Step 2
of 5
Humidity — important but easy
60–70% is ideal; most homes are already close to fine. Wine corks need humidity to stay flexible. Too dry, they shrink and let air in. Too humid, mold appears on labels.
Very dry climates (desert, heated apartments in winter) — corks dry out. A small humidifier or tray of water near bottles solves it. Tropical / coastal climates (80%+) — wine survives, labels can mold.
Wines under screw cap don't care about humidity — there's no cork to dry out.
