Just opened it up a few minutes ago. Took a sniff to see what all the talk was about. Smelled the odor. Also saw the black on it. I brought along some Kleenite with me so the ceramic is now soaking. Will take it out in an hour or less and have at it. I checked it after 5 min and the black was already gone. I would think this Kleenite will take care of it. Will adv later.