If you are a new cigar smoker and haven’t yet delved into the process of buying your first humidor, or are looking for more storage and do not want the expense associated with buying another one, then you have come to the right place. A step above the old Tupperware cigar storage unit, the Coolerdor offers an inexpensive, do-it-yourself option that provides you with the storage and security of a normal humidor, without the financial commitment. It might not look as pretty, but it gets the job done.

 

This article will teach you how to create your very own Coolerdor, season it, and maintain it. With any luck you will have your Coolerdor up and running in no time with these simple steps.

Step One: Get Yourself a Cooler

The type of cooler you get depends on your needs and how ambitious you are feeling. If this is your first time, you may want to start with a smaller model, around 50 quarts. In my opinion though, you may as well splurge a little and grab yourself a 150 quart model.

You will want a nice, sturdy model. No Styrofoam gas station models please. Try grabbing an Igloo from your local grocery or hardware store.

One thing to consider before purchasing your cooler is where you will be placing it. Since your coolerdor is going to be used to store a nice quantity of cigars, you probably will not want to be moving it around too often.

Ideally, you will want to store it in a cool room, someplace where the temperature does not vary too greatly. For instance, you would not wish to place it near a window or in the kitchen. Nor would you wish to place it near the front or back door, where people enter and exit the house throughout the day, causing temperature swings.

Good examples of places to store you coolerdor include a walk-in closet or a basement. You will want to make sure it is easily accessible as well, as you will likely be visiting your coolerdor frequently, for both pleasure and maintenance.

Once you find the ideal location, measure it out, keeping in mind the shape of the cooler you are going to purchase, the fact that it might have a spout that will add an inch or two, its wheels, and a top that will either slide open or swing open. You will need to have adequate space for all of those things, as well as space to actually use the coolerdor without feeling cramped.