Does Pipe Tobacco Need to Be Moisturized?

The question of whether pipe tobacco needs to be moisturized keeps popping up in social media. We are also frequently asked this question at events.

Moist - but not too much!

Cigar smokers are familiar with this topic from their brown treasures, but just like your cigars, you should never treat your pipe tobacco this way. A Mac Baren, Dunhill, or Stanwell tin has no place in the humidor. In the humidor, it would become too moist and likely spoil the humidor forever with its own aroma.

Pipe tobacco is often delivered too moist these days. This is due to reasons mainly related to the storage conditions of retailers. A pouch of pipe tobacco in a small lottery and tobacco shop can sit for a year or longer before being sold. To prevent it from drying out, manufacturers add extra moisture, which helps keep the tobacco fresh for a longer time. Fresh pouches or tins should never be moistened – unless the vacuum seal of the package has been damaged. Otherwise, let the tobacco air out for at least 24 to 48 hours to enjoy it optimally.

If pipe tobacco is too moist, it becomes hard to light, makes loose packing significantly more difficult, and the smoke becomes harsh. The pipe may also gurgle and go out more frequently. Additionally, you will notice that the pipe becomes much hotter, and the cleaning needs increase. Of course, the tobacco can also suddenly start to mold. In short: Smoking too moist tobacco or carelessly moisturizing pipe tobacco is not a good idea.

Aromatic tobaccos require slightly more moisture than natural tobaccos. However, moisture should only be added if the tobacco has truly become too dry. Aromatic tobaccos should still feel a little "soft" – but should never be sticky or wet. Natural blends – especially those with Latakia – can start to "rustle". However, the tobacco should not become so dry that it crumbles to dust when touched. If you measure the humidity, the value should not exceed 55%.

Humidrole or Boveda Packs

If the tobacco has become too dry, there are several ways to moisturize it again. But this should really only be a last resort! There are simple Humidrole packs, which are soaked with water and placed into the tobacco packaging. It is important, however, that the Humidrol is removed from the tobacco once it is sufficiently moistened.

The well-known Boveda packs also ensure the necessary moisture. Here too, make sure to remove the pack once the tobacco is properly moistened.

Beware of Old Home Remedies!

In general, it is best to avoid home remedies "from Grandpa's time". If you want to avoid mold, do not use potato, apple, or orange peels for moisturizing.

Pipe tobacco feels most comfortable when you let it air out and dry as needed, and then store it in a relatively airtight glass container. In this way, the tobacco does not need to be re-moistened even with regular openings, and it can age beautifully.

In general, it can be said that pipe tobacco feels much more comfortable when it is dry rather than too moist. Also, your pipe's smoking behavior will thank you for using minimal moisture and deliver a wonderful smoking experience.

Thanks to Patrick Furrer for the photo of the moldy tobacco.