If you’re looking to care for your cigars until the next celebration or waiting to gift a couple to a friend, you’ll need the best desktop humidor. Humidors are designed to maintain the ideal humidity for storing your cigars to imitate the climate which the tobacco originates from. Without a humidor (or if you buy a cheap one), your cigars will most likely only last a couple of weeks depending on the climate. No one wants to come back to molded or bitter cigars, which is why it’s important to get a quality humidor to keep your cigars at optimum taste levels. Below, we go over what to look for in a humidor and review some products in detail to help you decide which is the best cigar humidor for you.
Best Desktop Humidors on 5th September 2025: Comparison Table
[table id=24 /]1. Diamond Crown St. James Series The Alexander – Best High-End Desktop Humidor
A notable part of the Diamond Crown St. James Series, the Alexander is a graceful humidor with luxurious features. Covered in an exotic black ebony veneer, this product has a mysterious aura that adds greatly to its style. What is more, this rare wood casing has unique black accents that immediately convey a sense of exoticism? As a result, Alexander can ride a fine line between elegance and edginess.
Style
This style is further expressed through the humidor’s glossy high gloss finish. Even more, this humidor boasts beautiful silver handles and a silver lock and key set. The result is a simple yet captivating design that would not look out of place in an elegant office or cigar room.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Alexander features a Diamond Crown proprietary humidification system that uses IMAS technology to regulate itself to maintain a consistent level of humidity for prolonged periods.
Other Features
Apart from its main humidifying system, Alexander employs a Lattice aeration rack that guarantees freshness and ventilation at all times. To guarantee precision and efficiency, Alexander also includes a digital hygrometer that was constructed especially to work with its specifications. Being able to hold up to 90 cigars at the same time, this humidor needs very specific humidity settings to work optimally.
Overall
Taking everything into consideration, it can be said that Alexander is a high-end product that does everything right. Apart from looking fantastically unique despite its minimalist design, this humidor offers the highest quality in humidification technology. Reliable and precise, its humidification system can be trusted to keep your most precious cigar collections in optimal condition for prolonged periods. Meanwhile, its aeration system is capable of reliably maintaining the inside of the humidor fresh, preventing mold, tobacco beetles, and other pests from appearing.
- Made of high-quality, rare wood.
- Proprietary humidification system with IMAS.
- Quadrant hinges.
- Lattice aeration rack.
- Difficult to clean.
2. Daniel Marshall Ambiente Humidor – Best Luxury Desktop Humidor
Although simple in its design, the Daniel Marshall Ambiente Humidor has an imposing presence that is difficult to ignore. Often referred to as “the Rolls Royce of humidors”, this is certainly a luxury item that only serious cigar enthusiasts will fully appreciate.
Style
The Daniel Marshall Ambiente Humidor’s jet black exterior is highlighted by a gold plated lock and key set that, although minimal, has a way of catching your eye. Meanwhile, internally, it presents a warm natural wood tone that is truly comforting. Lined with Spanish cedar of the highest quality available on the market, the Daniel Marshall Ambiente Humidor is both pleasant to look at and efficient in maintaining humidity.
Performance
Meticulously handcrafted, the Daniel Marshall Ambiente Humidor features a top-level construction that makes its handling a smooth and delightful experience. Being able to store up to 65 cigars, the humidor is certainly spacious enough for most cigar collectors and enthusiasts. Meanwhile, to keep your cigar collection nice and fresh for as long as you need, the Daniel Marshall Ambiente employs a state-of-the-art humidification system.
Other Features
In addition to the main humidifying mechanism, the humidifier features a self-regulating hydration system that greatly improves its efficiency over extended periods. What is more, its Lattice aeration rack can keep everything inside it nice and fresh for months at a time.
Overall
With everything on the table, it can be firmly stated that the Daniel Marshall Ambiente Humidor is one of the most notable products of its kind. It is made of materials of the highest quality both externally and internally. What is more, its construction is expert, particularly taking into consideration that it’s fully done by hand. Taking all this into consideration, the humidor’s elevated price suddenly seems very reasonable. This notion is confirmed after considering that the Daniel Marshall Ambiente Humidor comes with double divers, a double-sized foam pack, and a high-quality digital thermometer and hygrometer set attached to the lid.
- Spanish cedar interior lining.
- Includes a double-sized foam pack.
- Uses Daniel Marshall’s proprietary humidification system.
- Self-regulating hydration.
- Includes high-quality thermometer and hygrometer set.
- Luxurious jet black finish.
- Its glossy finish fades somewhat over time.
3. Deauville 100 Cigar Humidor – Best Desktop Humidor Under $200
Featuring a classic design and sturdy construction, the Deauville 100 Cigar Humidor is a reliable, efficient, and elegant device that will undoubtedly help maintain your cigar collection fresh and delicious for extended periods. In addition to its high-quality construction and efficient design, this humidor box stands out due to its incredible capacity. Being able to hold between 100 and 150 cigars at a single time, it is likely one of the humidors with the most capacity on the market.
