Walk-in Humidors are practically sacred spaces. They must function as precisely maintained micro-climates where temperature and relative humidity are controlled to preserve proper aging and optimal smoking conditions.
They must also be impeccably clean. The cigars housed inside will ultimately be placed in someone's mouth. Sanitation is not optional. It is a professional obligation.
Tobacconists carry the responsibility of maintaining sanitary standards from ceiling to floor. Customers share that responsibility by keeping clean hands and avoiding contact with cigars above the band, since that portion will rest in another person's mouth.
Best Practices for Walk-in Humidors:
1. Elevate Product
Open cigar boxes should be positioned at least one foot above the floor. This allows proper floor cleaning and prevents foot debris from contaminating product.
2. Use Non-Aromatic Cleaners
Clean floors and surfaces with a neutral, non-aromatic soft soap detergent. Avoid scented cleaners that can contaminate the aroma and flavor profile of cigars.
3. Control Mold
Maintain consistent RH and airflow as the primary defense against mold. If UV sanitizing lights are used, they should be installed properly, used safely, and never directed at cigars for extended periods, as UV exposure can degrade tobacco and wood over time. UV should supplement environmental control, not replace it.
4. Use Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water
Only use RO or properly distilled water for humidification to prevent mineral buildup, bacterial growth, and unwanted contaminants.
5. Install Entry Mats
Place a floor mat at the entrance to encourage customers to wipe their feet before entering.
6. Provide Hand Sanitizer
Offer hand sanitizer at the entrance for customers and ensure staff use it regularly.
7. Maintain Organization and Visibility
Monitor and clean all surfaces in and around open and closed boxes. Keeping cigars organized and properly faced encourages routine inspection, cleaning, theft prevention, and damage control. Damaged cigars are inevitable. Neglected cigars are not.
8. No Smoking Inside
Do not allow smoking in the walk-in humidor. Preserve the unlit aromas and prevent smoke contamination of inventory.
9. See Something - Say Something
If you see unsanitary practices or a lack of attention and professionalism, you should point it out and encourage them to GET CERTIFIED!
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