Strange and Bizarre Odors That Some People Love

Everyone has their own unique smell preferences, some of which are stranger than others. Why do some people seem to prefer odors that others find to be strange or downright offensive? Some of these odor preferences are based on memories or experiences from childhood.

Here are some strange and unusual smells that some people appear to love:

1. The Odor of Horse Manure

   
   
   While this odor would be offensive to most, there are people who find this smell to be quite pleasant. Here's an interesting quote, “I love it. The rich smell of horse poop, there's nothing like it anywhere." This quote is from the book Kentucky Rich by Fern Michaels. Could this person have had a very positive experience with horses that helped him to form this particular preference?

2. Gasoline Smell

   
   
   This is actually a fairly common odor preference. What makes this interesting is that the ingredients in gasoline are actually toxic in high doses which makes this a very maladaptive smell association. Most likely this positive smell association stems from a pleasant car trip taken in the past.

3. Skunk Odor

   
   
   This one is so common that there's even a website devoted to the love of skunk odors. This is one of a variety of places where closet skunk odor lovers can share their love of skunk smells. Strangely enough, there are even entrepreneurs marketing skunk colognes and perfumes.

4. Mildew Odor

   
   
   This is another strange odor preference, although not as common as the love of skunk or gasoline smells. Fortunately, as of yet, there's no one marketing a cologne called “Eau de Mildew”.

5. Pipe Smoke

   
   
   This is another rather common smell preference. Many people who have a fascination with this odor had a grandfather or father who smoked a pipe and have positive memories of the experience. Pipe smoke might be a comfort idea, somewhat similar to a comfort food.

6. Body Odor

   
   
   Why should this be an odor preference? No one knows for sure, but persons who have a strong body odor are likely sweat profusely because they are hard workers and good bread winners. This may make this scent attractive to the opposite sex who sees this as a positive attribute. Which raises the question as to why the antiperspirant and deodorant industry is so lucrative?

Now you know six strange and unique smells that some people love. There's no accounting for taste or smell, in this case.