Is it ok to store tinned pans in a damp basement?

[karykat]

I have a bunch of good tinned pans -- flan pans in different sizes and shapes.

I have to put them into storage. Will they be ok in a damp basement? Not wet. Just a bit damp.

Want to be sure the finish doesn't wear off or something.

Thanks much.

[kaleokahu]

Tin is relatively inert, but it will oxidize and darken over time, regardless of dampness. The only real danger is that your pans' understrates will rust or make copper salts through scratches, etc. in the linings.

If you want to keep the tin shiny, you should at least wax the surfaces with a natural carnauba wax. Better yet, lacquer them with an easily-stripable lacquer before you store them.

[karykat]

What kind of lacquer would you use and how would you get it off?

I bought some copper pans once. Think one was a jam making shallow pan. And I think that had a coating on it that you could remove. Wonder if that was the same stuff.

The mineral oil or vaseline sounds easy to put on and take off.

[kaleokahu]

kary: I'm not sure of the lacquer, but you should check on what Borgeat or Falk uses to transport their new pans--easy to strip off. The oil sounds good, but comes. wipes, drips off too easily--ask anyone who has tried to store guns in wet environments.

[The 1st and only KSyrahSyrah]

Use mineral oil or vaseline and oil the tops and bottoms.