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If you enjoy cigars, you know that quality doesn't stop at the cigar itself — storage makes a massive difference. A well-made humidor keeps cigars at the ideal relative humidity and prevents unruly drying or mold. Think of a humidor as a refrigerator for flavor: it preserves aroma, burn, and the oils that make each cigar unique. In the UK, where damp winters and warm summers can swing the indoor environment, choosing the right humidor is a small investment that keeps your collection tasting great.
Desktop humidors are the go-to for most enthusiasts. They’re compact, stylish, and designed to sit on a table or shelf. Typical sizes range from about 8 inches by 6 inches for small boxes up to 16 inches by 10 inches for larger desktop units that hold 50 to 100 cigars. They’re perfect if you want easy access to a handful of favorite sticks.
For collectors or tobacconists, cabinet and walk-in humidors are the heavyweights. These range from armoires that might be 2 feet wide and 6 feet tall to full walk-in rooms. They use larger humidification systems and often have multiple trays or drawers to organize different wrappers and strengths. If you plan to store hundreds of cigars, this is where serious climate control comes into play.
Travel humidors are compact, often cylindrical or thin rectangular cases meant to hold a few cigars on the go. Sizes typically measure under 10 inches in length and weigh only a few ounces, making them ideal for short trips. They’re not substitutes for home humidors, but they protect your sticks from drying out during travel.
Spanish cedar is the classic lining for good humidors. It helps maintain humidity, repels tobacco beetles, and imparts a subtle aromatic layer to cigars. When you open a cedar-lined humidor, you should notice a warm, woodsy scent — that’s a sign it will condition your cigars gently and effectively.
Your humidor needs accurate humidity feedback. Analog hygrometers are traditional, but many buyers prefer digital models for precision. Look for options that allow calibration. For humidification, simple sponge systems work for small boxes, while gel or electronic systems are better for larger units. The target range is usually around 68–72 percent relative humidity and about 65–70°F for storage.
Pay attention to the seal — a tight lid keeps a stable environment. Test how the lid closes and whether the humidor has a lip that forms a close seal. Solid hinges and quality craftsmanship reduce air leaks. Materials like hardwoods and quality veneers are preferable over thin laminates that warp over time.
Large department stores often stock branded desktop humidors and travel cases from reputable makers. Names like John Lewis, Selfridges, and Harrods typically offer a mix of mid-range and luxury options. These stores are a good place to see finished pieces in person and compare feel and finish before buying.
If you want specialist advice, head to tobacconists. London’s long-established retailers and regional cigar shops often carry a curated selection of humidors, from modest cedar boxes to premium designer pieces. Shops such as James J. Fox and other well-known tobacconists provide hands-on guidance, which matters when you’re selecting size, lining, and humidification type.
There are UK-based online retailers that focus on humidors and accessories, offering detailed product pages and broader ranges than many high-street shops. These specialists usually list capacities, internal dimensions in inches, and recommended maintenance routines. They’re convenient for comparisons and often offer bundling discounts on hygrometers and humidifiers.
Marketplaces like Amazon UK and auction sites such as eBay can be great for bargains or rare vintage finds. When buying second-hand or from individual sellers, scrutinize photos for cedar condition, water damage, and any signs of mold. Ask for exact interior dimensions and whether the hygrometer is included and calibrated.
Some brands are known for consistent quality across price bands. Look for established humidor makers or cigar brands that produce accessories. Designer names and luxury brands often provide high-end finish and hardware, while specialist manufacturers focus on dependable humidification and cedar lining. Match the brand to your priorities: style, durability, or precise climate control.
Choosing size is both practical and emotional. Think about how many cigars you regularly enjoy and whether you plan to age cigars long-term. Small boxes (roughly 8 inches by 6 inches) are great for a daily rotation of 10–30 cigars. Medium boxes, around 12 inches by 8 inches, hold roughly 50–100 cigars. If you collect hundreds, consider cabinet units measured in feet. Allow wiggle room: crowded humidors don’t age evenly.
Budget humidors can be surprisingly effective if they’re lined with Spanish cedar and include a simple humidifier and hygrometer. Expect basic hinges and veneers rather than solid hardwood. These are ideal for beginners who want to protect a small stash without a big spend.
Mid-range humidors often offer better craftsmanship, thicker cedar lining, and more reliable humidification systems. They balance aesthetics and function, and you’ll find many models sold by tobacconists and department stores in this category. These are smart buys for regular smokers who want lasting performance.
At the top end, luxury humidors use exotic woods, custom hardware, and branded humidification systems. Some have electronic controls, multiple drawers, and high-capacity reservoirs. These are for collectors who view humidors as furniture and investment pieces as much as storage.
Seasoning readies a new humidor to hold stable humidity. A quick and reliable method is to gently wipe the interior cedar with a cloth lightly dampened with distilled water, place a humidifying device inside, and allow it to stabilize for 24–48 hours. Calibrate the hygrometer by using a salt test and adjust as needed. After seasoning, aim to maintain the humidor at roughly 70 percent relative humidity and around 68°F to 70°F. Refill humidifiers according to the manufacturer’s instructions and rotate cigars occasionally so air flows evenly.
Spend on the things you can’t easily fix: cedar lining, a quality seal, and a dependable hygrometer. You can save on exterior finish or decorative details if budget matters. If you’re just starting, buying a well-reviewed mid-range unit from a specialist shop or a trusted online retailer will give you the best long-term value. Look for package deals that include a calibrated hygrometer and humidifier — these bundles simplify setup and often save money.
Avoid a few easy-to-make errors: trusting uncalibrated hygrometers, overfilling humidifiers, crowding the humidor, or using tap water (always use distilled). Another trap is buying a travel humidor as your primary storage; these are great on the move but won’t keep a long-term collection stable. Finally, don’t neglect seasonal adjustments — heating and central heating can lower humidity in winter, so monitor and top up more frequently.
If you like to feel the wood and test lids, visit department stores and tobacconists. Specialty shops let you examine different seals and frequently have staff who can demonstrate seasoning and maintenance. For high-end purchases, many stores offer viewing rooms or consultations so you can match the piece to your home decor and storage needs.
While Spanish cedar remains the standard, some makers use sustainable woods and certified materials. If sustainability is important to you, ask retailers about wood sourcing and any eco-certifications. There are also humidors with replaceable liners that reduce waste over time.
Before you buy, ask yourself: How many cigars will I store? Do I need a travel option? Is a digital hygrometer important to me? Check the interior dimensions in inches, confirm the lining material, inspect the seal, and ensure a humidification method is included. If buying online, read reviews and check return flexibility in case the unit arrives with issues.
Buying a humidor in the UK is part science, part personal taste. Whether you pick up a compact desktop model from a department store, invest in a premium cabinet from a specialist maker, or find a gem on a marketplace, focus on cedar lining, a tight seal, and reliable humidity control. Take time to season and maintain your unit, and you’ll protect both your cigars and your investment. With the right humidor, every cigar will taste like it was meant to — consistent, balanced, and satisfying.
| Humidors | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Sizosl Pouf Footstool With Storage Red | kr. 690,- |
