Looking for some help with a humi

[IrishBoi]

Well hello for the first time! I stumbled upon your site today while I was looking for information on humis. I was an avid cigar collector and smoker for many years. Needless to say life took a turn and I migrated away from the lifestyle. I was thinking about getting a small desktop humi the other day. For my moms birthday I took her thrift store shopping. I think i got my omen walking into the first store. Before me stood a waist high maybe 200 count humi. There are no markings on the humi anywhere. the hydrometer is stamped "Hillsdale House". I was hoping someone may be able to help me figure out what I have and/or be able to assist me in getting it into working condition. I forgot the best part. The humi was marked $120, I got it for $60. So I think Ive gotta be back, lol. Im going to attach some pics for reference.

Thanks in advance for any and all your help.

Cheers!

[IrishBoi]

Sorry the pics are sideways I didn't realize. My bad guys!

[markem]

No worries about the pics.

We have a sticky at the top of this forum for seasoning a humidor. That would be the best source of general information. Once it has seasoned for a while (maybe a week, given that it probably hasn't been kept humidified), you can check for leaks and then, if necessary, you can ask more detailed questions in this thread.

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=620

[IrishBoi]

Thanks didn't see that! Ill check it out.

[DMK]

Looks nice, hope it works out for you.

[icehog3]

Look through the thread, and then hit us up with any follow up questions. We're a helpful bunch of Inmates. :D

[CigarNut]

Make sure you do a thorough seasoning — don’t rush it. Just my :2

[IrishBoi]

ok so i read through the sticky. apologies if im posting in the wrong area. how big of a basin ow water should i use? is the bigger the better?

[CigarNut]

Don’t use a basin — use one or more sponges (wet with distilled water) spread about the humidor. Sponges work better than a dish of water because they offer more surface area.

[IrishBoi]

I would assume use damp sponges not saturated sponges correct? If using sponges should they have direct contact with the wood or should there be a barrier between the sponge and the wood?

[AdamJoshua]

I would assume use damp sponges not saturated sponges correct? If using sponges should they have direct contact with the wood or should there be a barrier between the sponge and the wood?

lots of water is fine as long as it is distilled, put the sponge on a plate in the humi :tu

[IrishBoi]

So I'm thinking I should do 4 sponges. One on each shelf and two on the bottom. Let it season for 14 days. Y'all think this would do the trick or at least be a good starting point?

[icehog3]

So I'm thinking I should do 4 sponges. One on each shelf and two on the bottom. Let it season for 14 days. Y'all think this would do the trick or at least be a good starting point?

If it doesn't, there might be a seal issue with the humidor. Get 'er started and keep us in the loop.

[IrishBoi]

Im going to get some fresh sponges and distilled water today. ill post pics when its done! thanks guys

[IrishBoi]

So this is what i have done. Ive soaked the sponges. I allowed them to drip dry. I did not squeeze them. I just made sure there was no standing water on the plate before I closed the lid. In the next 2 weeks I need to figure out what kind of hygrometer to get. Does anyone have any suggestions? Im looking to spend no more than 200. The less the better but 200 is no problem. Im only guessing that a hygrometer is the next step?

[icehog3]

You don't need to spend anywhere near that for a hygrometer.

Just a couple quick possibilities:

https://www.amazon.com/Cigar-Oasis-Caliber-Digital-Hygromter/dp/B00JXOKQVW/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&hvadid=78683853401218&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvqmt=e&keywords=digital+hygrometers+for+humidors&qid=1597249941&sr=8-4&tag=mh0b-20

https://www.amazon.com/Hygrometer-10-Second-Tempeture-Quality-Importers/dp/B000H6CZQE/?tag=cigar44-20

[markem]

A bunch of us are moving to Govee

https://www.amazon.com/Govee-Thermometer-Hygrometer-Bluetooth-Temperature/dp/B07R586J37

I have one for the top shelf of my cabinet and one for the bottom. The bluetooth setup is nice. Bare functionality, but temp and RH is all that I need.

[IrishBoi]

Sorry its been a couple of days, been slammed at work. I'm almost sold on the cigar oasis. Here is a question though. Has anyone used an "old school" hygrometer in unison with something like the govee? can this be done or is it better to have one or the other. I really only want to have to do this once. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[AdamJoshua]

You don't need to spend anywhere near that for a hygrometer.

