Curio Cabinets and Fumes? (1 Viewer)

[Lo1863]

Hello all! A couple years back I had some paint flaking with my collection and it was discussed vastly on the forum. I didn't discover this until after keeping them in storage here at my new place in my spare bedroom with most being wrapped in small plastic bubble bags. Before that they were displayed in my curio cabinet I bought.

Anyway I was cleaning the inside of my empty curio and was planning on displaying my much smaller collection now in there. I happen to notice there is a smell on the inside of the curio that seems to be the fumes from the finish. It's not a super strong smell, but I was wondering if this is something to be concerned about as far as affecting the paint on my figures? Below is a link to the curio I have. It says it's solid northern oak with a cherry finish. You can read more details about it...

http://www.philipreinischcompany.co...se/item/117-58282-manifestation-curio-cabinet

Any feedback and opinions on this would be much appreciated. I'm probably being a little paranoid, but I don't want to risk causing harm again to my collection. Thank you!

 

[Al Fisher]

Sorry, but oak cabinets are difinitely a no-no for lead soldiers. There are a number of wooden fire engine models with lead details here at the San Diego Fire House Museums that have been destroyed this way. The lead parts have turned to gray dust (so-called lead rot), thus destroying the models. Don't know if the oaks affects pewter . . . probably not resin . . . but why take a chance? There are a number of articles on the Internet discussing ship models that have been similarly destroyed should you be interested.

Bosun Al

 

[blaster]

Hi,

The fumes could be paraformaldehyde which is used as an adhesive or thinner from the varnish etc? If so, some airing of the cupboard should eventually clear the smell. These are detrimental to your health.
https://www.danielsantiques.com/?blog=need-know-formaldehyde-furniture

Bosun Al's point about oak furniture is a separate matter and is more relevant to the toy soldiers.

Rgds Victor

 

[Lo1863]

Just to note...I've had this cabinet since 2015.

 

[blaster]

Hi Cameron,

Perhaps a musty smell? It might be mold, mildew. Still a health issue.
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/tips/a22126/prevent-mildew/

Rgds Victor

 

[Lo1863]

Perhaps a musty smell? It might be mold, mildew. Still a health issue.

Ummm...no

 

[Lo1863]

Anyone else have some thoughts or opinions on the curio?

 

[Arnhemjim]

Gentlemen,
Suggest you might want to look at a "Goldenrod" device. Only reservation, how well it can be positioned in the bottom of the curio cabinet, and how much valuable display space it will take up. See; https://www.leevalley.com/en-us/shop/tools/workshop/tool-maintenance/69378-goldenrod-dehumidifier . Works extremely well in a gun safe. Must admit I haven't had much occasion to use it, since I retired to Arizona from California. It's made in the U.S.A.! Too bad it isn't as effective against Coronavirus.
Best regards and stay healthy,
Arnhem Jim
Arizona Territory