Welcome to Cigar Press’s no-BS Cigar FAQ — where we answer the questions you were too proud (or too drunk) to ask at the lounge. From cutting and lighting to storage, etiquette, and why your cigar keeps burning sideways, we’ve got it covered.
Think of this as your unofficial guide to not looking like a rookie — delivered with just enough sarcasm to keep you honest (and keep me interested).
If you’re still asking, “Do I really need a humidor?” or “Why did my cigar taste like a tire fire?” — this page is for you. Pull up a chair, pour something decent, and let’s fix that cigar game.
We’ll keep this short, probably sarcastic, and occasionally helpful.
I. The Basics: Lighting, Cutting, and Not Embarrassing Yourself
How do I cut a cigar without wrecking it?
Use a sharp cutter. Cut just above the cap — that’s the little round part that keeps your cigar from unraveling. If you hack off half the cigar, you’ve made a $10 pile of tobacco confetti. Clean, quick, confident. If you’re unsure, read more about proper cuts.
What’s the right way to light a cigar?
Toast it gently, don’t roast it like a marshmallow. Use a butane torch or wooden match, and rotate until it glows evenly. If your cigar looks like a campfire, you’re doing it wrong. Torch or Soft flame? See our full guide on lighting cigars.
Can I use a Zippo?
You can, but your cigar will taste like it was dipped in gas station fumes. Use butane — it burns clean and doesn’t ruin flavor. Save the Zippo for lighting dynamite or bad decisions. If you really want to rock that Sons of Anarchy Zippo, go buy one of these insert conversion kits to make it a butane burner.
Should I inhale cigar smoke?
Only if you enjoy coughing up your soul. Cigars are for tasting, not inhaling. Let the smoke roll around your mouth, enjoy the flavor, then exhale like a civilized human.
How long should a cigar last?
Until it is done? Ok, it depends on size and how fast you puff. A robusto usually runs about 45 minutes to an hour. If you’re done in 10 minutes, slow down — it’s a cigar, not a race. Some cigar sizes are ruined by smoking too fast (hellooooo, talking to you lanceros).
How do I ash a cigar like a pro?
Wait until the ash is about an inch long, then, if you really have to, gently tap it off. If it doesn’t want to go…leave alone. Don’t flick it like a cigarette, and definitely don’t stab it into the tray. Long ash = cool burn = better smoke.
Can I relight a cigar later?
Yes, but do it soon. Knock off the ash, blow out the stale smoke, and relight gently. After a few hours, it’ll taste like a campfire and regret.
Should I take the band off? Use a fancy drinking glass?
If you want to. Leave it on for a few minutes so the glue warms up, then peel gently. If you rip the wrapper, that’s on you. Some keep the band for style, others for subtle bragging. Both are fine. As for the glass…you are a grown-up, don’t do this.
Should I dip my cigar in whiskey or rum?
No. That’s not “seasoning” — that’s cigar abuse. Pair your drink in a glass, not on the cigar. Dipping just makes it soggy and sad.
How do I put a cigar out the right way?
Don’t crush it like a cigarette. Just set it down and let it go out on its own. It’ll die gracefully, unlike your social reputation if you grind it into an ashtray and walk off.
II. Size, Shape, and the Great Cigar Identity Crisis
What do names like Robusto or Churchill mean?
They’re just size nicknames — not secret codes (not like that dude that came up with Estelí Lot 8613, S-307, and C-276). A Robusto is short and stout, a Churchill is long and dramatic. Think “fun-size” versus “full commitment.”
Does size or ring gauge change the flavor?
Absolutely. Bigger cigars burn cooler and usually have more filler flavor; thinner ones hit harder with wrapper taste. Both have their place — kind of like bourbon and espresso.
Are box-pressed cigars better?
They’re square because someone decided circles were boring. Box-pressed cigars feel nice in the hand, burn a bit slower, and look cool — but they’re not automatically better. It’s just cigar fashion. For Box Pressed and Other sizes, check this out.
III. Storage: Because Your $300 Humidor Deserves More Than Neglect
Do I really need a humidor?
