Some humidors don’t come with a hygrometer. For those that do, no analog hygrometer is perfect. In fact, they are not meant so much to provide a precise reading but to give you a close approximation. Often, they need to be calibrated, they are very touchy. Sometimes analog hygrometers need a jolt every once in a while. Do this by wrapping in a moist cloth and leave out overnight (away from cigars). The needle should register a high level of humidity by morning. If the needle has not moved, it is defective.
A digital hygrometer is much more accurate than an analog.
Often, a hygrometer may read 40%, but it’s not really that low. Before tossing it in the garbage, check the following:
- Make sure to recharge the humidification device regularly by refilling with distilled water.
- Calibrate the hygrometer so it will read more accurately.
- Take out the cigars, wipe down the interior cedar, let it dry and repeat, then put the cigars back in, this often does the trick.
- Squeeze test – between forefinger and thumb gently squeeze the cigar, it should have a slight give, but not be mushy nor should it be hard – This is often the best test if someone is worried that their cigars are going bad.
- Certain climates, parts of the country, and seasons are drier than others – You may need to buy an additional humidifier to put in your humidor, or put a slightly damp piece of sponge in your humidor (not touching the cigars) to help increase the humidity.
- Make sure it is not near an AC or heater, this will affect the environment inside the humidor dramatically – humidor should be in a relatively cool, dry place