A family friend gave me lots of pans and other things today! Without researching any prices, I would guess it would value close to $200 worth.

I am so thankful. All I have to do is clean it up. They have been strictly in storage for years. They're really dirty and smell (she's a heavy smoker) but other than that, they're in perfect shape. I plan on hosing them off outside first then hand washing inside. Would it be safe to put them in the dishwasher so I can use the sterilize option?

Not sure if it's an important note, but they're Wilton brand.

Normally I don't put my pans in the dishwasher. But I would make an exception in this case. Nice of her to give you the pans but sometimes free isn't worth it. If they clean up well good for you. If not your not out anything except a little time and soap.

My uncle bought some pans at a garage sale, and I did put them in the dishwasher. They discolored some, but they still work well. If you don't mind them not being shiney, go for it!

I probably wouldn't risk the dishwasher and if they are that bad are you gonna be happy with your other dishes being washed in there afterwards. I'd use a steam cleaner ( if you don't have one one of your friends is bound to ) on them for sterilisation then give them a good old scrub.
Just a suggestion

I'd start with a long soak in a vinegar / water mix to cut grease, oil and deodorize (heavy on the vinegar)

then into the dishwasher (which probably will discolor them -- but that only affects "pretty" and not function. they'll still work just fine. After all, i'm not hanging my pans on the wall for decoration! and my pots and pans do look lovingly used)

then, if concerned about residue in dishwasher -- just run it empty for one cycle (with soap of course) --- like running the washer to clean it after using it to dye fabric (does anyone do that any more?) or to clear it out of bleach residue before putting in delicate colors.

I spread out everything this evening and hosed it down really well. They're not as bad as I first thought. A good cleaning and they'll be good to go. I'm going to put them in the dishwasher, though. Just to make sure. I don't care if they discolor. Like Doug said, I won't be hanging them up for decoration!

Thanks, everyone!

I had great success with the pans! They're nearly perfect, even with being washed in the dishwasher! The only pans that did a color change on me were the mini muffin pans. I'm so pleased!