How to Save a Half Smoked Cigar

Discover the secret to preserving the flavors and the art of properly extinguishing a cigar for future enjoyment!

A cigar is a luxury indulgence that deserves to be savored, and knowing how to save a Half Smoked cigar helps you achieve this.

Properly extinguishing and storing a partially smoked cigar becomes crucial in preserving its flavor and quality for later enjoyment. 

In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps involved in saving a half-smoked cigar and the best practices for storing it.

  • Start by Extinguishing a Cigar Properly
  • Storing the Extinguished Cigar
  • Moisture Maintenance
  • Things to Pay Attention to When Relighting a Cigar

Step 1- Start by Extinguishing a Cigar Properly

When it comes to extinguishing a cigar, you should never treat it like a cigarette. Improperly extinguishing a cigar can result in an unpleasant taste and uneven burn when relit. Follow these steps to ensure a proper extinguishing process:

Don't stub it out

Unlike a cigarette, a cigar should not be stubbed out against an ashtray. This can cause the tobacco to become crushed and make the relighting process challenging. Stubbing out a cigar can also release unpleasant odors and interfere with the flavor for later enjoyment.

Allow the cigar to rest

Let the cigar rest and extinguish naturally on its own. Place the cigar on a clean ashtray and allow it to go out on its own without any intervention. This ensures a more even and complete burn, ready for relighting when you're ready to continue smoking.

Brush off any ash gently

Once the cigar has naturally extinguished, use a soft brush or your fingers to gently remove any loose ash from the foot of the cigar. Avoid aggressively tapping or knocking the cigar, as this can damage the delicate construction and loosen the wrapper. Removing excess ash helps prevent any unpleasant flavors from mixing with the remaining tobacco when relit.

Step 2 - Storing the Extinguished Cigar

Now that your cigar is properly extinguished, it's time to store it for later enjoyment. Here are the steps to follow:

Determine the Proper Container

Choosing the right container is crucial to maintain the freshness and quality of the extinguished cigar. Ideally, you should store the cigar in a humidor, as it provides the optimal environment for maintaining humidity levels. If you don't have access to a humidor, a simple alternative is using a Ziplock bag with a damp sponge. This makeshift solution can help preserve the cigar's moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Avoid Plastic Bags or Non-Airtight Containers

Plastic bags or non-airtight containers should be avoided as they offer minimal moisture control and air circulation. These containers can cause the cigar to dry out or become vulnerable to mold growth. The goal is to create an environment that retains humidity without allowing excessive moisture or air exposure.

Step 3 - Moisture Maintenance

Proper moisture maintenance is essential for preserving the quality and taste of a partially smoked cigar. Here’s what you should consider.

Relative Humidity Level

Keep in mind that cigars prefer a humidity level between 65% and 72%. Ensure that the container you choose helps maintain this humidity range. Moisture levels that are too low can cause the cigar to dry out, while excessive moisture can lead to mold growth and a compromised smoking experience.

Boveda Packs or Humidification Devices

To ensure consistent humidity levels, you can include a Boveda pack or other humidification devices in the storage container. These packs are designed to release or absorb moisture, depending on the surrounding humidity conditions. They help maintain a stable humidity level and preserve the cigar's freshness.

Things to Pay Attention to When Relighting a Half-Smoked Cigar

After carefully preserving the cigar, sooner or later, the time will come for you to relight it. Below, you’ll find a few of our final tips for successfully preserving and relighting the cigar, that will maximize your enjoyment. 

Smoke It Within a Couple of Days

Try to smoke the extinguished cigar within a few days to prevent significant flavor changes or loss. As time goes by, the flavors can dissipate, making the smoking experience less enjoyable. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that the cigar's flavor will be compromised.

Ensure Direct Flame Contact

When you're ready to relight the cigar, make sure to toast the foot adequately. This means holding the cigar above the flame, ensuring that the heat evenly chars the tobacco. Avoid letting the flame come into direct contact with the wrapper as it can leave a bitter taste. Taking care during the relighting process helps maintain the desired flavors.