Quick answer

To keep cigars fresh, place Boveda packs directly in your humidor, let them season the space for 2 weeks, and choose 65% RH for Cubans or 75% for drafty humidors.

Why Boveda packs beat traditional humidifiers

Boveda packs use 2-way humidity control: they add moisture when the air is dry and absorb it when it's too humid. This keeps your cigars at a steady RH without the mess of sponges or crystals.

The right RH depends on your cigars and storage. 65% is ideal for Cuban cigars, while 75% suits drafty humidors that lose humidity quickly.

How to use Boveda packs step by step

  1. Choose the right RH: Select Boveda packs based on your cigars: 65% for Cubans, 75% for drafty humidors, or 69% for general storage. Check your humidor's seal before choosing; a drafty one may need 75%.
  2. Season your humidor first: If your humidor is new or dry, wipe the interior with a damp cloth and let it sit for 24 hours, then add Boveda packs. Skipping seasoning can cause wood to absorb moisture from the packs, delaying stabilization.
  3. Place packs correctly: Lay Boveda packs flat in the humidor, away from direct contact with cigars. Use a holder if you have one to keep them tidy. Avoid stacking packs on cigars; this can cause uneven humidity spots.
  4. Wait for stabilization: Close the humidor and wait 2 weeks for the RH to stabilize. Check with a hygrometer to confirm it's in the target range. If RH is still off, add or remove a pack based on the reading.
  5. Maintain and replace packs: Check packs monthly. When they feel hard and crumbly, replace them with fresh ones. A 60g pack lasts about 2-3 months in a typical humidor. Don't wait for the pack to fully harden; replace it when it loses flexibility.

Boveda products that help

  • Boveda 65% 60g: Boveda 65% 60g is designed for Cuban cigars, providing 2-way humidity control. If you store Cubans, this pack keeps them at the recommended RH to prevent drying or mold.

    Boveda 65% 60g

    Boveda 65% 60g

  • Boveda 75% 60g: Boveda 75% 60g is for cigars in drafty humidors that lose humidity quickly. In a leaky humidor, this higher RH compensates for moisture loss, keeping your cigars within a safe range.

    Boveda 75% 60g

    Boveda 75% 60g

  • Boveda-Wooden Holder 4 Packets: The Boveda Wooden Holder holds up to four Boveda packets and fits neatly in humidors. It keeps packs organized and prevents direct contact with cigars, which can cause uneven humidity.