Do Metal Tins Handle Freezing Temperatures?

Do Metal Tins Freeze or Crack?

The metal material of a metal tin itself is rarely the problem in freezing weather. The risk is what is inside. If a metal tin holds a water-based liquid or food, freezing makes the contents expand, which can snap seams, bulge the metal, or rupture the tin. A 16 oz silver metal tea tin holding dry tea faces very different conditions from a tin holding something wet or water-based. For products that may be exposed to freezing temperatures, consider the contents' freezing point and how much they expand, as well as whether the tin has enough room to accommodate that expansion.

Which Products Are Safest in Metal Tins

Dry goods, balms, and salves are generally less likely to cause trouble in the cold than products with a lot of water in them, though this depends on the formula. Square and round metal tins with clear view tops are often used for balms, bath salts, and dry blends. Metal tins are not recommended for liquid or water-based products.

Condensation When Tins Move From Cold to Warm

A cold tin brought into a warm, humid room can collect condensation on its outside, and moisture left on bare metal can lead to rust or damage a printed label. Letting tins warm up gradually in their shipping carton before unpacking helps limit this.

Check Lids and Seams After Cold Storage

After cold storage, check that lids still fit, that hinge top tins and slide top tins still move freely, and that seams are intact. For definitions of tin parts such as seams and covers, see our metal packaging glossary.

Test a Sample First

Pack a few tins with your real product, leave them in the coldest place they are likely to sit, and inspect the lids, seams, and contents once they warm up. SKS Bottle offers free samples to help with the testing process. Browse our full range of metal tins to find a size and style to test.