More Space For Nice Humidor!
Despite holding as many cigars as it does, however, this product still has enough space to place a hygrometer, a removable tray, and two dividers that can help organize your collection according to characteristics such as brand, type, or nationality of origin. In terms of material quality, the Deauville 100 Cigar Humidor is up there with the best humidors on the market. It lines with Spanish cedar, a material that is ideal for maintaining humidity and temperature levels at optimal levels. Spanish cedar lining dries with a premium kiln to improve protection and increase durability.

Seth Lee
Cigar Expert
Pro Tip: Externally, the Deauville 100 Cigar Humidor features a maple wood finish that gives it a nice, solid feel and a healthy amount of weight. The lid features a tobacco leaf inlay that is as beautiful as it is simple for helping take its looks to the next level of elegance.
Weight? Wait…
Most of the complaints and negative reviews lobbed at this product have to do with its weight. At six pounds, it certainly is not the lightest humidor on the market. However, considering the humidor is not meant to be carried from one place to another, this piece of criticism should take with a grain of salt. At any rate, this humidor features two handles that make it easier to transport whenever it is necessary to do so. An aspect of this product that most expert cigar enthusiasts will surely appreciate is that it includes a high-quality hygrometer. This device is made of glass and features a brass frame. Unlike most hygrometers that are included with a humidor, this is a well-crafted, efficient, and accurate device that you will not need to replace unless you feel you need the precision of a digital hygrometer (as some of the most passionate cigar enthusiasts do).
Verdict
While it is not as complex and extravagant as other such products on the market, the Deauville 100 Cigar Humidor is an efficient, durable, and reliable product that will surely increase the lifespan of your cigars. Despite being very straightforward, it is also elegant and expensive-looking enough not to be out of place in the most sumptuous cigar room, a fact that is helped by the beautiful tobacco leaf inlay featured on the lid of the box.
- Includes high-quality hygrometer.
- Holds between 100 and 150 cigars.
- Hidden hinges.
- Gold-plated lock and key.
- Beautiful tobacco leaf inlay.
- Somewhat heavy.
- It’s not divided into enough compartments.
4. Quality Importers – Best Budget Desktop Humidor
If you have a decent cigar collection, this humidor might be useful since it can hold 25 to 50 cigars. Because it’s a desktop humidor, there’s a clear glass window on the top panel so that you can see your collection without having to open the lid, affecting the humidity levels. For cigars that have different sizes or flavors, the humidor has one internal divider to organize and separate them. The analog hygrometer makes it rather easy to monitor the humidity level without opening the humidor. As for aesthetics, the brass hygrometer ring and gold-plated corner hardware give the humidor a simple yet elegant design. Its premium kiln-dried Spanish cedar lining helps retain moisture and aroma while keeping your cigars from getting infested by tobacco beetles. On the front of the humidor is a clasp lock while the interior has a scratch-resistant felt-lined bottom. While this humidor isn’t anything fancy, it offers just enough to keep any novice or experienced cigar smoker’s cigar collection fresh and ready to smoke anytime. Its classic look makes it a nice addition to any home office or living room, and you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank. This is a small humidor without any horizontal dividers, so you have to stack your cigars to fit them all inside. With this, this humidor may not be ideal if you have a rather large cigar collection and worry about cross-flavor contamination.
Verdict
Overall, this desktop humidor is highly ideal if you’re on a tight budget but don’t want to sacrifice quality. It doesn’t have as many features as more high-end models, but it’s simple enough to use and can keep your cigars fresh and flavorful once properly seasoned and calibrated.
- Ideal for small collections
- One divider to organize cigars by size, flavor, or country of origin
- Large top-panel window allows you to see inside without opening lid
- Minor quality control issues such as small chips and lids not closing completely
- Cigars need to be stacked to fit, possible cross flavor contamination
- Seasoning can be tricky for novices
5. Prestige Import Group 7 Drawer Desk Top Cigar Humidor – Most Elegant Cigar Humidor Cabinet
Elegant and traditionally styled, this cigar humidor cabinet can help you keep your cigars humidified and secure. It is made of Spanish cedarwood, and it has a beautiful cherry lacquer finish. To keep the cigars protected, it has seven drawers pull-out drawers, and a swing door.
Elegance and Functionality
Perhaps what is most notable about this cabinet by Prestige Import Group is its balance between elegance and functionality. On the outside, it looks like an elegant piece of furniture styled in a traditional, refined manner. On the inside, however, it is a state-of-the-art device for keeping your cigars humidified and delicious. To this end, it uses seven different humidifiers and a built-in hygrometer.
