Selecting the correct relative humidity (RH) level is one of the most important decisions when setting up a controlled storage environment. Different materials respond differently to moisture, and choosing the right RH level ensures stability, prevents damage, and supports long‑term preservation.
Each RH Shield device is preconditioned to maintain a specific humidity level—60%, 65%, or 70%—using all‑natural silica beads that regulate moisture in both directions. The beads automatically add humidity when the environment is too dry and absorb humidity when it is too wet, creating a stable, self‑balancing environment.
Understanding RH Levels
RH Shield devices are available in three humidity ratings:
- 60% RH – Dry‑leaning stability
- 65% RH – Balanced, moderate humidity
- 70% RH – Higher humidity for moisture‑dependent materials
Each level creates a different environment, and the right choice depends on how much moisture the stored material needs to stay fresh, stable, or properly aged.
60% RH – Best for Dry‑Leaning Stability
60% RH provides a controlled, slightly dry environment. It prevents brittleness while avoiding excess moisture, making it ideal for materials that benefit from stability without active moisture retention.
Best uses for 60% RH:
- General long‑term storage
- Materials that are naturally moisture‑sensitive
- Situations where preventing over‑humidification is the priority
- Storage in airtight containers where moisture can accumulate
Choose 60% RH when you want predictable stability with minimal moisture influence.
65% RH – The Balanced, Universal Choice
65% RH is the most versatile humidity level. It provides a balanced environment that prevents dryness while avoiding excessive moisture. This makes it suitable for a wide range of organic materials and everyday storage needs.
Best uses for 65% RH:
- General preservation of organic materials
- Storage environments where both dryness and moisture are concerns
- Mixed‑material containers
- Long‑term freshness without aggressive aging
If you are unsure which RH level to choose, 65% RH is the safest and most universally appropriate option.
70% RH – Higher Humidity for Moisture‑Dependent Materials
70% RH provides a more humid environment designed for materials that require additional moisture to maintain texture, aroma, pliability, or controlled aging.
Best uses for 70% RH:
- Materials that dry out easily
- Storage environments with natural airflow or mild porosity
- Situations where maintaining softness or pliability is important
- Controlled aging processes that benefit from higher humidity
Choose 70% RH when moisture retention is essential and the storage container is not overly airtight.
How to Choose the Right Level
To select the correct RH level, consider:
- The material’s natural moisture content – Does it dry out easily?
- The container type – Airtight containers need lower RH; porous or wooden containers may need higher RH.
- Your storage goal – Long‑term stability, freshness, or controlled aging.
- Environmental conditions – Dry rooms may require higher RH; humid rooms may require lower RH.
Note: New wooden or porous storage environments may take longer to reach equilibrium, especially if they are not fully seasoned.
Most users find that 65% RH provides the best balance, while 60% and 70% RH serve more specialized needs.
Summary: Choosing the Right RH Level
- 60% RH – Dry‑leaning stability and moisture protection.
- 65% RH – Balanced, universal humidity for most materials.
- 70% RH – Higher humidity for moisture‑dependent storage and controlled aging.
Selecting the right RH level ensures your storage environment remains stable, predictable, and perfectly suited to the materials you want to preserve.
For best performance, recharge RH Shield devices only with distilled water.