Do you know what a hygrometer is? If you are finding yourself a bit confused right now, don’t be. You probably know what it is, or what it looks like, you just might not be familiar with the term.
A hygrometer is basically an instrument which measures the level of humidity. How is this important for cigar enthusiasts? Humidity is the keyword here. You should know that when it comes to storing cigars, humidity is a key factor. That is where the hygrometer enters the picture. If you have a humidor, a hygrometer should also be present. There are many different kinds of hygrometer but the important thing for you to do is to calibrate it before you start storing your cigars. How do you do this?
About.com gives detailed and practical instructions:
1. Fill a milk bottle cap or other small container with salt, and add a few drops of water (not enough to dissolve the salt).
2. Put the cap inside of a baggie or plastic container along with your hygrometer, and seal the bag.
3. Wait 6 hours, then check the reading on your hygrometer without opening the bag (or immediately after removing). If the reading is 75%, then your hygrometer is accurate and no adjustment is required.
4. If the reading is not precisely 75%, then adjust the hygrometer to 75% by turning the screw or dial on the back. This must be done immediately after removing from the bag or container, before room conditions cause the reading to change.
Now isn’t that simple enough?