This guide is for someone that has just bought a brand new humidor.  Now that you have a new humidor, the first thing to do is not put cigars inside.  First and foremost you must season a new humidor before storing your beloved cigars.  Along with the humidification device, the cedar inside a humidor is part of the humidification system, and acts to provide humidity (and flavor) to the cigars.  You need to season the kiln dried Spanish Cedar wood inside to keep the right humidity for the cigars.  If the cedar has not been seasoned, the wood will actually rob moisture from the cigars, and dry them out.

Follow the steps below:

1.  To season a humidor, all you need is some distilled water, a clean soft cloth and some patience - at least for a couple of days.  IMPORTANT - Do not use tap water in place of distilled water.  Open your humidor and with a damp soft cloth dampen the inside with the distilled water.  Use the damp cloth to wipe the inside of your humidor, including the lid, dividers and trays.  Make sure you do not soak the inside, just wipe it down.

2.  Fill the humidification device with distilled water.  Make sure that the device is not overly saturated by letting any excess water drip out (into a sink), then wipe off any drops of water on the outside of the humidification device and place the device inside the humidor.  Close the lid and leave it for a few hours.  Repeat the process, and leave the humidor closed overnight.  The next day check your hygrometer for a reading of around 70% humidity.

3.  Humidors should keep 68% - 70% humidity to ensure proper aging for your cigars.

4.  If your hygrometer is still showing less than 62% humidity, repeat step 1 process for a few more days.  Many times, the wood needs to be prepared more than just once.  Also check the seal to make sure it is tight.

5.  Keep your humidor away from direct sunlight or anywhere it may be subject to unnecessary heat.

Having trouble keeping up the humidity level in your humidor?  Cigars should be stored at room temperature (about 70% F) with a humidity level of 68 to 72 percent.  Sometimes, it is difficult to maintain a constant level of humidity inside the box, especially when seasons change.  The humidity level inside your house, as well as other conditions, will affect the performance and operation of your humidor's humidification system.

The varied use of air conditioners, heaters and open windows can drastically change the level of humidity inside a house in a short period of time, making it harder (or easier) to maintain the optimal level of humidity inside a humidor.  In addition, other factors such as air circulation and exposure to direct sunlight can also lower humidity levels.

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All of Exclusive Cigar Accessories humidors come with instructions on how to activate your humidor.