Lock and Key
As previously mentioned, to keep your cigars secure, this humidor cabinet features a swing door and seven different pull-out drawers. To ensure no one will get into your collection without permission, the cabinet also has a lock that is impossible to crack without the right key.
Overall
With everything on the table, it is easy to admit that this product by Prestige Import Group is of superior quality. Apart from being elegant and stylish, it is very effective at keeping up to 210 cigars in seven pull-out drawers perfectly humidified. What is more, it is also very secure due to its high-security lock.
- Elegant and stylish.
- Features high-security lock.
- Features seven separate humidifiers.
- Does not allow displaying your cigar collection.
- The built-in hygrometer is analog and not of very good quality.
6. Prestige Import Group Chalet Cherry – Best Medium Humidor
The Prestige Import Group Chalet Cherry cigar humidor can hold anywhere from 25 to 50 cigars. This genuine Spanish cedar-lined humidor is roomy enough for anyone to store their small to medium cigar collection and won’t alter the flavors of the cigars. The rich Cherry finish also makes it a worthy piece to have in your executive office on your desk or on top of the chimney shelf in your living room. The humidor includes an internal humidifier and hygrometer. The humidifier helps to maintain a constant source of moisture to keep your cigars at an ideal humidity level. Distilled water or humidity packs work best to keep your cigars fresh. The hygrometer allows you to easily season and calibrate the humidor to keep a certain level of humidity so your cigars won’t mold or get infested with pesky beetles. Its internal solid brass locking hinges secure your cigars with an airtight seal, and if you wish to divide your cigars by flavor and size, the humidor comes with an internal and adjustable divider. It’s also equipped with a scratch-resistant felt bottom to keep both your cigars and the humidor itself intact for years.

Seth Lee
Cigar Expert
Pro Tip: If you're a novice cigar smoker looking for a humidor that does the job without any fancy bells and whistles, then this humidor may be ideal for your collection. It may not have as many beneficial features compared to more expensive humidors, but it can certainly preserve the flavor and shape of your cigars as long as you adjust the humidity correctly.
Verdict
Ultimately, this humidor can be of great use to those with a moderate-sized cigar collection without having to go over your budget. It can be used by either new cigar smokers or experienced ones since it’s simple to use and has an attractive and elegant dark cherry exterior.
- Lined with genuine Spanish cedar to better preserve flavor
- Included hygrometer and humidifier
- Internal solid brass locking hinges and adjustable divider
- No clear glass top panel
- Tends to easily chip and scratch
- No instructions included may be difficult to figure out for the non-experienced
7. Scorch Torch 25-50 with Humidifier – Best in Category
Great for your office desktop or on top of your nightstand, this cherry humidor can fit 18-25 cigars horizontally and 50-73 cigars vertically (depending on size). It’s properly lined with Spanish cedar for keeping the flavor of your cigars fresh and it also comes with a humidifier and hygrometer. The hygrometer is set up on the outside and sports a brass ring around it to further enhance the humidor’s classy appearance. A handy instruction manual is included with the humidor to help new cigar smokers calibrate and season it to maintain the ideal level of humidity and to prevent their cigars from molding or turning bitter. If you like to separate your cigars according to their country of origin, flavor, or size, it comes with an easily adjustable cedar divider. The clear top panel allows you to see your cigars without having to open the lid, which can be a big bonus for those that worry about throwing off the humidity levels by opening the humidor too often. Although, it should be known that the clear panel is plastic, not glass. This may not be a huge concern to novices but can be a deal-breaker for more avid cigar smokers. The Scorch Torch can be a great starter humidor for those that are new to smoking cigars but can’t try out their entire collection all at once. It fits quite a lot of cigars which is good if you have a rather big assortment, but if you don’t want to risk cross-flavor contamination, it may be best to consider a large humidor. While the clear panel is plastic and not glass, the overall build quality and appearance of this humidor are generally praised.
Verdict
The few issues that are commonly mentioned are its inconsistent humidity readings, difficulty in maintaining humidity levels, and constant monitoring. The hygrometer tends to be inaccurate at times but is easily adjustable. Although, it never seems to stay adjusted which means it may need to be checked on now and then. You can always put a shot glass filled with distilled water inside the humidor to provide enough moisture to keep your cigars from drying out.