If you like your cigars fresh, yes. Otherwise, enjoy your dry, cracking souvenirs. A humidor keeps them at 70% humidity and 70°F (or whatever range you like) — the cigar equivalent of spa treatment. Learn more about humidors how many cigars you need.
How do I season a humidor?
Don’t just toss cigars in dry wood and pray. Go to Boveda and get a seasoning kit. I could talk for hours about not hosing down your humidor with a sponge and water…but I’m really trying to take a few tips from my therapist and not criticize others. More here.
What’s the right humidity and temperature?
Aim for 65–70% humidity and 65–70°F. Go much higher and you could be running a mold farm. Go lower and your cigars will crumble like old bread. Consistency beats perfection.
Should I keep cigars in their cellophane or tubes?
Keep the cello on unless you are trying to age THE SAME cigars together. Tubes? Crack the lid so they breathe. Cigars need air, not suffocation.
Can I keep cigars in the fridge?
Only if you want to ruin them and you are worried someone wanted that space for Kale. Fridges are too cold and too dry. You’ll end up with cigars that crack and taste like leftovers. Just… don’t.
Should I age cigars?
Sure, if you have patience. A few months to a few years can mellow and blend the flavors. Just don’t “age” them by forgetting they exist in your trunk. Read our cigar aging guide.
IV. Common Problems (and How to Pretend You Know What You’re Doing)
How do I fix a dry cigar?
Put it in a humidor or sealed box with a humidity pack and let it recover slowly. Don’t wet it or microwave it (yes, people have tried). Patience saves wrappers — not panic.
What if my cigars are too wet?
Open the humidor for a bit, add some cedar if you feel like another project, and chill. Don’t blast them with a fan or hair dryer. Over-humidified cigars smoke like wet firewood.
What’s that white powder — mold or magic?
If it wipes off clean, it’s harmless plume. If it’s fuzzy, blue, or smells like death, it’s mold. One is brag-worthy, the other is garbage. Know the difference. [Side Note: It’s 99.5% chance it’s mold]
What are tobacco beetles and how do I keep them away?
Tiny demons that eat cigars when it gets too warm. Keep your humidor below 70°F and you’ll never meet one. If you do — freeze, clean, and curse accordingly.
Why is my cigar burning unevenly?
Before you run out to Instagram and try and shame the manufacture, know two things. One, it is a handmade product, sh** happens. Two, there is a good chance your storage humidity (or lack thereof) came into play. Thee (ok, a bonus answer) You may lit it wrong or smoked too fast. Slow down, rotate, and use your lighter to even it out. No one’s judging — well, not out loud anyway.
Why is the wrapper unraveling?
Most of the time, you cut too much off the cap, it’s too dry, or the cigar hates you (my favorite). Moisture is key — and don’t slice the cap like you’re opening a package from Amazon.
What do I do if a cigar is plugged or too tight?
Roll it gently, or poke it with a draw tool. If it’s still tighter than your jeans after Thanksgiving, toss it. Life’s too short for bad airflow.
Why does my cigar make me dizzy or nauseous?
Nicotine, my friend. Eat something, smoke slower, and skip the full-bodied stuff until you’re ready. It’s a cigar, not an Olympic event. In a bind on the whole thing? Grab a packet of sugar and put it under your tongue (I feel like I need to say “take it out of the packet first.”).
V. Etiquette & Lounge Survival Skills
How should I behave in a cigar lounge?
Be cool. Don’t blow smoke in people’s faces, don’t brag about who you know, and for the love of tobacco, don’t ask someone to relight your cigar. Common sense = class. Don’t be THAT guy.
Can I bring my own cigars?
Ask first. Some lounges charge a cutting fee, others will toss you out. Buy something from the shop if you’re hanging around — it’s good karma and keeps the lights on. It’s someone’s business, not a free public library. You want to be able to go there again? Contribute to the cause.
What’s the deal with cigar etiquette — am I overthinking this?
Probably. Just relax, don’t be obnoxious, and don’t correct anyone else’s technique (unless they ask). Cigars are about enjoyment, not showing off your YouTube research.
About the Author: Fred Rewey
