Is It OK to Put Cigars in the Freezer?

Cigars are delicate natural tobacco leaves that require proper storage to maintain their flavor and quality.

A common question among cigar smokers is whether it’s okay to put cigars in the freezer.

The short answer: it’s not recommended. Here’s why.

Why Some People Freeze Cigars

The idea of freezing cigars often stems from the desire to kill tobacco beetle larvae.

These invasive beetles lay eggs on tobacco leaves prior to being picked and dried.

Which can infest cigars. Freezing can effectively eliminate these pests, but it’s not a fool proof solution and can harm your cigars if not done correctly.

Risks of Freezing Cigars

Cigars absorb and release moisture. When cigars are frozen, the sudden drop in temperature can cause the oils and moisture in the tobacco to dry out or freeze.

This can lead to cracked wrappers, a loss of flavor, and a diminished smoking experience.

Thawing frozen cigars is another challenge.

If cigars are removed from the freezer too quickly, condensation can form, potentially ruining the cigar’s delicate construction.

Best Practices for Cigar Storage

To avoid the need for freezing, proper storage is essential.

A humidor is the ideal solution for maintaining your cigars in a stable environment.

Aim for a humidity level of 62–70% and a temperature between 65–70°F to prevent beetles and preserve quality.

If you must freeze cigars due to an infestation, do so carefully. Place them in an airtight bag, gradually lower the temperature in stages.

The best way to do this is to first place them in the fridge for a couple days.

Then from the fridge to the freezer for at least a week.

Remove the cigars from the freezer and then reverse those steps by placing the frozen cigars inside the fridge and thaw them slowly over several days.

Furthermore, use a couple of Boveda packs to help remove excess moisture, start with a 62% Boveda pack for a few days and then a 65% for a couple more days.

Once this is done you can then place them back inside your humidor.

Final Thoughts

While freezing cigars can be a last resort to address tobacco beetles.

The freezer is not a recommended storage method.

Invest in proper humidification tools, like Spanish cedar airflow racks and Boveda packs.

This ensures your cigars remain fresh and flavorful. Your cigars—and your palate—will thank you!