Question for cigar smokers
 

These cigars are in a zip lock pouch with a smaller zip lock with some kind of beads in it. I assume they have something to do with humidifying the cigars.
My question is, do I just keep these cigars in the pouch? What do I do with the beads?


http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1705882692.jpg

Back story:
I'm not a cigar guy, but I occasionally enjoy one with my son in law. I do like a little Punch miniature with a cocktail by the pool now and then, but he brings me these giant cigars that last all day. He is family and I don't want to hurt his feelings, so I smoke one with him a few times a year.
So yesterday he brought me these, with a torch and a clipper - no small expense for him, so I want to keep them for the next time he's around.

Desiccant probably.

Keep the beads moist for the humidity.

I’ve kept mine in the bag for years. Still supple and fresh. lol

They're like the polymer beads that get mixed with potting soil, they hold water and gently release it.
Cigar nerds have moved on to something similar-a thing called a Boveda pack (brand name). Its a polymer behind a membrane that is permeable and both absorbs and releases humidity. They come in specific humidity ratings, use 60% for cigars (and your stash of weed if that's your thing)

Thanks Greg.
So how do I manage these things? Do I take them out of their little zip lock one at a time, all at once, soak them in water or what?

Yeah, take them out and soak them, put them back in the little baggie unsealed. Once every couple months will do it. Some folks use polyglycol as it humidifies but doesn't evap as quickly, but for your purposes water will do.

Smoke 'em if ya got 'em.. they don't age like fine wine. The beads seem like a useful invention, a chemistry humidor.

Thanks guys. I know what to do with these now.
Thanks again.