Just a couple quick possibilities:

https://www.amazon.com/Cigar-Oasis-Caliber-Digital-Hygromter/dp/B00JXOKQVW/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&hvadid=78683853401218&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvqmt=e&keywords=digital+hygrometers+for+humidors&qid=1597249941&sr=8-4&tag=mh0b-20

https://www.amazon.com/Hygrometer-10-Second-Tempeture-Quality-Importers/dp/B000H6CZQE/?tag=cigar44-20

FOG and his archaic technology. :gary

[icehog3]

FOG and his archaic technology. :gary

Yeah, listening to Mick Jagger music and bad-mouthing my country. -(P

[Wharf Rat]

Sorry its been a couple of days, been slammed at work. I'm almost sold on the cigar oasis. Here is a question though. Has anyone used an "old school" hygrometer in unison with something like the govee? can this be done or is it better to have one or the other. I really only want to have to do this once. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Any hygrometer is measuring relative humidity so, “in theory” you should be able to use different hygrometers side by side. But, in the real world, all hygrometers have inaccuracies. For example, the govee is rated at +/- 3 percentage points. So, two hygrometers sitting next to each other aren’t always going to read exactly the same, even if you calibrate them. Then, you’re gonna have to start a new thread asking which one is right. So, I would choose one, calibrate it and get used to which reading makes your cigars smoke happy.

[IrishBoi]

I feel like Im choosing between the light and dark side now! Do I take the blue or red pill?

[IrishBoi]

I think Im going to order both the giver and the cigar oasis. Calibrate them at the same time and see what happens Worst is I save one for the next him that comes along

[IrishBoi]

Anyone have any suggestions as to where to order cigars from. I know Im going to have to keep this thing stocked. Im looking at either Thompson or Corona. Im thinking in order to bulk up the bottom Ill just order some seconds just for mass to start with. Then ill most likely order 10-15 5 packs. Until I build another collection. Just wondering if there are any other good sites out there.

[longknocker]

Anyone have any suggestions as to where to order cigars from. I know Im going to have to keep this thing stocked. Im looking at either Thompson or Corona. Im thinking in order to bulk up the bottom Ill just order some seconds just for mass to start with. Then ill most likely order 10-15 5 packs. Until I build another collection. Just wondering if there are any other good sites out there.

Not Thompson! Atlantic Cigars Aways Have Good Prices & Great Customer Service. Also A Sticky Somewhere In The Forum For Suggested Cigar Sites.:D:tu

[IrishBoi]

Sorry wasn't aware there was a sticky Ill check it out

[markem]

The sticky is at this link: http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=1612

Vendors come and go and also get better or worse over time. Posting in that thread about who is a good source now, esp w/ covid, would be most useful.

One thing that I will point out about cigars and hygrometers. It isn't that your cigars *must* be at some RH. Instead, you want to know at what RH, as displayed on your hygrometer(s), do your cigars smoke best at. It's all about personal preference and many have great advice, but in the end, you are going to be the one smoking them.

Hygrometers are a bit like watches. If you only have one watch, you always know what time it is. If you have more than one watch, you never know what time it is.

[icehog3]

Mr. Mark is wise. ;)

[IrishBoi]

RH? Relative Humidity?

[icehog3]

RH? Relative Humidity?

Correct Sir.

[IrishBoi]

Ok, So I stumbled upon the Boveda Butler today. Anyone have any experience or inside info on these. I like the fact that I would be able to use the same company for hygrometer and packs. They also make nice cedar holders for the packs. Im hoping you guys don't give em bad news lol

[longknocker]

Ok, So I stumbled upon the Boveda Butler today. Anyone have any experience or inside info on these. I like the fact that I would be able to use the same company for hygrometer and packs. They also make nice cedar holders for the packs. Im hoping you guys don't give em bad news lol

https://cigarsdaily.com/product-category/accessories/page/2/
I've purchased A Boveda Butler From This Company Along With Some Fairly Decent $8.99 Hygrometers that are Pre-Set. I've Been Happy With Both.:tu

[longknocker]

Eric: I Use Boveda Packs For All My Cigars. I Recommend Either 65% Or 69%. Chances Are Your RH In Your Humidor May Run At That RH Or 1-2 Points Below It.

