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A humidification unit is a device attached to the inner lid of the humidor that includes a housing and a substance to hold the moisture. The size of the device is relative to the size of the humidor. Naturally, the larger the humidor, the larger the required humidification device. The most common material used is plastic. The material has no influence on the performance of the device, and is selected principally for cosmetic reasons.
There are several types of humidifiers; among the most widely used is the Credo type humidifier. This device is essentially a plastic container with holes. Inside, the container is filled with foam or sponge. The foam is usually oasis green foam like the one used by florists for flower arrangements and it is soaked in a propylene glycol and distilled water activation solution. The purpose of the solution is to both kill bacteria and help maintain a 70% relative humidity. The Credo type humidifier needs to be recharged with distilled water frequently. The frequency depends on your climate and will vary from every week to every 2 months. It also needs to be recharged with activation solution every 6 months to a year.
A variation of the Credo type humidifier is the Western Humifier and Torpedo. These humidifiers undergo a special process at the factory so that they only require to be recharged with distilled water. Propylene glycol is not necessary.
Another type of humidifier is the electronic humidifier. They are more reliable and require less maintenance than the passive foam or sponge humidifiers. Usually all you need to do with electronic humidifiers is replace or refill the water cartridge every year. As an added bonus, many electronic humidifiers, like the Cigar Oasis, contain a filter to eliminate odors inside the humidor. For these reasons, they are the accessory of choice for large humidors and display cases. Electronic humidifiers, however, are more expensive than sponge or foam humidifiers.