Is A Coolidor The Same As A Humidor?

A coolidor is an informal term referring to a humidor (a case or a room intended for cigar store) that is homemade.  Many cigar lovers find that owning a coolidor is more convenient than buying a full sized cigar humidor.  The intent of a humidor is to provide proper storage for cigars, cigarettes or tobacco.  Ideally, a cigar owner wants to keep the cigars moist; therefore, the room must be kept moist.
A coolidor is a relatively new method used to store large quantities of cigars and is the cheaper means of storage.  Let's face it, cigar enthusiast or not, not everyone can afford expensive cases or rooms.  Therefore, many people are looking for cheap commercial coolidors or building their own coolidors from common products.  It is relatively easy to create your own coolidor.
To start with, ensure that the cooler you are using is completely airtight.  You cannot use any vessel or container; only a cooler that is airtight, so that it can keep in the humidity.  The bead system is a cheap way to provide humidity to a small area.  These specially calibrated humidification beads provide a buffer area, and all without the use of any extra chemicals.
You simply stick the bag of beads into the cooler and let them handle moisture release.  Using distilled water only, you can spray the beads whenever the cooler is low on moisture.  This will be evident because the beads will turn white.  When the beads are clear, they are full of moisture.  You might also benefit from a hygrometer, which is a measuring piece that can read to you the precise humidity measurement.  The standard range is more or less 70%.  These measuring tools are less than $20 so it makes for a smart buy.
Once the coolidor unit is set up, you can start storing cigars, cigarettes, pipes and cigar cutters.  Aside from humidity, there is also an important issue of cleanliness.  Be sure the cooler is clean before starting a coolidor system.  Try to clean it thoroughly without the use of chemicals, so no leftover smell taints the cigars.  This is a great option if you are looking for a containment area that's smaller than a room but larger than a cigar box.  You need a place to keep your accessories and a coolidor will keep them safe and smoke-able for months on end.