Metal phobia

by chloe walsh
(england)

since i was about 7+ i wouldn't touch metal. i hate the smell of it, the feel of it and everything about it.

when i go to restaurants i always get something easy like chips which i can just pick up and eat, and try to avoid like bolognese's etc. Its effected my life in such a negative way, i use plastic cutlery, when i go to friends house i tend to take them with me, i cant hold my keys without feeling sick.(i usually cover the metal with me sleeve).

i cant hold money for long, the smell of it makes me physically sick, and when i touch it i think there's loads of germs on it etc. i also cant eat when my hands smell of it either:/ oh and i hate it so so sooooooooooo much when people put money or their necklaces in there mouth!!

its disgusting, plus i cant wear necklaces or rings because they make me feel sick and horrible. i hate it:( i just wanna be well, normal:/

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Apr 11, 2024
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Kosmemophobia
by: Anonymous

When I was about 6 my mom would make my sisters and I wear dresses or overalls and usually buckled shoes to church. I remember one time she made me wear overalls and I was crying because I despised the metal parts so much. The fact she forced me to wear these things over and over again made me hate them even more.

I had a velvet set of clothes that I would wear very often because I didn’t like jeans. I hate keys, I hate jewelry, zippers, detailed forks or spoons, buttons, coins are the worst and I absolutely will not let anyone leave a coin in my car. I throw them in the trash, with a napkin. I’m 23 and I unfortunately don’t think I’ll ever be able to wear pretty jewelry or earrings because I know I’d feel them burning into my skin the entire time. But I really hope I will someday!

Nov 10, 2023
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Makes me want to cry
by: Anonymous

In every other area of my life I’m pretty much fearless and have no problems (25 male). However sometimes this stupid metal problem makes me want to cry. Has effected my dating life Immensely. To many times have I seen someone who is soo attractive, yet I’ll never match with them if the jewelry is too much for me, too many rings, dangling ear rings, etc. but the worst of all is septum piercings. And just today 2 of my siblings got them and I want to cry honestly.

After hearing I had every feeling go through my body and kinda had a freak out. I have never been able to look at someone with a septum piercing and I know this is going to affect our relationship.

Truly wish there was a way to just get rid of this because it affects me constantly

Oct 06, 2023
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Where to get advice
by: Sam

My son can not touch metal he's nearly 9. He has a huge panic is coins, keyes, ect... go near him. He tells me metal smalls and makes his hands hot and he can't handle the feel. At home I've put thing in place such as silicone on door handles remove zips with plastic putting tape around things ect... at school He struggles as he uses his tshirt to open doors can't use metal chairs and can not touch coins.

His teacher has now said she's not happy with it and wants his to see a Councillor to make him "better" which I wasn't happy with I've agreed to a Councillor. But I don't think a Councillor will change his mind I've explained there are people out there with the same phobia. Of course I worry about him as he gets older as he has autism aswel I wish there was a group chat with people who have a fear of metal so he knows he's not alone with this.

Ask questions get advice and give advice if I can. I don't see a problem with his phobia I just work hard and find ways to help him.

Aug 24, 2023
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Finally not alone
by: Joy

I thought I was the only person in the world who felt like this. I can’t stand anything metal either, particularly when it is old and rusty. I absolutely hate the sight of rusty nails and screws. I’ve lived in some old homes, and the sight of light switches with old rusted screws, or seeing rusted screws that bolt down the toilet in the bathroom makes me want to go in to a fetal position and vomit at the same time. Don’t even put a penny next to me; I will take a napkin and throw it in the trash before I ever put it in my wallet. And I certainly wouldn’t be able to eat if I saw one lying around.

Jun 28, 2023
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Tip
by: Anonymous

I used to work at a supermarket and the only thing that helped me is to keep a bottle of strong smelling hand sanitizer in my pocket at all times

Jun 28, 2023
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Any tips?
by: Anonymous

Do any of y'all have any tips for anyone who has to touch metal they don't like on a daily basis?

I have a job that requires me to touch it frequently and hate the texture and smell of it on my hands. I want to try gloves but I'm not sure what style to get that doesn't look "too wintery", or if the smell could still get on those. Are there any other alternatives/products or tips that y'all can recommend?
Many thanks!

Jun 20, 2023
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A little tip
by: Isa

It's the first time I hear about other people that also relate with me about this!

