If you’ve ever stepped outside after a thunderstorm and caught a sharp, fresh, metallic-clean smell in the air, you’ve already experienced the scent of ozone. It’s one of the most distinct smells in nature, and one that people often struggle to describe. Some love it, some find it harsh, and some associate it with danger. But what does ozone actually smell like, and why? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the scent of ozone, why it forms, why it’s so recognizable, and what scents resemble it.

What Does Ozone Smell Like?

Most people describe the smell of ozone as:

• Sharp

• Fresh

• Metallic

• Clean

• Electric

• Chemical-like

• A bit like chlorine

The best everyday descriptions include:

“The smell just before or after a lightning storm”

This is the most common association. Lightning splits oxygen molecules and creates ozone (O3), which you smell as that crisp, energizing storm scent.

“A metallic smell, like hot wire or sparks”

High voltage electrical equipment also creates small amounts of ozone, leaving behind a “charged” metallic scent.

“Like chlorine, but sharper”

Some people confuse ozone with pool chlorine because both have a biting, nose-tingling quality.

“Clean laundry on a very hot day”

UV light can create tiny amounts of ozone, giving sun-dried laundry that subtly sharp scent.

Why Does Ozone Have Such a Distinct Smell?

Ozone (O₃) is a highly reactive form of oxygen. Even in tiny amounts, it attaches to molecules in your nose, signaling danger to your brain. That’s why ozone can smell:

• invigorating

• sharp

• slightly irritating

Your body is wired to notice it. Ozone is detectable by smell at very low concentrations, around 0.01–0.03 ppm, so you can sense it long before it becomes harmful.

Is the Smell of Ozone Dangerous?

In small, natural amounts, no.

The ozone you smell after a storm or outdoors is usually harmless and dissipates quickly.

In high concentrations, yes.

Strong ozone smells indoors may come from:

• malfunctioning electrical equipment

• ozone generators

• copy machines

• UV lights

• industrial cleaning systems

If ozone smells strong indoors, the air may be unsafe. Symptoms can include:

• throat irritation

• coughing

• headaches

• shortness of breath

If you notice a powerful, lingering ozone scent, ventilate the space immediately.

What Causes the Smell of Ozone?

Thunderstorms

Lightning breaks O₂ molecules apart, forming O₃ (ozone). Wind patterns carry it down to ground level, giving that iconic “stormy” scent.

Electrical discharge

Any device that creates sparks or uses high voltage can produce ozone, including:

• welding equipment

• electric motors

• transformers

• arc lighters

• photocopiers

This is why ozone smells “electrical.”

UV-C cleaners and purifiers

Some purifiers intentionally produce ozone; others create it unintentionally through UV reactions.

Industrial processes

Factories, water treatment plants, and sterilization systems sometimes use ozone as a disinfectant.

What Does Ozone Smell Like in Different Situations?

Below are explanations for various contexts that match your related queries.

What Does Ozone Smell Like in the Rain or After a Storm?

After rain, especially thunderstorms, ozone smells:

• sharp

• clean

• bright

• slightly metallic

It’s a mix of ozone + petrichor (the earthy smell of rain hitting dry soil).

What Does Ozone Smell Like Indoors?

When smelled indoors, ozone tends to be:

• harsher

• more chemical

• more chlorine-like

• slightly irritating

Common sources include malfunctioning electronics, ozone-generating cleaners, or old fluorescent lights.

Why Do Some People Describe Ozone as Metallic?

Because ozone oxidizes metal, your brain associates it with:

• hot wires

• sparks

• electrical burns

The reaction between ozone and metal also creates additional volatile compounds that enhance the metallic scent.

What Scents Are Similar to Ozone?

If you’re trying to identify or compare the smell, ozone resembles:

Chlorine

They’re chemically different but share a sharp, nose-tingling profile.

Bleach

Ozone’s oxidizing nature creates a chemical-clean scent reminiscent of disinfectants.

