Oasis foam

[IanMcLean68]

I have just switched to 65% HF beads in both my humidors and am very pleased with the results. Humidity has stabilised nicely and is now rock solid.

I was using Oasis foam in both, but I have been having some issues as I live in Lithgow which is normally dry, but we have been having an unusual spell of humidity this summer. One humidor was low, and the other high.

Something a read on Wikipedia the other day - I know Wikipedia is not the most reliable source of information, but something on there caught my eye and thought I should share it with the forum.

On Wiki, it says, and I quote:

"Floral foam contains toxic elements, including formaldehyde, barium sulphates and carbon black. These elements are carcinogenic, and prolonged exposure may cause cancer. Florists who come into repeated contact with floral foam are at the highest risk of side effects.

Exposure to floral foam can cause eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation. Inhaling dust or fumes is especially damaging and can cause several respiratory issues. Skin frequently exposed to formaldehyde may become hypersensitive, resulting in contact dermatitis."

Cause for concern I reckon using them with cigars. I will never use the foam again, but mostly because of the fact it is only a one way humidification device.

[rigby]

agreed… beads are the solution.

I switched, and would not go back.

[LeafLover]

65% beads? Put em in. You'll be good. Dry box a day or two before you smoke and you'll be good. Don't stress on it.

[superconductor71]

I use both the 65% HF beads but I have also done the Oasis "mod" in which you take out the foam and replace it with super absorbant polymer crystals. Very happy with the results.

[OkieJoe]

i have a few humidors left with foam. Time to fix that.

[Laxman]

Beads all day long, made the switch a few years back and never looked back!

[helix]

Beads are best.

[Rye]

What would you guys replace the foam in the Oasis with?

[Spartan]

I use both the 65% HF beads but I have also done the Oasis "mod" in which you take out the foam and replace it with super absorbant polymer crystals. Very happy with the results.

What would you guys replace the foam in the Oasis with?

+1 Polymer crystals

[johnhenry]

If the boxes are closed I don't think it would leach in but with singles it could be bad.

[TheDistrictJP]

Been running ro\di water only in my Hydra for years, beads\KL in bags for backup. Green foam is not long term healthy for cigars.

[Profmd]

Never had a problem with the Oasis system. Have had a few over the years. Have a large cabinet humidor and beads would not be a cost effective way to go.

Don't smoke the foam and it won't be toxic!!