I have noticed that many people relate about not liking touching keys, and if this can help anybody, look up for silicone key covers. It has made it a lot better for me to hold keys and there are also many cute designs around the web :)

Jun 01, 2023
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Me too!
by: Amy

So reaffirming knowing I’m not crazy or alone. I have disliked metal since I can remember. It started with not being able to wear anything with metal zippers or press studs as a kid. Always hated jewellery and watches. Now coins, rings and old keys are the worst. I feel a burning sensation for ages on my skin when I’ve touched them, and have to rub my hands vigorously on my clothes to get rid of the feeling. I’m engaged but can’t wear a ring. The thought of coins in amongst dust, dirt etc at the bottom of a bag is my worst nightmare. Cutlery with patterns and grooves makes me feel sick.

Weird thing is it’s not everything. I can handle some particular metal cutlery, and I’m okay with some dangly earrings as long as there’s a non metal part to them. It’s so ridiculous and I can never understand why some things are okay and some aren’t.

I tried hypnotism pre covid and it was starting to work a little bit, but then we went into lockdown and I went back into my safe metal averse shell.

Glad others understand. Feels nice to write it all out without judgement.

May 07, 2023
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It’s so inconvenient and it’s like everyone forgets I have it😭🙏
by: Anonymous

I cant stand holding coins, looking at them, the sound, the smell, even sitting where they’ve been too recently!! My dad always has a pocket full of coins and when he sits on our couch like half of them spill out where he’s sitting and sometimes he just leaves it there, IT DRIVES ME SO CRAZY!! idk what i’m gonna do because I want to start working soon since i’m about to graduate but i’m sure i’ll have to start in some sort of retail and i dont thinki can handle working at a register with all those coins TT

Mar 18, 2023
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Hate the smell of some metals
by: Anonymous

Reading these entries as been so validating. I have always disliked/been disgusted by the smell of certain metals (copper, gold, brass - ‘dirty’ metals, in my mind) to the point that I have to wash my hands almost immediately after touching them, and if that’s not possible then try to avoid touching my face or smelling my hands. If I can smell it on my hands it makes me feel so disgusted.

I don’t mind stainless steel or silver as there is usually no smell with these. I have always used stainless steel cutlery with no issues. But any brass doorknobs, latches, handles, keys, padlocks etc, I really avoid touching them.

I remember throughout my life, since childhood, when unlocking the bathroom at my grandma’s house I would always cover my hand with the hand towel to avoid touching the metal directly because then I would have to wash my hands again. My mum has an antique fork from when she was a child in our cutlery drawer and I have always had a really visceral unexplainable aversion to it, I always thought of it as horrible or disgusting and refused to touch it. I don’t and have never worn any jewellery, but I can tolerate it as long as it doesn’t smell.

I don’t have OCD or autism (not that I know of anyway!).

Jan 31, 2023
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Metal
by: Anonymous

When I think about metal it gets me goosebumps. Just by reading the comments triggers that sensation. I only have a problem when putting metal.in my mouth, or by simply seeing others doing it. I can control it, by not thinking about it. But mostly of the time I prefer eating with something other than metal. It's really weird, i don't know anybody else that this happens to. I don't have a problem wearing jewelry or touching it with my hands.

Hopefully I could b of help and relieve to someone else.

Dec 16, 2022
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so happy I'm not the only one experiencing this
by: Anonymous

I have never felt so relieved before lol I thought I was the only one. I struggled with this since I was 6/7, my family would also think that I'm weird. I had to use plastic cutlery and I still prefer it over any other type. I hate jewelery (especially golden), I hate keys, coins, doorknobs, it always feels so dirty to me

Dec 15, 2022
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There is a name for it
by: Kat

Little update from me - it turns out I have autism and adhd - and this is part of my sensory processing disorders

Dec 15, 2022
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Is there a name for this?
by: Anonymous

People always thought I was weird for this! I hate metal, especially metals like copper, gold, bronze, etc. I’m only (kinda) okay with pure silver or like stainless steel. I hate the way metal smells and leaves a scent on your skin, but also metal just seems so dirty to me. I can’t stand when peoples jewellery makes their skin green, or when they put their necklaces in their mouth it’s SO GROSS! I’ve never been able to wear jewellery.

I also hate when people touch metal and then they don’t wash their hands. I’ve gotten my boyfriend in the habit of washing his hands especially after touching coins. I’m now used to using metal utensils but I never let the utensil actually touch my lips.

Glad I’m not the only one who feels this way because I’ve tried to research it but all I’ve come across is people who are actually scared of metal. I’m not scared of it, it just really grosses me out.

