Asking what do human ashes smell like is a common concern, especially among those struggling to imagine what to expect when picking up their loved one's cremains. Most people who keep the ashes of a departed human or pet at home say they detect no odor from the cremains. A few respondents indicated a very slight metallic odor or a very slight scent of incense. Your experience of keeping cremains at home may vary, depending on the type of container you choose.