How to Make a Humidor Out of Tupperware: A Guide for Aficionados
As a seasoned cigar aficionado, the proper storage of your prized collection is paramount. Look no further than this detailed guide, designed to lead you through the process of crafting a functional and airtight humidor using the humble yet versatile tupperware. Embark on this journey to create a sanctuary for your cigars, ensuring their optimal preservation and elevating your smoking experience.
How to Make a Humidor Out of Tupperware
As an aficionado with a profound appreciation for preserving cigars, I’ve embarked on a journey to craft humidors using readily available materials like Tupperware.
Why Tupperware?
- Affordability: Tupperware is a cost-effective option compared to traditional humidors.
- Versatility: Tupperware comes in various sizes and shapes, allowing you to customize your humidor to your specific needs.
- Airtight Seal: Tupperware’s airtight seal helps maintain ideal humidity levels, preserving the quality of your cigars.
Materials and Tools:
- Airtight Tupperware container with a lid
- Hygrometer
- Humidification device (sponge, beads, or gel)
- Distilled water
- Thermometer
- Optional: Spanish cedar lining for enhanced aroma and moisture absorption
Steps:
1. Select the Right Tupperware:
Choose an airtight Tupperware container that’s large enough to accommodate your cigars comfortably without overcrowding.
2. Prepare the Tupperware:
- Clean the Tupperware thoroughly to remove any residue or odors.
- If using a Spanish cedar lining, cut it to fit the inside of the Tupperware.
- Attach the Spanish cedar lining to the Tupperware using adhesive or small nails.
3. Add the Humidification Device:
- Place a humidification device inside the Tupperware.
- Soak the device in distilled water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place the humidification device in the Tupperware, ensuring it’s not touching the cigars.
4. Calibrate the Hygrometer:
- Calibrate the hygrometer to ensure accurate humidity readings.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for calibration.
5. Monitor Humidity and Temperature:
- Place the hygrometer and thermometer inside the Tupperware.
- Monitor the humidity and temperature levels regularly to ensure they’re within the ideal range for cigar storage (65-70% humidity and 65-75°F temperature).
6. Season the Humidor:
- To season the humidor, place a small dish of distilled water inside the Tupperware.
- Close the lid tightly and let it sit for 24 hours.
- This will help stabilize the humidity levels inside the humidor.
7. Store Your Cigars:
Once the humidor is seasoned, you can start storing your cigars.
Arrange the cigars neatly inside the Tupperware, ensuring they’re not touching each other or the humidification device.
Close the lid tightly and monitor the humidity and temperature levels regularly.
Learn all the steps required to successfully build a hovercraft at home at your own pace by clicking on how to make a hovercraft at home.
Eager to make a humidor airtight? Find a step-by-step guide on how to make a humidor airtight and try it yourself.
If you’re interested in making a humidor at home, we have a comprehensive tutorial on how to make a humidor at home that you can follow.
Tips and tricks for maintaining the humidor
Fellow cigar connoisseurs, I’m here to share some insights and tips and tricks for maintaining the humidor that’ll transform your cigar storage game. Let’s dive into the art of preserving your precious stogies like a true aficionado.
1. Calibrating Your Hygrometer: Precision is Key
Your hygrometer is the gatekeeper of your humidor’s humidity levels, so accuracy is paramount. Calibrating it regularly ensures reliable readings. Submerge it in distilled water for 30 minutes, then wipe it dry and adjust the dial to read 100%. Afterward, place it in an airtight container with a salt solution (3 tablespoons non-iodized salt per cup of distilled water) for 8 hours. If the reading is 75%, your hygrometer is spot-on. If not, adjust it accordingly.
2. Maintaining the Right Humidity: A Delicate Balance
Cigars thrive in a humidity range of 65% to 75%. Too high and you risk mold, too low and your cigars will dry out. Use a humidifier or Boveda packs to regulate humidity. Pro tip: Place a small cup of distilled water in the humidor to act as a natural humidifier.
3. Temperature Control: The Unsung Hero of Cigar Preservation
Temperature fluctuations can wreak havoc on your cigars. Aim for a steady temperature between 65°F and 75°F. Avoid placing your humidor near heat sources or direct sunlight. Also, never refrigerate your cigars – rapid temperature changes can damage them.
4. Air Circulation: The Life-Giving Breath of Your Humidor
Proper air circulation prevents mold and stale air from settling in. Regularly open your humidor for a few minutes to refresh the air. Don’t overdo it though, as excessive air exposure can cause humidity levels to drop.
5. Inspecting Your Cigars: A Vigilant Eye for Quality
Regularly inspect your cigars for signs of mold or damage. Remove any questionable cigars immediately to prevent contamination. Also, rotate your cigars within the humidor to ensure even aging and prevent flavor stagnation.
Key Takeaways:
- Your hygrometer is the guardian of humidity levels – calibrate it regularly for accurate readings.
- Maintain humidity between 65% and 75% – too high invites mold, too low dries out your cigars.
- Temperature stability between 65°F and 75°F is key – avoid heat sources and sunlight.
- Air circulation is vital – periodically open the humidor to refresh the air, but don’t overdo it.
- Inspect your cigars regularly for signs of trouble – remove any questionable ones promptly.
Troubleshooting Tips for Any Problems
Troubleshooting any issues with your Tupperware humidor is essential to maintain the best conditions for your cigars.