Oct 22, 2022
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Same problem
by: Anonymous

I thought I was just weird. I have the same thing. I hate things like metal jewelry, the only thing I don't mind are rings. I hate any type of chain. When I was younger my parents tried forcing metal cutlery on me and now I can use metal forks and knives, but I still hate spoons as I think I don't like the idea of putting my whole mouth on it and it sliding on the metal. Also for some reason cutlery with thin handles or more circular handles I don't like touching as much, but square handles are mostly all ok. Very weird "fear". I'm not too sure if it is even a fear as I'm not scared of it, I just hate the idea of touching it.

Oct 07, 2022
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I'm happy i'm not alone
by: Anonymous

Oh god, people like me actually exist. I'm so happy i'm not alone.

Mine is not as bad as some folks in here, but i've had an aversion to metal since i was little. According to my parents i said "I didn't like touching gold stuff".

Not being able to touch some kinds of door handles, having to open doors, getting a lot of change (I hate when the cashier gives me a lot of coins)

I could get by easily as a kid, but now that i'm an adult i've had to get def try to get used to things. I carry some sanitizer with me always and use it when my hands feel uncomfortable, and try to wash them as soon as i can.
Using my sleeve, or if it's cold, gloves are really convenient.

I have a memory of my mom making me wear a necklace for a party, it was actually very pretty, a lace choker, the only metal being the little chain to hold it, and i wore it and despite liking it a lot i couldn't get the itch off my brain. If i get married someday, i'm getting a wooden ring or something, because i dread having to wear a band, everyday, all the time.

Aug 29, 2022
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I got IT too i dont have IT that bad tho
by: Anonymous

IT started with Keys than other objects
Metal ones

Jun 30, 2022
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I too have these symptoms.
by: Idaho

I also feel such things. After researching a bit,I got to know the phobia of rings, jewelleries (metal ones) is called "Kosmemophobia". All this time,I am the only one who experience all these things. Recently I found a community on reddit named r/Kosmemophobia, y'all should check out. Posts are pretty relatable.

May 03, 2022
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i didn't know this was a thing?!?!?
by: Anonymous

I've been quite sensitive to metal utensils since young and TIL that 1. I'm not alone here, and 2. this is actually a sensory issue LMAO

So like personally I'd gag when a metal fork (it's always the forks!!) touches my tongue. Metal utensils scraping against plates makes my insides churn. Sometimes I can taste and/or feel something metallic when metal utensils touch each other.

(I don't understand how some people can eat with metal utensils AND plates like that's truly something I can't wrap my head around without shuddering)

But this metal sensory issue isn't as bad as last time because I have thicker metal utensils!! However, of course, thicker metal doesnt mean it's "better" or less of a sensory issue because sometimes I can still taste the metal itself and i hate that feeling so much

May 02, 2022
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Same Way
by: Anonymous

I always buy plastic utensils in bulk from Sam's Club, and when I go out to eat I request plastic utensils if I'm eating something where touching the flatware with my mouth is inevitable (i.e. foods that require a spoon). Currently getting into baking and looking to buy a stand mixer, but so many of the bowls and attachments and whatnot are metal and I'm losing my mind trying to find an alternative.

Mar 27, 2022
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Same
by: Anonymous

Im so glad im not alone! I cant wear jewelry, eat with normal forks and spoons etc. I have not been touching metal since i was 4, im not sure why. I have talked to people about this, but they say im overreacting. Metal is def a fear i have.

Feb 23, 2022
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metal touch disliking
by: Anonymous

Hmmm. I have always despised metals that touch skin. Its not about bacteria; I dont care about those at all. A strange metal disliking has inherited my brain. I dislike any kind of earrings or other piercing. I dont mind Ikea like cutlery tho. I eat with ikea forks spoons and knives and I dont mind it. Its all about metal touching skin and making it smell metallic.

People that put zipper in mouth, that touch coins and put fingers in mouth afterwards (however I dont mind it when Im drunk, it kinda cease after enough % is done). Piercing in belly button or any other area is a big nono for me. I dont mind some mild tattoes. But any kind of metal that touches skin for prolonged time disgusts me. Except for some like gold, silver, platinum, copper when touched briefly.

Feb 11, 2022
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Metallophonia
by: Martin

I feel the same way. It makes me really uncomfortable and sick when I'm around people wearing rings and etc. My parents don't think this is a real thing but still respect me eating with plastic forks, knifes... Maybe that's the only thing they respect about me but let's not change the subject. I feel like it has been getting worse with every year. At first it was okay, but now I got to the point, where I can't look at metal things, I can't eat with friends at restaurants, I can't touch keys or coins, I can't do the dishes and I can't even eat something, knowing that something metal touched it. I feel alone, and embarrassed to tell anyone. I just want to be normal. :/

Nov 10, 2021
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Opinion
by: Anonymous

This is most likely a sensory processing disorder due to autism spectre conditions like ADHD and some such. Detoxing is not a thing, please don’t try anything unscientific like this.

