Taking the time to relax and enjoy your cigar is something many of us look forward to all day. So, there’s nothing worse than finding that your cigar is ‘plugged’ and difficult to smoke. Thankfully, this is a rare occurrence but when it does happen, it can be frustrating. We reveal how to fix a plugged cigar and prevent it from happening again in the future.
What is a plugged cigar?
If you’re finding it hard to draw on your cigar, then it’s usually because the cigar is plugged. As premium cigars are handmade, there can be rare instances where a mistake has been made which leads to a plugged cigar, albeit an extremely rare occurrence.
You’ll find it very hard to draw a smoke when a cigar is plugged and you’ll notice a very low smoke volume. Puffing harder on the cigar won’t help and can cause unpleasantly harsh and bitter flavours.
How to fix a plugged cigar
There’s no need to despair, you can fix a plugged cigar! Here are our top tips:
1. Massage the cigar
A plugged cigar can often be caused by tight rolling or uneven bunching near the top. While most cigars are expertly rolled, it’s not uncommon for a stray leaf or two to block airflow. To fix this, you can try gently massaging the cigar with your fingers while it’s lit. Start from the foot of the cigar and work your way up to the head, using light pressure to loosen the tobacco inside. This can help clear the blockage and allow for a smoother draw. If massaging doesn’t solve the problem, it’s time to try another method. If this doesn’t work, move on to our next tip!
2. Use a skewer
If massaging doesn’t do the trick, using a skewer or similar tool can help. A metal skewer or a wooden satay stick can be inserted gently through the length of the cigar, breaking through any blockages that are causing the plug. Be cautious when doing this, as pushing too hard can damage the cigar’s structure or cause it to burn unevenly. A light hand is key here. While this method might alter the burn slightly, it can allow you to enjoy the smoke without tossing the cigar altogether.
3. Cut your cigar
If your cigar is still plugged despite your efforts, cutting it in half may be your last option. This method works best with larger cigars, such as Cohiba, Montecristo, Partagas, where you have enough length to reverse the smoking direction. By cutting the cigar and smoking it from the opposite end, you might bypass the blockage entirely. Keep in mind that this can affect the taste and burning qualities, as cigars aren’t typically designed to be smoked this way. However, it can offer a new, unexpected flavour experience, adding a unique twist to your smoke!
How to prevent a plugged cigar
Sometimes a plugged cigar can be the fault of ourselves or the environment, here are some things to look out for:
1. Avoid humidity
Over-humidified cigars can often lead to poor airflow and a difficult draw, making them feel plugged. Cigars stored in high humidity can swell, causing the tobacco to expand and block the airflow. To prevent this, ensure your humidor is properly calibrated, typically between 65% and 70% humidity. If you suspect a cigar is too humid, take it out of the humidor the night before or a few hours prior to smoking. This will help lower the moisture content, allowing for a smoother draw and a more enjoyable smoking experience.
2. Cut cigars correctly
Are you sure you cut enough off the head of the cigar? A poor cut can be the culprit behind a plugged cigar. Make sure you’re cutting enough off the head, especially with cigars that have a tapered or narrow end like a Torpedo or Belicoso. If you don’t cut enough, the draw can remain restricted, causing you to struggle for airflow. While V-cutters or punch cutters can create a tight draw, a straight cut often provides the most open and direct airflow. Experiment with different cutting styles to see which one offers the best results for your cigar.
3. Avoid excess mouth moisture
As you smoke, your cigar may become saturated with saliva, particularly at the head, which can affect the draw. Excess moisture can make the tobacco swell, leading to a plugged or tight cigar. If this happens, try cutting off the moist portion with a straight cutter to reopen the cigar and improve the airflow. Being mindful of not wetting the cigar too much while smoking can help maintain an even, consistent draw throughout your session.
Ready to enjoy a seamless smoking experience? Explore our curated selection of premium cigars, perfect for beginners and aficionados alike! Whether you’re looking to stock up on your favourites or try something new, we have the ideal options for you.
