. If stored correctly, cigars can last for years, even improving in flavor over time. But if you store them wrong, they can dry out, burn too fast, or taste bitter.
Here’s what cigars need to stay in peak condition:
Now, let’s go over the best ways to store cigars, depending on whether you have a humidor or not.
A humidor is the best way to store cigars long-term. So if you plan on building a collection or keeping cigars around for weeks (or longer), it’s worth investing in one. If you’re new to the cigar world and just dipping your toe in, it’s okay to hold off on a humidor purchase – for now.
A humidor is a specialized storage box that controls humidity to keep cigars fresh. Most use a cedar lining (which helps regulate moisture) and a humidification system (like a humidity pack or gel).
If you’re serious about cigars, a humidor is a must. But if you’re just getting started and don’t want to buy one yet, don’t worry – there are other storage options.
Burton Tip: For other cigar terms, check out our Cigar Terminology Guide for Beginners
If you’re new to cigars and don’t have a humidor yet, you still have solid options for keeping cigars fresh.
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to store cigars is by using a resealable plastic bag along with a humidity pack (65-72%) like Boveda packs or similar.
This method keeps cigars fresh for a few weeks and is a low-cost alternative to a humidor.
For a step up from a plastic bag, a plastic food container can work just like a humidor if you add a humidity pack inside. This option is inexpensive, easy to maintain, and great for short- or medium-term storage.
If you buy cigars in bulk, a sealed plastic cooler can work as a large humidor when paired with cedar lining and humidity packs. A coolidor is suitable for long-term storage and is more affordable than a high-end humidor.
Burton Tip: Never store cigars in the fridge or freezer. The low humidity will dry them out and ruin their flavor.
Even if you’re using a humidor, where you place it matters. Avoid direct sunlight, as heat and light dry out cigars. Keep your cigars in a room with consistent conditions without temperature swings (like near vents or windows).
As you’ve probably figured out, the shelf life of a cigar depends on how you store it:
If a cigar dries out, you can try to rehydrate it slowly, but it may never fully recover its original flavor. That’s why proper cigar storage is key.
If you’re still exploring cigar flavors and don’t have a humidor yet, a sampler pack is a great way to start. Burton Variety Packs include a mix of premium cigars, giving you a chance to find what you like before buying a full box.
Burton Bonus: For a limited time, when you buy a Burton Variety Pack, you’ll get a free lifetime Burton Value Membership (10% off every order!).
Have questions about storing cigars? Drop a comment below, and we’ll help you out!
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