Nov 09, 2021
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I might know the CAUSE..?
by: Anonymous

Like all of you I also have an aversion to metal......because it leaches heavy metals in the body when in contact with the skin or food. I am severely EMF sensitive due to probably having a lot of heavy metals in my body.

I would encourage you guys to try to do a safe detox (and specifically heavy metal detox) to see if your aversion lessens. The body is infinitely wise. YOU ARE NOT ABNORMAL! Your body is giving you signs because it is extremely intelligent. It probably is showing you...through your feelings and fears....that you might need to detox and cleanse your body. A cleansed body works better. A cleansed body is happy. It will thank you.

Detoxing isn't hard at all: just drink more fluids (especially lemon water), eating more fruits and vegetables, a bit less fats, juicing and celery juice (the best).

Good luck, I wish you all the very best on your healing journeys.

Nov 03, 2021
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ugh its been a year since i last found this page
by: tigerfan1 but less cringey

okay so im tigerfan1 if you scroll down but hey ive grown from such a weird name so anyways
this page is quite literally my comfort internet site, i just feel so less alone??? like my mom always makes me feel bad about it and whenever i do something to prevent touching metal she says stuff like 'im gonna have to report this (cant stand the word report it makes me feel like im doing something wrong even tho im just trying to make myself more comfortable) to a therapist' 'this is a phobia its not normal oh my god' 'come on now youre just exaggerating' 'this is psychologist behaviour! this is insane!'
i gueninely just want it to go away.... but i also dont? like its a part of my identity, i dont want to go to a therapist and learn to grow from it because ive had it since i can remember (my earliest memory of having this was when i was 6) and it would be like losing a finger. even though its so horrible and im constantly on edge i love it in a weird way?? like metal fascinates me. whenever i see someone wearing a metal watch it fascinates me so much but i dont dare go within a metre of it??????? also all my friends are growing up and the clothes im meant to wear have so much metal on them and i physically cant handle it
also theyve started to wear rings (cos like 💅) and i cant go near their hands when they do,,,, but also i want to get rings so badly??? like they mock me (in a friendly way #nobullying #dontbullyanyonekids) for my clothes and i wish i could get nicer stuff bc i have all the means to do it, my parents arent poor and my mum is more than willing to buy me clothes, but i cant bc guess what? thEY ALL HAVE METAL ON THEM

was this vent helpful to anyone? probably not
did it make me feel better? a bit idk
see you all again in a year ig and do what you need to to be comfortable in such a metal filled world uwu owo grrrr

Nov 01, 2021
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Finally
by: Anonymous

I hate metal specifically coins I can’t really explain it it’s just the touch and the smell in everything of it.My family always called me weird for it and I only like eating using plastic spoons or plastic forks and my family doesn’t understand so it is very hard I am just so glad I found this page it made me feel normal because I thought I was the only one who felt like this

Sep 23, 2021
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What a relief
by: Anonymous

Oh my god guys I feel like I've been lost all my life and have finally found home!! Is this a condition? Do we have a scientific name?

I have a strong aversion to metals which includes coins and jewellery. I've been dubbed weird by family and friends all my life and I've just accepted that I might indeed be peculiar because I've never met anyone like me. My mum used to shout at me for refusing to wear jewellery like my "normal teenage friends".

In winter I could wear gloves in order to touch money or keys but in summer I had no excuse and it was just unbearable. I once broke up with a boyfriend (after a couple of dates ) because he had a habit of carrying loads of coins in his trousers pocket and whenever he stood up he would put his hands in his pocket and jiggle them (shudders). Only my husband accepts me as I am and has never called me weird or questioned why I don't wear my wedding ring.

I honestly feel so normal now. So so happy to have found this page :)))

Aug 23, 2021
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Kosmemophobia?
by: Tara

Mine is mainly with jewelry but the way y'all are describing it sounds very similar.

Best way I can sum up the way it feels....spider phobia is well known and "acceptable" (I have that also)....so imagine a spider dangling around someone's neck, holding on, moving it's legs around etc - to someone phobic of spiders. That's what seeing a necklace on someone feels like to me.

Even seeing one just laying on the counter feels the same as if it were a curled up dead spider.

Aug 13, 2021
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Related
by: Anonymous

I also feel exactly the same feeling. I also hate the smell of metal and can't touch it . There are only specific metals that I touch not others like jewelry,coins,keys and also rusty iron.

