Step 1: obtain cooler. 152quart Igloo can be had at Academy for $85
Step 2: Wipe down interior with rubbing alcohol, followed by a clean paper towel with distilled water.
Step 3: Let air dry 24 hours. Sunlight optional.
Step 4: Fill with cedar boxes (obtained from your local B&M or us). This will help with the plastic odor and help to aromatically season the box (worked for mine).
Step 5: Obtain humification beads. I'm a fan of Shilala Beads. Plus it's fun to say 5 times fast. ALWAYS buy more than the specs call for. If the calculations say buy 1 pound, buy 1.5.
Step 6: Obtain hygrometer. Calibrate it using
these here instructions.
Step 7: Remove all boxes from cooler, place beads (65% recommended) and hygrometer in cooler.
Step 8: Close door.
Step 9: Leave door closed for a week. MINIMUM!
Step 10: After one week, open door to check hygrometer. You should be close to 65% if not right on it.
Step 11: Fill box with smokes...preferably in cedar boxes. Mainly because it smells amazing.
Step 12: Don't freak out if the hygrometer drops for a week. It will bounce back in time. If after a month, you find your readings are consistently low, follow the instructions sent with your beads to increase humidity.
Step 13: ???
Step 14: Profit!!