- Warm and attractive cherry wood finish
- Fits 25 cigars horizontally or 50-73 vertically
- High-quality build and ideal for starters
- The clear top panel is plastic, not glass
- Humidity readings on hygrometer tend to be inconsistent
- Needs constant monitoring to maintain humidity levels
8. Case Elegance Cherry Finish – Best Magnetically Sealed Humidor
This simplistic yet elegant humidor is entirely coated with high-quality 100% Spanish cedar wood on the inside and perimeter coaming seal. The Spanish cedar ensures that moisture is maintained within the humidor which extends the life of your cigars and keeps them fresh. For an airtight seal to fully protect your cigars from drying out and getting molded, the fully sealed exterior surface and magnetic enclosure keep the inside at an ideal humidity level. Typically, this humidity is maintained at a 65-75% threshold for optimal cigar flavor. The humidor additionally comes with a pre-calibrated hygrometer and an ideal-sized humidifier to make maintaining moisture easy. Moreover, there is a crystal gel humidifier included, great for this price! You can fit up to 25 cigars in this humidor, making it a decent size for beginner cigar smokers or slightly more experienced smokers. Its size is also small enough so that you can take it anywhere for those special occasions or if you’re planning to give it as a gift. The cherry hues on this humidor change depending on how much light is in the environment, thus it ranges from bright red indirect light to deep red in dimmer light. You won’t have to worry about spending top dollar to get this humidor, and it’s very easy to use for both novices and experienced cigar aficionados alike. The hygrometer is simple to adjust and the overall look is clean and polished so that you can place it anywhere in your home. It’s also packaged rather well so it’ll arrive at you without little to no scratches or chips.
Verdict
The Case Elegance humidor, unfortunately, doesn’t have a glass top panel so you’ll have to open the lid to view your cigars which has the possibility of affecting the humidity levels. The hygrometer is also said to be a bit off at times, so it’s important to check that you calibrated and seasoned the humidor correctly to prevent your cigars from drying out or suffering a tobacco beetle infestation.
- Portable and able to fit 25 cigars
- Magnetic closure keeps humidor airtight and cigars fresh
- Lined with 100% Spanish cedar wood to extend cigar life
- No glass top panel for clear view of cigars
- Hygrometer is occasionally inaccurate
9. Volenx Cigar Humidor Hold – Best Small-Sized Humidor
Able to hold 15 to 20 cigars vertically (a little more if you have various sizes), this small desktop humidor is lined with genuine Spanish cedar to preserve your small to the medium collection so that flavor and quality don’t suffer. The humidor itself is made of high-quality cedar wood with a dark cherry finish making it attractive enough to place in your home office or living room. The glass top panel lets you see all of your cigars at once without having to open the lid and risk affecting the humidity levels inside. Additionally, the humidor comes with a built-in hygrometer and a humidifier, both of which help to maintain the ideal temperature and moisture level so that your cigars don’t turn bitter, dry out, or burn out mid-smoke.

Seth Lee
Cigar Expert
Pro Tip: If you like to organize your cigars by tobacco type, flavor, or size, the humidor comes with a removable and adjustable divider. This can come in handy for those who are concerned with cross-flavor contamination. The seal on this humidor is soft enough to the point where you don't have to force it open but also won't open if tilted upside down.
Overall
Getting this humidor won’t leave your wallet empty and is simple to use among cigar-smoking novices and experts. It may not have enough room inside for those with larger collections. Because you have to stack your cigars to fit a little less than two dozen, it’s also not recommended if you like to keep different cigars separate to avoid transferring flavors. One divider might not be enough for those who have a large variety they’d like to keep separate.
- The glass top panel allows for convenient viewing of cigars
- Includes removable and adjustable divider
- Able to fit 15-20 cigars, ideal for small to medium assortment
- Humidor interior comes really dry, needs moisture source before use
- Lid has slight friction over the cedar gasket
- Too small for more experienced cigar smokers
Best Desktop Humidors – Buyer’s Guide
No matter the size of your collection, it’s important to have a cigar humidor to keep your cigars fresh, flavorful, and intact. A humidor is essentially an airtight container that is equipped with a humidifier that keeps the cigars in an ideal climate to prevent them from drying out. Before buying a humidor, there are a few different factors to look out for to make sure your collection is stored properly.
Sizes
Small humidors are ideal for those who have just started to smoke cigars and don’t have a relatively large assortment yet. Usually, you can fit around 25-50 depending on the size of the cigars themselves and whether or not you’re choosing to stack them. Small humidors can fit right on top of your desk, on your nightstand, in that secret compartment in your closet, or on top of your chimney shelf. They’re also great if you don’t have that big of a budget. You most likely won’t break the bank buying a small humidor but you also won’t leave out quality if you get one made from the right material. Most nice humidors of this small size typically cost around $25 to $50. Travel humidors are considered small humidors that you can take with you on the road. Some are meant to hold around 10 cigars, but some can hold up to around 40. For maximum protection, they’re built with a hard shell exterior and have a soft foam interior so your cigars stay intact if they roll around inside. Depending on size, these can be anywhere from $20 to $70. Medium humidors hold a lot more than small ones, for while most small humidors have a max capacity of around 50 cigars, medium-sized humidors can fit between 50 and 150 cigars. These usually have a removable tray so that you can stack your cigars and still be able to reach other ones at the bottom. You can probably expect to spend around $60 to $180 on a good-quality medium-sized humidor. Large humidors aren’t like small or medium humidors since they’re not designed as chests you can easily place on your desk or in your living room. These large humidors can store rather huge collections of 300 to a few thousand cigars. They’re meant to be like another piece of furniture because of their large size, and the great thing about them is you can choose from many styles, shapes, and designs. Those with an expansive collection of cigars most commonly opt for the “tower” style since it’s one of the only large humidors that can hold the biggest amount of cigars. You should be ready to make quite a big investment since these range from anywhere between $200 to $3000. Cigar fridges are a popular way to store cigars and the idea originates from when someone decided to transform a wine fridge into a humidor. Cigar fridges are also known as cigar coolers or wineador, and they come in many different styles and designs. They typically have built-in fans to help the humidity inside circulate while the fridge itself makes sure the temperature doesn’t exceed a certain level. Cigar fridges are usually smaller in size compared to large humidors, so you’re probably looking at around $200 to $450 for a nicely built one.