Jun 06, 2021
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THANK YOU
by: Thank you

Growing up. I always hated small metal things, jewellery zippers coins just anything like that. After touching it or even seeing it I just coulndt eat and always wiped my hands on my pants. I hated ALL of it, the smell the feel the texture even the thought of it grossed me out. I thought I was alone until I found this page but, I wonder if there's actually a scientific name or phobia for it

Jun 05, 2021
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YES 🙌
by: Unknown

Damn I don’t feel so weird anymore, ofcourse I can still use metal cuteraly however if it’s rusting I’ll make my eyes blur (benifect of needing glasses) and try and cover it

Also with money, I now use a card so it’s easier however I probably got the phobia from one of my brothers literally putting pennies in his mouth

Makes me physically sick thinking about it 🤢

And the smell, THE SMELL IS HORID

And overall I don’t like touching metal rusted or not, and ye

(Just relatable badically)

Jun 01, 2021
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RELATE!!!!
by: Anonymous

I literally cannot function when I smell metal-like aromas from my palm, my whole body even, or someone completely else. My parents have bought plastic covered forks and spoons and knifes and other utensils as such, and I am so thankful they did.

It's got so bad that sometimes my heart-beat goes so fast, and I start to panic after even slightly catching the smell on my hands. At this point, I can not even use my sleeves to open, use or even do simple movements including a metal object, since when I do, I smell my sleeves and feel so disgusted that I can NOT touch/wear that item of clothing for ages. I need for it to stop, it's becoming such a hassle even buying things because of coins, that I've had to resort to online shopping. I'm honestly kind of scared from it. Thank gosh this page exists.

May 27, 2021
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I relate
by: Anonymous

I thought I was the only one only because no one I know is like this, unfortunately I am, it isn’t as bad as it was before but I still feel super uncomfortable eating w metal forks/spoons, especially from a restaurant or friends, I prefer plastic 100%, I’ve only gotten a bit comfortable cause I’ve worked as cashier & I had to, though, I try to wear gloves majority of the time, even if customers stare at me as if I am weird, cause I guess I am since I have this phobia & I have had it since the longest, I don’t think I’ve ever felt comfortable touching metal in my life, I’ve just always been like this, I wish I could wear those pretty rings but I always have to remove them to wash my hands like 1000 times a day, I’m now 22 & I feel as if I’m always gonna be like this

May 19, 2021
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omg i am so happy i am not alone
by: Hailey

i thought i was the only person but i guess im not nice to know im not the only one

May 09, 2021
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It just grosses me out
by: Miriam P

I can't touch the door handles around my school without covering my hand with my sleeve, and even then the smell just makes me want to throw up. I despise any sort of jewelery that contains the slightest bit of any metal, and I just cannot hold coins. I've spent hours searching on the Internet for a label for this, but still can't find one :(

Apr 09, 2021
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Metal blehhh
by: Anonymous

Mine started maybe around kindergarten or younger, it’s gotten better but still sometimes use my sleeve to open some doors, I don’t use change if I do I have my dad hold it for me or I have to wash my hands right after. Blood smell makes me sick. I’m always uncomfortable with using metal forks and such that have been in peoples mouths like I know they were cleaned but I still have a hard time using them.

I was literally smelling my hands today because I touched a backpack zipper and a door knob, a bunch of water and hand sanitizer fixed some of the smell. It just won’t go away, I can go a while now without smelling my hands but once I smell something new that’s potent in metal I freak out. Rings and bracelets freak me out too even necklaces, I always wear things with string or beads just because metal stinks and feels weird on my skin. It’s cool to see others going through this too :)

I wonder what it is hmmm

Mar 24, 2021
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Thank you!
by: Anonymous

I know I’m a little late to the party on this thread.. but thank all of you!!!

I have been dealing with this since I was little. When I was little, if people gave me money. I only would take dollars because I couldn’t touch the change. My uncles said I was smart, asking for the dollars. They never knew the real reason. So refreshing to see others having this issue. My whole family thought I was just weird and would grow out of it. I have gotten better, but it will never go away.

I consider myself a smart person. Astonished that I have never thought of it as a phobia.

I found silverware that is more like stainless steel, so I can handle it. Using silverware not of my own is always a mental challenge. I still will do my best to avoid holding keys, change. Jewelry is still out of the question. I cringe insanely just by the thought of it. When my mom asks me to help put a necklace on... gag reflex soars!!

It physically makes me ill.