[CigarNut]

I am admittedly biased, but I prefer beads over Boveda packs. The Boveda packs work fine, but since they are preset they are less flexible than beads. Just my :2

[IrishBoi]

OK so Im going to ask this...Im fairly certain that the first post will be "there's a sticky for that" lol. Im not sure I understand the difference between the packs and beads. These are both new concepts since I was last in the lifestyle. What info is there out there regarding the 2?

[jledou]

My understanding, the Boveda type packs are membranes and gel set to absorb or give off humidity at a set %. Michael please correct me but the beads (clay/ceramic type) are set to a porous structure to hold moisture and help maintain release into the closed environment.

I use a combo of the two. I use the packs to supply the water and I have trays and contains of beads in alternating areas of the humidor to help balance humidity through out.

Nice thing is with the combo of the two, I have not used a hydrometer for years. When the Boveda packs start to get dry I switch them out with a recharged set and I am good to go for another 4-6 months.

[IrishBoi]

Jay, is there any way you could send me a couple of pics of how the humi is set up? Im just wondering how you do it and if it would work for my set up.

[icehog3]

Additionally, the beads can absorb as well as release moisture. This keeps your RH in the humidor where you want it even when the humidity outside the humidor is higher.

[longknocker]

Additionally, the beads can absorb as well as release moisture. This keeps your RH in the humidor where you want it even when the humidity outside the humidor is higher.

The Boveda Packs Do The Same, Admiral. I Just Couldn't Keep My RH Steady With The Beads.:tu

[IrishBoi]

So it is common to use beads and packs together? Also I have no idea what count my humi is. How do I know what to start with? For example one pack and 1 canister of beads, 2 and 2.......

[longknocker]

So it is common to use beads and packs together? Also I have no idea what count my humi is. How do I know what to start with? For example one pack and 1 canister of beads, 2 and 2.......

Eric: For Simplicity, I Recommend Boveda Packs. You Can Reuse Them By Putting them In A Smaller Container Inside Another Larger Airtight Container Filled With Distilled H20.

Here's The # Of Boveda Packs You Need:
https://bovedainc.com/support/cigars/choose-right-number-boveda/

[IrishBoi]

That info is much needed for sure! Thank you! Here is the million dollar question. How many cigars will my humi hold? Is there some sort of mathematical formula I can use if I know the sides of the humi that will tell me? Do I need interior measurements? Im only guessing its 300ct, I have no real idea at all

[CigarNut]

One thing to watch out for with Boveda packs: they are filled with a salt compound. After repeated use the paper can wear and the salt can leak which will damage your humidor and your cigars.

As long as you are diligent, you should be OK.

There are two different kinds of beads on the market: silicate (e.g., Heartfelt Industries) and my HCM Beads, which are made of clay. Both work well, but I am biased toward the HCM Beads :)

No matter what you use, it can take a while to get your humidor dialed in. Make sure to properly season your humidor, and to periodically reseason in. Moisture in the wood keeps the joints tight and helps keep a good seal.

[longknocker]

That info is much needed for sure! Thank you! Here is the million dollar question. How many cigars will my humi hold? Is there some sort of mathematical formula I can use if I know the sides of the humi that will tell me? Do I need interior measurements? Im only guessing its 300ct, I have no real idea at all

Go With 300 Count, Use The Appropriate # Of Boveda Packs After Properly Seasoning Your Humidor & Go From There Would Be My Recommendation. Everyone Prefers A Different RH. I Personally Like 63-68.

[Wharf Rat]

Believe it or not, a humidor capacity calculator. In reality, you’ll have different boxes, trays, etc. so, the number of cigars wil be al lot less than here.

https://www.humidordiscount.com/humidor_calculator

PS: I found this with a Google search. You could too.

[IrishBoi]

Yeah my friend google knows a lot as well. I was just being lazy and figured one of y'all might know

[IrishBoi]

So in five days i can open my humi. What is my next step? I haven't ordered a boded system yet. Should I keep it closed till I have a hygrometer? Im still about 2 weeks out from ordering cigars. How should I proceed?