Features to Look For
When deciding upon a humidor, make sure it has an airtight seal that passes the “dollar bill test,” a Spanish cedar interior, a proper humidifier, and a consistent and accurate hygrometer.
Does it Have an Airtight Seal?
Humidors keep the interior at an ideal climate for your cigars by absorbing and maintaining a set humidity level from either a humidifier pack, humidity tubes, or even a shot glass full of distilled water. If your humidor has even the slightest bit of air from the outside, moisture will escape which will result in it having an unstable humidity level. Your cigars will then dry out and they’ll taste bitter when you try to smoke them. Check my guide about leaking problems. There are a couple of ways to check if your humidor has an airtight seal. You can try the “dollar bill” test where you place half of a dollar inside the humidor, close the lid, and see if the humidor pulls along when you pull the dollar. If you can pull the dollar through without the humidor following, then it doesn’t have an airtight seal. You can also place a small flashlight inside the humidor, close the lid, and then check if any light is escaping. If you can see obvious cracks of light between the lid and the body, then the seal isn’t airtight.
Does it Have a Spanish Cedar Interior?
A lot of the highest-quality humidors are made with a Spanish cedar interior. This type of wood is the most recommended and sought because of its great ability to absorb and retain moisture. It’s also highly effective in preventing tobacco beetles from infesting your cigars and multiplying inside your humidor. For travel humidors, look for ones that have at least a partial Spanish cedar lining since it’s a lot more effective at retaining moisture, especially if you’re going to be traveling to different places with different climates.
Accurate Hygrometers
Almost all humidors have a hygrometer that measures and displays the humidity level inside. These are used when you’re seasoning your humidor to a specific humidity level (which is usually 65-73%) and need to watch that it maintains that level. Some are pre-calibrated while some need to be manually set up, but it’s always safe to calibrate your humidor yourself.
Humidifier
Humidors need to have a humidifier inside to have a source of moisture to keep your cigars from drying out and turning bitter and unpleasant. Some humidors have pre-installed humidifiers but some don’t come with any source of moisture at all. Humidifiers need to be resupplied over time, so it’s best to keep track of how fast the humidifier runs out of moisture and to have a sufficient supply of humidity packs or distilled water at the ready.
Information about humidors
1. About Combination Cigar and Wine Coolers
Few things go together better than a good cigar and a nice glass of wine. Amazingly, some manufacturers have had the great idea of combining a wine cooler and a cigar humidor in one single, convenient product. Combination cigar and wine coolers are perfect for man caves, wine bars, and more. Using separate compartments, they can keep your wine at the perfect temperature while maintaining your cigars nice and moist. Typically, these products feature adjustable thermostats with a temperature range for both the cooler and the humidor zones. At the same time, they may feature useful accessories such as a humidity tray and a hygrometer.
2. How to Get Optimal Humidity and Temperature in Your Humidor? The 70/70 Rule
Typically, right after manufacturing, cigars have a moisture level that is between 14 and 17 percent. To keep them in the best condition possible, you need to maintain this level of humidity in your cigars until it is time to smoke them. There are various tips for achieving this. However, there is an easy way to ensure that your humidor has the right amount of humidity and temperature. The rule of thumb for keeping your cigars in optimal condition is known as the 70/70 rule. Simply put, the rule goes that you should keep your humidor at 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 70 percent relative humidity. By keeping these conditions stably and continually, you will extend the lifespan of your cigars while maintaining their aroma and flavor. As a result, even if you keep your cigars stored for long periods, you can stop worrying about problems such as mold and insect damage. Additionally, following this rule will greatly increase the lifespan of your cigar collection.
