Ideal Humidity & Temperature for Cigars
The ideal humidity for storing cigars is 65–69% relative humidity (RH) at a temperature of 65–68°F. This range keeps cigars fresh, prevents mould, and delivers the best burn and flavour. Use a humidor with Boveda humidity packs to maintain precise humidity and avoid fluctuations.

When it comes to cigar storage, nothing matters more than getting the humidity and temperature right. Treat them well, and your cigars will age gracefully, developing richer, more complex flavours over time. Get it wrong, and you’re looking at cracked wrappers, uneven burns, or dull flavour.

In this guide, we’ll answer the big questions cigar lovers are actually Googling, from the real ideal humidity range to the truth about the 70/70 rule, and share why we recommend Boveda humidity packs as the easiest, most reliable way to keep your cigars in perfect smoking condition.

1. What’s the Ideal Humidity & Temperature for Storing Cigars?

The classic cigar wisdom says: 70% relative humidity (RH) and 70°F,  also known as the “70/70 rule.” While this is a decent benchmark, many aficionados now prefer slightly lower levels for better flavour and burn.

For most cigar smokers, especially in the UK, we recommend:

• 65–69% RH for a cleaner burn and crisper draw
• 65–68°F to avoid over-humidifying or drying out cigars

Why lower than the old-school 70/70? Slightly drier cigars tend to smoke more evenly, taste brighter, and are less prone to mould, particularly in climates where room temperatures can fluctuate.

2. Is the 70/70 Rule Really the Best?

Not always. While 70/70 works as a guideline, the best humidity for cigars depends on your environment, humidor type, and personal taste.

A few things to consider:

• Flavour preference: If you like a firm draw and a cooler smoke, you may prefer 65–67% RH.
• Storage style: Wooden humidors naturally buffer changes better than small travel cases.
• Seasonal changes: In Scotland’s winter heating season, humidity control becomes even more important.

3. How Do You Keep Cigar Humidity Perfectly Steady?

Here’s the real secret to cigar storage,  consistency beats perfection. Your cigars will suffer more from constant swings in humidity than from being 1–2% above or below your target.

The easiest way to keep things stable? Boveda two-way humidity control packs.

Why We Trust Boveda

Since 1997, Boveda has been the quiet hero of cigar storage. Born in Minnesota, USA, they changed the game with the world’s first patented two-way humidity control,  a precision system that adds or absorbs moisture as needed, keeping your cigars at the exact RH level you choose. No guesswork, no fiddling with sponges or gels, just perfect conditions 24/7. That’s why Boveda isn’t just used by collectors at home,  you’ll find them in the humidors of master blenders, premium cigar retailers, and serious aficionados worldwide. We use them ourselves, and we stock them because they work. Simple as that.

A Brief History of Boveda

Founded in 1997 in Minnesota, USA, Boveda revolutionised cigar storage with its patented two-way humidity control technology. Originally created for the premium cigar industry, Boveda’s precision salt-based system was the first to both add and absorb moisture as needed, keeping humidity at a constant, accurate level. Today, Boveda packs are trusted not just by cigar enthusiasts, but also by coffee roasters, musicians, and even medical industries,  but cigars remain at the heart of the brand’s legacy.

Our Recommended Boveda Products for Cigar Storage

Boveda 69% RH Humidity Control Packs

Shop Boveda 69% RH →
The sweet spot for most premium cigars — ideal for desktop humidors or travel cases if you like a smooth, balanced draw.

Boveda 72% RH Humidity Control Packs

Shop Boveda 72% RH →
Perfect for larger humidors or very dry climates. Keeps cigars supple without risking over-humidification.

Boveda Humidor Starter Kit

Shop Boveda Starter Kit →
Everything you need to season, calibrate, and stabilise your humidor from day one.

4. Can You Fix Over-Humidified Cigars?

Yes, but go slow. Sudden changes in humidity can cause the wrapper to split.

How to rescue them:

1. Remove from their current humidor.
2. Store in a sealed container with a 65% Boveda pack.
3. Leave for 2–3 weeks to stabilise gradually.

5. Quick Tips for Perfect Cigar Storage

• Avoid extremes: Keep your humidor away from radiators, direct sunlight, or draughty windows.
• Check, don’t fuss: With Boveda, you only need to check packs every few months, not daily.
• Rotate cigars: Move sticks occasionally so they age evenly.
• Bigger is better: Larger humidors hold humidity more consistently.

Boveda vs Other Humidity Methods

Verdict:
If you want steady, worry-free cigar storage, Boveda wins hands down. It’s the only method that actively balances your humidor both ways,  adding humidity when it’s dry and pulling it back when it’s too damp.

The Bottom Line

Whether you stick to 70/70 or prefer a slightly lower range, the most important factor in cigar storage is keeping humidity and temperature consistent.

That’s exactly why we use and recommend Boveda humidity packs,  they make cigar care effortless, so you can focus on enjoying the smoke rather than worrying about the science.

Browse Our Full Range of Boveda Products →