[CigarNut]

Without a good hygrometer it's difficult to say when your humidor is ready. I would wait until you have your hygrometer. just my :2

[IrishBoi]

Ok. Again sorry for the lack of communication. My boded butler has arrived. I have 2x 69% Rh packs on the way. I figured this was a good middle ground starting point. On the 26th the humi will have been seasoning for 14 days. Whats the next step? Should I wait for the packs to get here and open the humi once the butler is calibrated and the packs are here? or should I calibrate the butler and set it in the humi before I have packs?

[Wharf Rat]

The important thing is to follow the directions to correctly calibrate the hygrometer. After that, you could follow either path. If you put the The hygrometer in with the sponges, it should read quite high, maybe in the 90s. If you put it in with only the Boveda packs, it should read near their value.

When I say, “it should read,” I mean after you close the humidor and let everything settle down. Since you can watch the value on your phone, I would wait until you see similar readings over several hours.

[IrishBoi]

Well then I guess I should calibrate my butler today

[IrishBoi]

So the butler is calibrated and working great. The Boded packs will be in on monday if I remember correctly. The only thing left was cigars. So I got up this morning checked my account and a payment I was waiting for came in. So I called Cigars International and spoke with a rep. Told them the story of my mom finding the humi for me and I wanted to see if they could create me a sampler. I told them I had 500 to spend. After taxes it was close to 550. Here is what is coming in. Let me know what you think

5 – Romeo y Julieta Bully Belicoso (5.5”x52)
5 – Montecristo White Rothschild (5”x52)
5 – Macanudo Gold Crystal (5.5”x50)
5 – Cohiba Red Dot Churchill (7”x49)
5 – Alec Bradley Prensado Robusto (5" x 50)
5 - MOntecristo White Label Rothschild (5" x 52)
5 - Man O' War Valkyrie Robusto (5.2" x 50)
5 - Gilberto Oliva Reserva Blanc Churchill (7" x 50)
5 - Perdomo Reserve 10th Anniversary Champagne Epicure (6" x 54)
5 – H. Upmann by AJ Fernande Toro (6” x 54)
5 – Romeo y Julieta 1875 Nicaragua Toro (6” x 50)
5 – Montecristo Platinum Toro (6” x 50)
5 – Gurkha Beauty (6.5” x 58)
5 – 5 Vegas Gold Toro (6” x 50)
5 – Macanudo Café Hyde Park (5.5” x 49)
5 – Camacho Scorpion Connecticut Robusto (5” x 50)
5 – Man O’ War Virtue Toro (6” x 50)
5 – Montecristo White Label Robusto (5” x 52)
5 - Gurkha Beast (6.5" x 56)
5 - Gurkha Beauty (6.5" x 56)
5 - Gurkha Titan (6.25" x 56)
5 - Gurkha Crest Churchill (7.0" x 52)
5 - Gurkha Centurian Double Perfecto (6" x 60)
5 - Gurkha Legend Vintage 2001 Double Perfecto (6" x 60)
6 - Genesis The Project by Ramon Bueso Robusto Extra (5.5" x 50)
5 – Macanudo Gold Crystal (No Tube) (5.5” x 50)
5 – Gurkha Legend Vintage 2001 Toro (6.5” x 56)
5 – Oliva Serie O Robusto (5” x 50)
5 – Excalibur Epicure Robusto (5.2” x 50)
5 – Asylum 13 Robusto (5” x 50)
5 – Drew Estate Undercrown Maduro (5” x 54”
5 – Tatuaje Tattoo Robusto (5’ x50)
5 – Tatuaje Havana VI Nobles (5’ x 50)
1 – Liga Privada Tasting Sampler

1 - Herf-a-Dor X5 5-Capacity Travel Humidor
1 - Genesis The Project Wooden Ashtray
1 – Stinky Tall Ashtray
1 – Xikar X8 Cutter
1 - Rockwel Quad Torch Lighter

[icehog3]

Lots of really good cigars in there Eric. And some Gurkhas. ;) ;s

[IrishBoi]

I still have room in the humi in theory. Once this order comes in I’ll prolly join the Newbie trade list. There are also some more specific cigars that I’m looking for. Guess I gotta wait till the B/S/T section gets opened to me

[afranco]

Needed a new hygrometer and purchased the Govee that Markem suggested. Just opened it up and now calibrating it. Thanks for the info and suggestions