- Problem: Inconsistent Humidity
- Solution: Invest in a high-quality hygrometer to accurately monitor humidity levels. Calibrate the hygrometer regularly to ensure accurate readings.
- Problem: Mold or Mildew
- Solution: Ensure the humidor is clean and free of any contaminants. Use distilled water when refilling the humidifier to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
- Problem: Improper Airflow
- Solution: Make sure the Tupperware humidor has adequate ventilation. Consider drilling small holes on the lid or sides of the humidor to allow for proper airflow and prevent the buildup of stale air.
- Problem: Dried Out Cigars
- Solution: Check the humidity levels regularly and add distilled water to the humidifier as needed. Use a humidification solution designed for cigars.
- Problem: Unpleasant Odor
- Solution: Regularly air out the humidor and replace the humidifier solution. Use cedar or Spanish cedar trays to promote a pleasant aroma and absorb moisture.
Key Takeaways:
- Invest in a high-quality hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.
- Regularly calibrate the hygrometer to ensure accurate readings.
- Maintain proper airflow within the humidor to prevent stale air buildup.
- Use distilled water when refilling the humidifier.
- Choose a humidification solution designed for cigars.
- Regularly air out the humidor and replace the humidifier solution.
- Use cedar or Spanish cedar trays to promote a pleasant aroma.
Additional notes and considerations
When constructing your homemade humidor using Tupperware, I’ve learned a few bonus tips and tricks that might elevate your cigar storage experience:
Consistency is Key: Aim for a consistent temperature and humidity level within your humidor. Fluctuations in either can harm your beloved cigars.
Calibration Calibration Calibration: Don’t skip this crucial step. Calibrate your hygrometer regularly to ensure accurate readings and maintain the ideal environment for your cigars. Remember, a properly calibrated hygrometer is your trusted guide to cigar oasis.
Seasoning Perfection: When seasoning your humidor, patience is a virtue. Allow ample time for the seasoning process, ensuring it’s fully saturated before introducing your prized cigars.
Cedar Allure: If you desire that classic cedar aroma in your humidor, consider lining it with Spanish cedar. It naturally aids in maintaining humidity and adds an enticing aroma to your cigar haven.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Place your humidor away from direct sunlight. UV rays are a no-no for cigars, as they can compromise their flavor and integrity.
Long-Term Storage Kings: For long-term cigar storage, consider investing in a dedicated humidor cabinet. These cabinets provide superior temperature and humidity control, ensuring your cigars age gracefully.
Monitor Regularly: Keep a watchful eye on your humidor’s conditions. Regular monitoring ensures early detection of any humidity or temperature fluctuations, allowing you to make prompt adjustments and safeguard your cigar collection.
Humidification Devices: Explore various humidification devices such as electronic humidifiers or beads to maintain ideal humidity levels within your humidor. Experiment to find the method that suits your needs best.
Appropriate Storage: Store your cigars in their original packaging or cedar sleeves to maintain their shape and integrity.
Humidor Hygrometer: Invest in a high-quality hygrometer specifically designed for humidors. Accuracy is paramount in monitoring the humidity level of your cigar sanctuary.
Airtight Seal: Ensure the lid’s seal is airtight to prevent moisture loss and preserve the integrity of your cigar collection.
Key Takeaways:
Consistency Matters: Maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels within your humidor for optimal cigar preservation.
Calibration Means Accuracy: Calibrate your hygrometer regularly for precise humidity readings.
Patience in Seasoning: Allow ample time for the seasoning process to ensure proper saturation before introducing cigars.
Cedar Charm: Consider lining your humidor with cedar for a touch of aroma and moisture regulation.
Sunlight Sensitivity: Keep your humidor away from direct sunlight to protect cigars from UV damage.
Long-Term Storage: Invest in a dedicated humidor cabinet for long-term cigar storage and aging.
Regular Monitoring: Keep a watchful eye on humidity and temperature levels to ensure ideal cigar-aging conditions.
Humidification Options: Explore various humidification devices to find the best method for maintaining humidity.
Proper Cigar Storage: Store cigars in their original packaging or cedar sleeves for shape and integrity preservation.
Hygrometer Precision: Invest in a high-quality hygrometer designed specifically for humidors for accurate humidity monitoring.
Airtight Seal Importance: Ensure an airtight lid seal to prevent moisture loss and maintain optimal cigar storage conditions.
FAQ
Q1: What is the best type of Tupperware to use for a humidor?
A1: Airtight Tupperware containers with a tight seal are ideal. Look for containers made from food-grade plastic that won’t leach chemicals into your cigars.
Q2: How do I prepare the Tupperware container for use as a humidor?
A2: Clean the container thoroughly with a mild detergent and water. Dry it completely before use.
Q3: What kind of humidification device should I use in my Tupperware humidor?
A3: There are various humidification devices available. You can use beads, solutions, or crystals, depending on your preferences. Make sure to choose a device that maintains a constant humidity level.
Q4: How do I season my Tupperware humidor?
A4: Seasoning your humidor helps stabilize the humidity level. To do this, place a damp sponge in the container and close it tightly. Leave it for 24-48 hours before adding your cigars.
Q5: How do I maintain the humidity level in my Tupperware humidor?
A5: Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity level in your humidor. Adjust the humidity as needed by adding or removing water from the humidification device.