3. Humidor Quality Criteria
As previously mentioned, a good humidor should be able to maintain the temperature at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. At the same time, it should keep its internal humidity at around 70 percent relative humidity. However, there are other criteria that a humidor needs to meet to be considered a high-quality product. • An adequate humidification system: Because their main purpose is to maintain cigars humid, humidors rely very heavily on a humidification system. To that end, active electronic humidification systems are the most efficient. However, there are passive humidifiers that do the job well, particularly those that are polymer-based. At any rate, try to avoid sponge-based humidification systems as they are the least efficient. • A high-quality interior lining: Without a doubt, Spanish cedar is the best material to make a humidor’s interior lining. The reason for this is that the material absorbs humidity and maintains temperature for prolonged periods. Apart from its quality, the thickness of the Spanish cedar wood is critical. Anything between 3 and 5 millimeters will do the job just fine. • An efficient air circulation system: To prevent problems such as mold, a humidor must have an efficient air circulation system. Both the construction of the humidor and the design of its tray should allow free air circulation everywhere in the humidor. It should be noted, however, that correct air circulation does not depend exclusively on the construction of the humidor. The room you place it in needs to be fresh and well-ventilated as well. • A solid construction: Of course, the humidor’s construction should be solid and durable, preventing it from falling apart. A well-constructed humidor should last what is essentially a lifetime. Hinges constitute an important(and often overlooked) part of the construction. Make sure that they are low-friction and made of high-quality metal. Additionally, look for quadrant hinges as this is the most durable and efficient kind. • An accurate hygrometer: A hygrometer is an important tool that is capable of measuring the humidity in the air or gas. As such, it can help you monitor the right level of humidity in your humidor at all times. If possible, go for a hygrometer that uses a hair mechanism instead of a metal spring mechanism. Apart from being more precise, hygrometers that use a hair mechanism are more durable than their metal spring mechanism counterpart. • A strong humidor corpus: Make sure to look at the strength of a humidor’s wooden corpus before buying it. Because it improves the isolation of the humidor, a strong corpus is an important part of the device. • A high-quality finish: Finally, a good humidor should have quality lacquer and a refined finish. While this will not affect the functioning of the humidor, it will make it more visually pleasant and elegant.
4. Maximum Cigar Storage Time
Theoretically, under the right conditions, cigars can be kept in a humidor for an unlimited period. Aged high-quality premium cigars are cherished due to the special flavor they develop after several years in storage. For this to work, however, the humidor that the cigars are stored in has to be set at a constant relative humidity of around 70 percent. Additionally, the humidor should have an adequate and efficient air circulation system.
5. Troubleshooting Your Humidor
5.1 How to Fight and Remove Mold
Simply put, mold is a type of fungus that grows as thread-like multicellular structures. Almost inevitably, mold forms in spots where heat, moisture, and organic material combine. Considering how destructive mold can be, this is not a good thing at all. Sadly, the three conditions for the growth of mold exist in a cigar humidor. Heat and moisture are essential for maintaining the organic material that cigars are made of. However, if you go even a little bit overboard with heat and humidity, mold may form. On the other hand, if you don’t provide enough moisture and heat, your cigars may dry out and become stale. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to prevent the formation of mold in your humidor.

Seth Lee
Cigar Expert
Pro Tip: Before taking action, it's important to know that mold spores are everywhere around us. However, they are perfectly harmless as long as the right conditions for their development are not met. As previously mentioned, these conditions involve plenty of heat, a lot of humidity, and a good amount of organic material. To avoid this from happening, you can limit the heat of your humidor to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, the humidity should be at a maximum of 72 percent.
5.2 How to Prevent Tobacco Beetles
Even more damaging to your cigars than mold is the tobacco beetle. Terrifyingly, an infestation of these bugs can turn your beloved collection to shreds in a matter of days. As harmful as they are, though, tobacco beetles can be prevented and, given the case, eliminated. Tobacco beetles are born in your humidor from eggs that are hidden in new cigars. Sadly, even the best cigar manufacturers can’t prevent this from happening from time to time. Luckily, only a few beetle eggs are likely to be hidden in a contaminated cigar. Consequently, checking your collection periodically can help you catch the first few, preventing them from reproducing and forming an infestation. By checking your humidor every once in a while, you can ensure that your collection will be safe. At this point, you might be wondering how to tell if these pests have already started to break out in your collection of cigars. Outside of actually dismantling one of your cigars to see whether you find the insects inside it, the best thing you can do is check for tobacco dust that should not be there. If unfortunately, your humidor has already been compromised, there are a few things you can do. However, by far, the most effective solution is to freeze the tobacco beetles. To freeze tobacco beetles out of your humidor and cigar collection, go through the following steps. First, remove all the cigars from the humidor. Next, place them inside Ziploc bags. If you want to avoid freezer burn, you may double bag them. In continuation, seal the bags very tightly. Once you have done that, put the Ziploc gas in the fridge for 24 hours straight. After that, it is time to transfer the bags to the freezer. Even if it may seem like much, leave the bags in the freezer for three whole days. After going through all the previously mentioned steps, transfer the bags back to the fridge, leaving them for 24 hours. This is an important step because it eases the transition for the cigars, preventing them from cracking. Finally, you are ready to place the cigar back in the humidor.
