Fungus in Humidors

Fungus can ruin a cigar humidor.

A humidor can be either a box or a room that maintains a constant level of humidity to keep cigars, cigarettes or other tobacco products fresh. Because of the moist air, humidors are susceptible to fungus growth.

Identification

Fungus will turn cigars green or black. Molds might also appear as a blue or gray fuzz along the cigars and the humidor walls.

Causes

Fungus grows when temperature and humidity levels within the humidor climb too high. Ideally, the temperature should be kept at 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 70 percent humidity. Fungus and mold can begin growing at temperatures above 73 degrees and humidity levels above 74 percent.

Prevention/Solution

Maintaining proper humidity levels and temperature is essential to preventing humidor fungus. Isopropyl alcohol or a propylene glycol solution can be used to wipe the humidor's interior to kill mold and deter future fungus growth.

Warning

Never smoke a cigar that shows signs of fungus. Any affected cigars should be destroyed.

Misconceptions

Even when cigars are stored in optimal conditions, they might begin to grow a fluffy white substance. That white matter is not fungus. It's actually starch, which is the sign of a tasty, well-aged cigar. Simply brush off the starch before smoking.

References

• NeptueCigar.com
• ClubOfZurich.com
• Vigilant Inc