Do you crack...

[MichaelD]

So perhaps a silly question, but when you guys first store boxes in your humidor, do crack them open? I get that in time even a closed box with adjust to the relative humidity level within the humidor, but I figured storing them initially would accelerate the process so that I can enjoy a rested cigar sooner. I've been using the little lock hinges to keep the box lids cracked open. Stupid idea?

Thanks in advance.

 

[MadMonk]

I've never done it mainly because I figure that the box is probably halfway decently humidified. Years ago, I used to wrap a damp towel around a box, overnight, if it took a while to arrive from the vendor.

 

[giannilibrizzi]

I used to do that when I had a smaller rotation of cigars, so that I could smoke the cigars sooner... Now that I have enough stock to choose from, I let the boxes closed, and they just rest as is untill I have the urge to smoke them....

Guess it also depends on the condition of the box once it gets to you.... If properly humidified upon arrival, and you have a properly maintained and seasoned humidor, they should be ok from the get go.....

 

[lherzolite]

I'll open them for inspection.  Several years ago I bought a box where the sticks were almost completely covered with mold.  Although this has happened only once, it just seems prudent to inspect a box when it arrives.

 

[MichaelD]

I always inspect them, perhaps even gently stroke them and whisper sweet nothings to them... My precious. Oh wait, what were we talking about again?

But yes, I for sure take a look. I guess once I can't stack them without cause a Jenga topple, I'll keep them closed. Thanks guys.

 

[BlindedByScience]

I always open the box and give the cigars a careful look before they go into the humidor.

 

[whylieineedacigar]

After inspecting the boxes, I close them completely and then place them on the most humid part of my humidor.

 

[Brickhouse]

Completely closed for me.  But I stack a bunch, so there's really no way to have any cracked open even if I wanted to.

 

[looking for knowledge]

Open the box and inspect. I usually take a couple out and put them in a desktop, then play cooler tetris with the box.