5.3 The Humidity in the Humidor is Too Low
The steps you need to take in the case that the humidity in your humidor is too low are the following. First, ensure that the hygrometer has been correctly calibrated. The best way to calibrate a hygrometer is using the salt solution method. Additionally, ensure that it has been filled with the appropriate propylene glycol solution. Finally, make sure that the interior of the humidor has been sufficiently moistened at first use. When measuring the results, take into account that a decrease in the humidity of the humidor after putting dry cigars inside is perfectly normal.
5.4 The Humidity in the Humidor is Too High
Typically, a humidor should not exceed 75% humidity. If yours does, you need to take a few measures. First, open the humidor and leave it open for a few hours. After you do this, the humidity level will have fallen. Measure the humidity and, if necessary, repeat the process a few times in the following days. If this does not work, check the humidor’s humidification system. Perhaps it requires less water to function properly. Alternatively, you can replace the humidifier with a smaller model.
5.5 The Humidor is Bleeding Resin
Being made of Spanish cedar wood, over time, a humidor can form resin on its surface. In particular, this occurs when the wood has not been thoroughly dried before the manufacturing process of the humidor begins. This resin is sticky and smelly, and it can only be removed using certain substances and tools. While this resin does not directly affect the quality of the cigars, it can stain their exterior and hinder the smoking experience. Initially, take the cigars out of the humidor. Next, clean the resin using acetone. After that, the spots where the resin formed need to be treated with a piece of fine-grained sandpaper. This process should be repeated two or three times, especially if the lining is made of thick cedar. Once that has been accomplished, open the humidor and leave it to ventilate for a few hours. Finally, put the cigars back in the humidor.
5.6 Reviving dry cigars
Dry cigars can be revived as long as their wrapper has not cracked. Before attempting to do this, be aware that the process is not an immediate one. The process can take weeks and even months. To revive a cigar, you will need to use a humidor. After emptying its contents, use a piece of cloth that is moist to wipe its walls, making sure every inch is covered. Apart from helping you revive your cigars, this will prevent the proliferation of mold or bugs. Next, refill the humidor’s humidifier using distilled water. At this point, you are ready to put the dry cigars in the humidor.
5.7 Humidor Smells
Sometimes, your humidor can catch a smell, particularly when you store cigars with a strong scent for an extended period. As a first effort, you may attempt to air it out by leaving it open for a few days. Sometimes, this does the trick just fine. However, it may not work on the first try. At this point, if you see a light at the end of the tunnel, you may try leaving it out for a few more days. If this does not work, wipe down the inside of the humidor using isopropyl alcohol or denatured alcohol. Try to use as little as possible, however, as these substances are strong and can damage the wood if used excessively. Leave the humidor to dry for a few hours. In the case that this does not work either, you can use baking soda. Simply fill the humidor with it, close it and leave it be for about a week. After that, empty the humidor and wipe it down to clean it. Hopefully, one of the previously described steps will help remove the annoying smell from your humidor. However, if it does not, there is one last option: A glass of brandy or whiskey. Simply rub the liquid on the interior walls of the humidor, making sure they get nice and moist. The only drawback of this technique is that your humidor will then have the smell of the alcoholic beverage for some time. However, this is not a big problem as many people enjoy it. Some people put a few drops of whiskey or brandy in their humidor’s humidification system to get that scent. When you try this technique, remember to keep the humidor closed for a few hours.
FAQ Best Desktop Cigar Humidor
What is a cigar humidor?
It is a special box where you can save cigars with the right temperature and humidity.
How to use a cigar humidor?
This is critical to maintaining the right humidity of the cigars. The humidity is around 60, now I yield the humidity should be anywhere between 65 to 70 and not exceeding 75. So what we will do what we need is a humidification solution. You add the humidification solution to the sponges: make sure that you put enough solution. We have led the sponge’s rest for about 20 minutes and all we need to do is to take them back and put them in their original position. As we’re doing right now there is a small magnet in the back that holds them tight put them back in place and we’re set and ready to go.
How does a cigar humidor work?
A cigar humidor keeps humidity for your cigar collection. Inside this box, you should have a humidification system and control temperature.
How long will a cigar last in a humidor?
It’s about min 5 years with the right humidity and temperature.
How long can a cigar be out of a humidor?
What are some key features to look for in cigar humidors if I’m an aficionado wanting to maintain a 50 cigar count?