Electric sparks

Think: plugging something in and seeing a tiny spark.

Photocopier smell

Some office copiers produce ozone when running heavily.

High-altitude air

At high elevations, where UV exposure is stronger, the air can smell lightly ozonic.

Why Do Some Perfumes Smell Like Ozone?

Modern perfumery uses “ozonic notes” (also called marine or aquatic notes) to mimic the clean, airy smell of fresh oxygen.

These fragrances smell:

• clean

• crisp

• watery

• airy

• slightly metallic

Common ozonic ingredients include Calone, Aldehydes, and Dihydromyrcenol.

Examples of ozonic-smelling perfumes:

• Davidoff Cool Water

• Issey Miyake L’Eau d’Issey

• Bvlgari Aqva

• CK One

These don’t smell like storm ozone exactly, more like clean “blue air.”

Is It Normal to Smell Ozone Before Lightning?

Yes. Many people smell ozone moments before a strike because:

• ozone forms in the ionized air

• wind pushes it toward the ground

• your nose detects it extremely quickly

This is why some describe it as “the smell of danger.”

Why Do Some People Smell Ozone More Strongly Than Others?

Sensitivity varies. Factors include:

• genetics

• allergies

• pregnancy (enhanced smell sensitivity)

• asthma

• prior exposure to chemicals

• environmental conditions

Some people only faintly notice ozone; others find it overpowering.

Can Humans Produce an Ozone-Like Smell?

Yes, but not actual ozone.

Some people notice an ozonic scent on skin after:

• intense exercise

• friction

• static electricity

• touching metal

This is usually from compounds released by sweat reacting with air, not ozone itself.

What Does Ozone NOT Smell Like? 

Not minty

Mint feels cool, but ozone smells sharp, not refreshing.

Not citrusy

Some cleaning sprays mix citrus oils and ozone, creating confusion.

Not exactly chlorine

Chlorine is heavier and more pungent.

Not smoky

Smoke smells earthy; ozone smells bright and clear.

Is Ozone Used on Purpose for Cleaning?

Yes, but only in controlled environments.

Ozone can:

• kill bacteria

• neutralize odors

• sanitize surfaces

Professional cleaners sometimes use ozone machines, but exposure must be limited. These devices are not safe for casual home use, if you smell a strong ozone presence from cleaning gear, leave the area.

How Long Does the Smell of Ozone Last?

The scent usually lasts:

• Minutes outdoors (disperses quickly).

• Longer indoors if ventilation is poor.

Ozone degrades rapidly back into oxygen, so the smell fades once levels drop.

How to Tell if the Ozone You Smell Is Harmful

Safe or Normal Ozone Smell

• After a storm

• Outdoors

• Faint, clean scent

• Goes away quickly

Potentially Unsafe Ozone Smell

• Strong enough to sting your nose

• Smells chemical or choking

• Coming from electronics

• Occurring indoors

• Causes headaches or coughing

• Lingers for more than 10–15 minutes

If unsafe, ventilate the area immediately.

FAQs 

What does ozone smell like?

Sharp, metallic, clean, electrical.

Why does ozone smell so strong?

Your nose detects it at very low concentrations.

What does ozone smell like in the air after rain?

Fresh, stormy, a mix of ozone + petrichor.

Is ozone harmful to breathe?

Small natural amounts = safe. High indoor levels = harmful.

Why does my house smell like ozone?

Likely from electronics, ozone cleaners, or electrical faults.

What smells are similar to ozone?

Chlorine, sparks, photocopier scent, “electricity.”

Why do perfumes use ozone notes?

To create clean, airy, aquatic fragrances.

Final Thoughts

Ozone is one of the most fascinating scents in nature, a crisp, electric, stormy smell that your body is wired to detect. While the outdoor hint of ozone after rain is refreshing and safe, strong indoor ozone should always be approached with caution. Whether you’re smelling it in nature, from an appliance, or in a fragrance, ozone’s sharp and metallic scent is unmistakable.