Mar 16, 2021
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Knew I wasn't the only one like this
by: Val

I would love to tie a name to this. It's nothing that controls my life but just an annoynce that I put a name to. I've been like this since I was a child. I use disposable cutlery, never carry change without having to scrub my hands immediately. Gosh I remember having to wear gloves when going to the park to swing. I got a tongue ring when I was younger and I would be irritable and my mouth would just feel weird. I quickly had to switch to plastic. Sometimes it's more sensitive than other days. Like sometimes when I have a beer I have to clean the rim after I remove the bottle cap. There are times when I just can't even drink it cause I swear I can taste the metal. I'm just glad I am not the only one out like this.

Mar 03, 2021
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Mine just showed up
by: Anonymous

My main issue is with cheap flatware. If I use real silverware, I'm mainly okay, but if I touch or even think about crappy silverware, and/or anything made from aluminum, my shoulders tense up and I get an acid taste in my mouth. I was just curious if anyone else had this issue and found this thread. Even thinking about it is making me uneasy.

Jan 31, 2021
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To LFB
by: Kat

OMG, I feel the same with the flatware clanking together

Jan 31, 2021
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I eat with wood
by: LFB

I commented on this site years ago. So much of my sensory thing is the sound of silverware hitting together. I can smell metal that has lost its coating...for instance door knobs. I do fine with cast iron and can handle the tone of that, but I do use wood when I cook with it. It is the weirdest sensory thing ever. I bought some sets of wood flatware and can I say I LOVE THEM. It allows me to eat with joy. I carry them with me.
I can smell coins, especially pennies (I am in the USA).

People who scrape their teeth on silverware send me up a wall. It physically hurts to hear that!! The sound of sharpening knives, silverware hitting together also hurts...I don't understand it except that it causes my bones to shriek inside of me.

Jan 30, 2021
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Ever try silver (or silver-plated flateware?
by: Drew Dougherty

After years of stonework and other manual labor I suddenly was finding cheap metal flatware intolerable to hold in my hand! Feels like a strange static-ey shock in my hand/fingers. A few years back I found a good set of tarnished silver-plated flatware at a garage sale. Cleaned it up all and used it ever since. I actually find it comforting to handle and use.

Wonder if this would make a difference for y'all? Thanks for the site! Nice to see some like-minded folks in the world. :)

All the best, -Drew

Jan 11, 2021
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Never knew!
by: 26

I ALWAYS thought I was alone in this! Started when I was about 6 I believe and has gotten somewhat better where I can eat with a ‘you know what’ fork at a restaurant (hate spelling and saying it’s name)

My mom used to pack a bag of plasticware for me when we went on vacations, to this day I still eat with plasticware and I only use my debit card so I never have to touch coins. when people rattle their change it drives me insane and I have no problems telling them to stop because I can’t focus at all.

My mom discussed this with my Dr. when I was little and she had no answers and likely thought I was seeking attention..

So glad there are others!

Jan 02, 2021
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me too
by: Anonymous

im 12 and yes i HATE metal. is there a sientific diagnosis for it? because without it im going to keep living in hate of going outside bc my dad wont let me go anywere without wereing "good clothes"

Dec 08, 2020
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So I guess there's others
by: Anonymous

Wow, it's... nice? I guess? To see that I'm not the only one. I guess I just remembered always feeling that way. When I was little I absolutely refused to wear jeans because of the zippers and buttons and stuff. And the smell it leaves on your hands is a big thing.

And I've grown older I've leard to deal with things like keys, but mostly by just... trying not to think about it.

And yesterday a cushion on an armchair broke and all the little "teeth" or whatever fell on the floor and I had to vacuum it up and I damn near vomited. It's been a while since I had such a visceral reaction to it.

I can't even really describe the criteria for what grosses me out and what doesn't. Mostly smaller more intricate things like keys and coins and jewelry. But I have no problem with like the end of my phone charger even if it's small and shiny. It's weird. I don't know what it means.

Sep 14, 2020
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Dentists
by: Anonymous

I know this thread is a few months old but I'm hoping someone can answer, since I can remember I can't touch metal or even be near it without feeling sick but the problem is I need to go to the dentist, where they use metal tools...does anyone have advice? Should I tell the dentist? Do they have different tools?

May 03, 2020
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I'm back
by: TigerFan1

Hey, so unfortunately this still bothers me, after every time I tried forcing myself to touch metal I just couldn't.

https://psychtimes.com/metallophobia-fear-of-metal/

So, here is a link to something that may hold some answers! The stuff described on there is a bit extreme (panic attacks etc)

Apr 28, 2020
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so that's a thing
by: Anonymous

Oh my god, so it actually exists?? I absolutely despise the smell of metal and the mere thought of touching things like my keys, coins or cutlery makes me cringe.

