Care & Service

Setup (minutes)

1. Open lid.
2. Place Boveda packets (see sizing & placement).
3. Add cigars.
4. Close lid and allow equilibrium (24–48 hrs).

• Boveda regulates in two directions; safe in contact with cigars.
• No activation, refilling, or water required.

Packet placement

• Distribute packets across upper and lower zones for even recovery.
• Use carriers or pockets if provided; otherwise place packets freely with vents unblocked.
• More packets = more capacity and stability, not higher RH.

84% prep cycle

• Use 84% Boveda seasoning packets for 10–15 days.
• Goal interior equilibrium: ~72–75% RH.
• Then switch to maintenance packets (69% or 72%).

Interiors & break‑in

• Interiors are unfinished, hygroscopic hardwoods (often Spanish cedar, Okoume, Mahogany).
• Fresh interiors may absorb moisture initially; expect a short break‑in period.
• Do not oil or coat interior surfaces.

Packet sizing

• 60‑gram packet per ~25 cigars (100 cigars → 4 × 60g).
• More packets = longer life & faster recovery, not higher RH.

Maintenance targets

• Choose 69% or 72% according to preference & climate.
• Typical maintained interior: 64%–72%.
• Expect readings to sit ~1–3% below the packet label.

Do / Do not

• Do not mix packets of different RH levels.
• Do not combine Boveda with other humidification systems.
• Place packets intact (do not puncture or rehydrate).
• Never wipe the unfinished interior wood with water or a damp cloth. It does not boost RH; it raises grain and can shock interior wood (and may warp lesser humidors). Centient interiors are engineered for stability, but should still be kept dry.

Replacement

• Replace when packets become stiff or hard (crystals fully formed).
• Typical life varies by opening frequency, climate, and packet count.
• Also varies with the condition of incoming cigars: drier cigars place higher initial load and can shorten first‑cycle life until equilibrium is reached.

Where it lives

• Avoid heat sources and direct sunlight/track lighting.
• Choose a calm, shaded location for finish longevity and stable RH.

Surfaces

• Avoid raw/colored surfaces that could transfer color over time.
• Felt feet protect the underlying furniture; keep surfaces dry and stable.

Coated exterior

• Wipe with microfiber/cotton using mild soap + warm water; dry immediately.
• Avoid abrasive polishes, aggressive solvents, and silicone‑heavy sprays.
• High‑gloss: use clean microfiber; avoid circular pressure that induces swirls.

Interior

• Interior wood remains unfinished—do not oil, wax, or coat.
• Do not wipe with water or a damp cloth. Keep interior surfaces dry to protect grain and geometry.
• Dust lightly if needed; avoid moisture on interior surfaces.

75% calibration kit (recommended)

1. Place the hygrometer and a 75% calibration kit in a sealed bag or container.
2. Wait 24 hours at room temperature.
3. Adjust the hygrometer to 75% RH (or note the offset if non‑adjustable).

Re‑check a few times per year or after any impact/shock.

Placement & reading

• Place the sensor mid‑volume, away from packets and walls.
• Allow 24–48 hrs after changes before judging stability.
• Expect small gradients after frequent opening—this is normal.

Reading below the packet

• Normal: readings often sit 1–3% below the packet label.
• Confirm calibration and allow adequate equilibrium time.

Slow to rise

• Confirm packet count (60g ≈ 25 cigars) and distribution across zones.
• If the interior was unseasoned, run 84% for 10–15 days first.
• New interiors may need a short break‑in period.

Reading too high

• Choose a lower RH packet (e.g., move from 72% to 69%).
• Verify calibration and sensor placement (not near packets).
• Lower‑RH packets actively pull moisture from the air—and gradually from surrounding wood and ambient—until the new equilibrium is reached.

Common myths

• Myth: More packs over‑humidify. Fact: They cannot exceed their set point.
• Myth: Mix packet RHs to fine‑tune. Fact: Don’t—use one RH value only.
• Myth: Rehydrate spent packs. Fact: Replace; do not re‑activate.

We’re here to help

Questions about humidity, interiors, hardware, or finish care? We’ll assist with adjustments and long‑term upkeep.

Contact Centient Support

Supplies

• Boveda 84% (seasoning), 69% or 72% (maintenance).
• Digital hygrometer; 75% calibration kit.
• Microfiber/cotton cloths; mild soap for exterior.