Humidor Humidity Guide: Boveda 69% vs 72% vs 62%
By Ron’s Cigar Store | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Tips & Care
Learn the differences between Boveda 69%, 72%, and 62% humidity packs and choose the right one for your cigars and climate.
Quick answer
Choose Boveda 69% for most premium cigars in a sealed humidor, Boveda 72% if your humidor leaks or you live in a dry climate, and Boveda 62% for milder smokes or when you prefer a slightly drier draw.
Why relative humidity (RH) matters for cigars
Cigars stored at the wrong humidity can burn unevenly, taste harsh, or develop mold. Boveda two-way packs both add and absorb moisture to maintain a steady RH, so picking the right percentage is key.
Trade-offs to consider
A higher RH (72%) offers more buffer against dry air but increases mold risk in a tight humidor. A lower RH (62%) reduces mold worries but may make cigars feel too dry in arid conditions. Your storage setup and local climate matter as much as the pack rating.
Frequently asked questions
- What RH should I use for premium cigars?
- Most premium cigars store best at 69% RH. Use Boveda 69% 60g packs in a well-sealed humidor for consistent results.
- When would I pick 72% over 69%?
- If your humidor leaks humidity or you live in a very dry climate, 72% compensates for moisture loss. It's also useful for short-term storage of very dry cigars. Monitor your hygrometer; if RH stays below 65%, step up to 72%.
- Is 62% ever the right choice?
- Yes, for milder cigars or if you prefer a firmer, drier draw. It's also a safer bet in airtight containers like tupperdors where higher RH can cause mold. Check your cigars after a week—if they feel spongy, drop to 62%.
- Can I mix different RH packs in the same humidor?
- No. Mixing packs with different RH ratings will cause them to fight each other, wasting their lifespan. Stick to one target RH per storage space.
- How many packs do I need?
- Use one 60g pack per 25-count capacity of your humidor. For larger humidors or leaky lids, add an extra pack to maintain stability. Place packs on different shelves for even coverage.
Boveda packs at a glance
- Boveda 69% 60g: 69% RH is the most popular RH for premium cigars. It's the go-to choice for most humidors because it balances preservation and smoking readiness.
Boveda 69% 60g - Boveda 72% 8g: Boveda 72% 8g pack offers two-way humidity control. The 72% level suits leaky humidors or very dry environments where extra moisture is needed to stay in the ideal range.
Boveda 72% 8g - Boveda 62% 60g: Boveda 62% 60g pack provides steady 62% RH. This lower RH is preferred by some smokers for a slightly drier draw and less risk of over-humidification in tight containers.
