The 135 Rule for Cigar Humidity: A Simple Way to Keep Your Cigars Happy

The good news is, cigar storage doesn’t have to feel like rocket science—though sometimes the numbers people throw around can make it seem that way. One of the simplest guidelines you’ll ever hear in the cigar world is something called the 135 Rule. It’s not fancy, it’s not complicated, and it doesn’t require a degree in physics. It’s basically a quick mental shortcut for creating the right environment inside your humidor.

What Is the 135 Rule?

The 135 Rule says this:
Your humidor’s temperature and humidity should add up to 135.

That’s it. No charts. No spreadsheets. Just a sum.
The classic example that most cigar smokers aim for is:
70°F temperature
65% humidity
70 + 65 = 135

Versus the old-school “70/70 rule” (70°F and 70% humidity), the 135 rule is a little more flexible—and honestly, a bit more realistic for modern cigars and modern humidors.

Why 135 Matters

Cigars behave differently depending on their environment. Too much humidity and they swell, burn unevenly, or even grow mold. Too little humidity and they dry out, crack, and burn hot. Temperature affects them just as much.

The 135 Rule works because:

Higher temperature means you can get away with slightly lower humidity.
Lower temperature means you might need slightly higher humidity.
The balance keeps cigars stable, burnable, and flavorful.
It’s about creating harmony, not chasing perfect numbers.
Modern Cigar Smokers Actually Prefer Lower Humidity

A lot of smokers these days prefer keeping cigars around 62–68% humidity. Why?
Because cigars burn cleaner, wrappers stay tight, and flavors get sharper rather than muddled.

If your room sits around 68–72°F, aiming for humidity in the mid-60s puts you right into that 135 sweet spot.

Examples:

68°F + 67% RH = 135
72°F + 63% RH = 135

See how painless that is?

What the 135 Rule Doesn’t Mean

It doesn’t mean you should obsess if your numbers aren’t perfect every hour of the day. Humidors breathe. They fluctuate. Cigars can take a little variation. As long as you’re near the 135 mark, you’re doing fine.

It also doesn’t mean you should push your temperature too high—anything above 74 degrees risks tobacco beetles, and nobody wants those.

Pro Tip

Do not put your premium cigars in a freezer since this is the worst place to store them. Freezers and refrigerators literally suck all the humidity out in there, so don’t do that.

Why Fridges & Freezers Are So Dry

Cooling process: As warm air inside the appliance cools, the moisture in that air condenses on the cooling coils.

Defrost cycles: Modern frost‑free freezers use fans and heaters to prevent ice buildup. That process actively removes moisture from the air.

Air circulation: Constant airflow inside the unit keeps humidity levels low, preventing condensation but also drying out food.

Result: Items left unsealed lose moisture quickly — bread goes stale, vegetables wilt, cigars crack if stored there.

How to Use the Rule in Real Life

If your temperature creeps up (summer happens), lower your humidity a touch.
If your temperature drops (winter does its thing), a little extra humidity helps.
If you stay within 62–68% humidity and 65–72°F, you’re already living in 135 territory.
It’s a simple guide to keep cigars aging evenly and smoking beautifully.

Final Thoughts

The 135 Rule is one of those little bits of cigar wisdom that just makes sense. It gives you wiggle room without letting things slip too far out of control. Whether you’re running a traditional humidor, a wineador, or a desktop box that’s seen better days, this rule keeps everything in check.

Keep the total around 135, relax, and let your cigars age the way they’re meant to. After all, cigars are supposed to be enjoyed—not stressed over.

Cigar Reviews

What is the 135 Rule for Cigar Humidity ?