Apr 14, 2020
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I remember how it started
by: Kat

I remember how it started now - my nan used to have cabinets with really old brass handles - I absolutely hated the smell

Apr 13, 2020
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I’m not alone!
by: Tigerfan1

Since I was roughly 6-7ish (like you) I honestly couldn’t touch metal. For me it was usually stainless steel, and small metal engraved things.... i can’t describe the feeling. It’s really weird, and I have absolutely no idea how it came.

Over a few years I forced myself to touch metal and act normal around it, since I didn’t want my friends or family to notice. I once vomited watching someone suck at a small metal pendant they had on a necklace. I cannot wear any clothes with any metal on them, which is pretty much all nice clothes. When I eat I eat in a slightly weird way as I don’t like the metal touching my mouth.

My mum literally put a deadline, when I reach a certain age she has my permission to bring me to a psychologist to fix this.... if anyone has any more info about this I would be so grateful!!

Feb 24, 2020
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Same here
by: Kat

I’ve been the same since I was really young - it’s made some aspects of my life very difficult but not unmanageable. Just got engaged but with bent wood rings

Feb 12, 2020
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I thought i was the only one
by: CG

I seriously thought i was the only person, objects made of metal make me shiver and get goose bumps i hate it so much. i especially hate small metal objects and rings and necklaces. it’s nice to know i’m not alone though!

Oct 27, 2019
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Copper
by: Judith

I get sick from copper, get stomach ache to look at it and gives me shivers, but nothing about other metals, I guess i have the "light version" of this... Still I'm glad I'm not the only one

Oct 16, 2019
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The smell of metal//forcing myself to use metal cutlery
by: 28 year old mom of 1

I cannot stand the smell of metal spoons, forks or knives. My brother sucks at washing dishes and cutlery and just washes the spoon part not the handle. He lives with me and one time he washed a metal fork but the smell of iron/metal was still there along with MUSK AND SWEAT. I picked up a fork to eat some noodles and of course didnt sniff the fork because of how weird I am with metal. When I tilted my head down to eat my noodles the smell of hot, sweaty, musky metal smell made me INSTANTLY DRY HEAVE and I began to vomit everywhere. I am traumatized by this and only eat from wooden spoons and forks now.

I dont like wearing even metal necklaces because they stink so badly to me. I don't go to the gym because of the sweat smell combined with metal makes me sick to the point where I have to take medicine for upset stomach/nausea. Handles on stairways also smell awful and make me sick. This has impacted my life so heavily I wish there was a way to feel normal but I've always had a strong sense of smell. But metal to me is the worst. I wish there was a cure for this.

Aug 23, 2019
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Finally I'm not alone
by: Anonymous

My god, this is so relieving that it isn't just me. For me it's most metals like copper, nickel, silver, gold (ugh especially gold! Even spelling it out bleh), basically everything coins are made of. I can't hold change without feeling like it has contaminated my hands with its awful smell, I avoid metal doornobs or cabinet handles, detailed metal silverware, jewelery, metal zippers, rusted metal, all that. Plastic versions of all that are totally fine. Also, a select few metals are fine for me, like stainless steel or painted metal. Generally metals that aren't shiny or corrosive are ok. If I ever do have to touch the "bad" metals, I have to wash my hands as soon as possible to remove the grossness and odor from my hands. Oh and the sound of rattling or jingling metal... I can't. I hate it.

May 23, 2019
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Something's Up
by: T

Wow I knew I have reactions but never knew anyone to talk about it. The smell of cooper and metal flatware. I always knew washing the flatware was the toughest of dishes. Have to build up the nerve to wash them. Then I realized I like to eat with a smooth nice plastic forks and I just bought ceramic soup spoons.

Do cultures who use ceramic and wood know something we don't? I think I will like the ceramic spoons. I have sounds trouble too. Especially metal on metal makes my head snap left then right a replay from an car accident. I scream if I drop a metal pot onto the metal sink. I really think there many be an illness causing the not liking of metal. Allergy?

I don't like metal clicking my teeth. I wore braces five years and maybe made the taste and situation worse. I don't want it to ruin the taste of food. I bake in a corning ware and I wondered why is it easier to scrub this than wash the flatware. Maybe an electric charge
or too many people used it , scratches, pitting bent , wear. Don't feel bad there is something going on here. Positive ions ? Maybe it takes energy from you somehow. Like you are the battery. Something to this.

