Why does my egg cooker smell damp or stale after storage?

A damp or stale smell usually means moisture was left inside the cooker or on the removable parts after the previous use. The manuals advise cleaning with a damp cloth, letting the appliance cool down first and drying it fully before storage. fileciteturn0file11turn0file10

1. Unplug the appliance and open it only once it is fully cool. If any condensation is present, wipe it away.
2. Wash or wipe the removable tray and lid, then dry them thoroughly. Pay special attention to corners, the egg tray handle and the rim of the water container.
3. Store the cooker with the lid off or slightly open, if your storage space allows and the parts remain protected. This can help any remaining moisture evaporate.
4. If the smell returns after one or two uses, inspect for scale or residue, because build-up can hold odours. Clean the cooker again before repeating the cycle.

Expected result: The stale smell should fade after thorough drying and a fresh cooking cycle.

Stop using the appliance immediately if: the smell is musty and is accompanied by rust, mould, leaks or electrical damage. If the issue remains unresolved or safe use is uncertain, stop using the product and contact the retailer or store where it was purchased.