For an aficionado, a humidor supreme should include features such as precise humidity control, a tempered glass top for easy viewing, and sufficient storage capacity, ideally holding up to 50 cigars. Quality materials, such as a Spanish cedar interior, are also important for maintaining the flavor and freshness of the cigars.
Do all luxury humidors come with a built-in hygrometer and humidifier, or do I need to purchase these cigar accessories separately?
While many luxury humidors, especially brands like Savoy and Ashton, come equipped with hygrometers and humidifiers, it’s not uncommon to find models where you need to acquire these essential accessories separately. Always check the product details to understand what’s included.
For someone with a large collection of fine cigars, would a cigar cabinet or a larger humidor be more suitable?
A cigar cabinet is often more suitable for a large collection of fine cigars, as it offers greater storage capacity and better humidity distribution for a large number of cigars. Plus, cabinets often include features like accessory drawers and Spanish cedar dividers to organize and maintain cigars in perfect condition.
I see many desktop cigar humidors with a glasstop; does this feature have any benefits other than aesthetics?
A glasstop on desktop cigar humidors provides more than a luxurious look; it allows for a clear view of the cigarettes without needing to open the humidor, helping to prevent moisture loss and maintain the correct humidity levels.
Is it worth investing in a bey-berk humidor as a gift set for a cigar aficionado, or are there better options in the same price range?
A bey-berk humidor is a great gift, known for its quality and value for money. However, options like the valencia digital or the bally digital also make great gifts, offering features like digital hygrometers and a luxurious, high-gloss finish that any aficionado would appreciate.
How do humidors like the ones with a mahogany finish, ebony finish, or walnut finish differ besides their exterior look?
Besides aesthetic differences, the finish can also affect the humidor’s durability and resistance to external conditions. While all these finishes give a luxurious look, the choice may come down to personal preference and the decor of the space where you plan to keep it.
Do traditional humidors offer enough visibility for easy cigar selection, or should I opt for one with a tempered glass top?
Traditional humidors provide limited visibility as you would need to open them to view the contents. A humidor with a tempered glass top allows for easy visibility, making it easy to select a cigar without disturbing the internal environment.
Are there any shipping charges associated with larger humidors or those with accessory drawers?
Shipping charges vary based on the retailer, the size, and weight of the product, and the destination. Larger humidors and those with additional features like accessory drawers may incur higher shipping fees due to increased weight and the need for more careful handling.
What are some features to consider if I’m looking for a starter humidor for home or office use?
For a starter humidor, look for one that’s easy to transport, has a reliable humidity control system, and offers the right amount of space for the number of cigars you intend to store. Features like an engraveable brass nameplate and a Spanish cedar interior can also enhance the experience.
How do I find the perfect humidor that balances functionality and aesthetic for both home and office use?
Finding the perfect humidor involves considering several factors: storage capacity, humidity control, portability, and design. For home and office use, you might prefer a desktop model with a luxurious look, such as those with high-gloss finishes or tempered glass tops, that doesn’t sacrifice on humidity control or storage space.
How does a cigar cutter enhance the experience of a cigar aficionado?
A cigar cutter is essential for creating a clean cut in the cigar’s cap, which is crucial for a smooth, even draw. Proper use of a cutter prevents the wrapper from unraveling and preserves the cigar’s structure and flavors.
What makes a cigar desktop humidor a convenient choice for enthusiasts or casual smokers?
A cigar desktop humidor is compact and stylish, making it a practical and attractive addition to any desk or table. It’s designed for ease of access and can fit comfortably in your office or home space, providing ideal conditions for storing a small collection of cigars.
In what ways is a humidor designed to improve the longevity and quality of stored cigars?
A humidor is designed to maintain a stable environment through humidity and temperature controls. This stability is critical for preserving the freshness, aroma, and flavor of the cigars, preventing them from drying out or becoming overly moist, which can lead to mold growth or other damage.
Why is having a view of the cigarettes through a glass top or front in humidors considered beneficial?
A view of the cigarettes is not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional. It allows one to quickly assess their collection, monitor the condition of the cigars, and make a choice without needing to disrupt the internal environment of the humidor by opening it frequently.
When considering a humidor for a growing collection, why is it perfect for storing both short-term and long-term cigar selections?
A well-made humidor is perfect for storing cigars, both short-term and long-term, because it safeguards them from adverse external conditions. It provides consistent humidity and temperature, which are vital for the preservation of the cigars’ flavor and aroma, ensuring they age well and are kept at their optimum condition until they are ready to be enjoyed.
It depends on the humidity and temperature in the room. Approximately the number is 72 hours without breaking the aroma of the cigar and aging process.
Conclusion
Each of the humidors we’ve listed and reviewed above can be of good use whether you have a small or medium cigar collection. They all have a Spanish cedar interior, a hygrometer, and an attractive exterior design. Some of them have glass top panels for convenience along with interior dividers for further organization.