Someone figure this out for us????

May 18, 2019
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I hate it
by: Anonymous

Even the word metal grosses me out. I've always been like this, teased about it my whole life and never knew why it bothered me so much. I cant even look at certain things without thinking about it in my mouth or touching me. This includes money (ESPECIALLY PENNIES ugh) jewelry, keys/key chains, buttons, anything with screws on it (cant sit on certain chairs) the metal on jeans pockets/ zippers/ buttons (first thing i check for when shopping or talking to someone with them, i dont want them touching me or sitting on my bed/ car/ or sit where theyve been sitting in case the metal touched it)... the list goes on and on. Its horrible because it feels like its only gotten worse over time. Silverware, buckles, any rivets on anything... its the worst. I wish there was a cure, but the thought of living any other way just grosses me out. :(

May 18, 2019
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relating
by: Anonymous

i relate heavily, coins and jewelry are the worst for me (to where just typing the words gives me phantom smells and is painful and gross). i can only use certain types of metal forks, spoons, and knives, usually the plain ones with no design. if somebody touched coins i cannot go near them without actually becoming sick. i hate it so much because most of these are everyday things and it gets to the point of where my life is impacted terribly because of it

Apr 19, 2019
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Any Medical reason or medical name for this disease
by: Indian

I have the same problem.
I want to know any medical or biological reason for this disease. or medical name of this disease.
I dont know how i am going to get married with gold wearings. I want to tell my parents and friends about this problem ?

Anybody answer pls?

Feb 02, 2019
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Wooden Flatware
by: LFB

I am so excited! I just ordered a travel set of wooden flatware, reusable and beautiful. I plan on ordering a larger set of knives, forks , and spoons for the house. I really am so very excited about this. The scraping of silverware is actually painful and the taste of some metals is terrible. Door knobs smell, money smells. Believe it or not, I don't have a problem with cast iron...go figure. Aluminum is beyond horrible and cleaning it nearly makes me collapse.

Nov 27, 2018
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I Loath metallic smells
by: Noah

I am so happy that I’m not the only one. My whole life I’ve had it and can’t figure out why. But it’s not every metal for me. It’s more of copper, coins or older metal. I can’t open doors without using my shirt. I can’t touch keys at all if I do I have to use my shirt.

I can’t for the life of me touch coins at all. When they hand change back I make sure they put it on the bill then I dump it out when no ones looking. I can only use certain silverware. For some reason the ones with the most designs disgust me.

I loath all piercings and jewelry. It’s bad it’s to the point where if a 10/10 chick was talking to me but had a whole bunch of jewelry I honestly would lose all attraction.nobody really knows about it because I know it’s completely dumb but I can’t help it.

I can’t do metal zippers either. Also for some reason the smell of iron makes me fell sick

Jul 04, 2018
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I hate metal
by: Anonymous

Hi. So I want to start by saying that I thought that I was the only one who experienced this and that I'm glad that I'm not alone. I personally am ok with touching like polished metal (like silverware, jewelry, etc) but when it comes to coins, metal chains on swing sets, door knobs, keys, etc. I will freak out if I have to touch them. If there is a situation where I have to unlock something with a key or where I have to open a door with a metal handle, I will either try and touch it with my sleeve covering my hand or I will wash my hands thoroughly immediately after I am done. Thinking about metal rubbing to together, smelling it, tasting it, touching it, repulses me. I honestly don't know why and my mom and her boyfriend think that I'm crazy and I'm making it up for attention. Ugh. Honestly, metal freaking sucks and I hate it. I wish that one of my friends or family members understood how I feel so then I wouldn't be entirely alone and so then I could actually talk face to face with someone about my issue without getting eye rolls.

Jun 06, 2018
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Not alone🖤
by: Anonymous

Me and my best friend are the same. We can’t touch coins. Although, she is okay with silver wear where I am not. I only use plastic cutlery and when I have to have change I tend to leave it on the counter if they don’t have a tip jar or hand it off to a friend. If someone pays for something for me with my money(which happens quite often because I have severe social anxiety) and they go to hand me back my change I can not take it. Thankfully, it’s not ALL metal for me usually. I can touch my keys for a short amount of time and I have a stainless steel bracelet that doesn’t bother me whatsoever.

Mar 04, 2018
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You're not alone
by: Isabelle

Me and my friend also has the same phobia. We bonded over this and it has affected our whole lives. It's so nice to see that we're not alone in this.

Nov 10, 2014
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I'm the same!
by: Shauna N (England)

You have literally just described my life. So glad I'm not the only one!

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Metal phobia

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