I use them all the time and haven't had a problem with any odors. It seems like they help with making the cake more level, but the main reason I use them is my cakes come out of the pans so much nicer. I never felt they were a hassal to mess with.

I like the strips and now there is a new brand called "Even Bake" with velcro closures. no more crazy pins.

I know that they are available at a store called Cakewalk Chicago. They don't have online shopping but will ship products. I am not sure what other retailers carry them. But I am glad that someone finally thought to make em with velcro. makes things so much easier.

www.cakewalkchicago.com

I've always used regular kitchen towels. Easier and cheaper for me.

I've never had any problems with the wilton cake strips. They are wonderful for me. I haven't noticed any taste just a slight plastic cooking smell.

Double post

The last time I used the Wilton ones, After I pulled them off my cake at the end of baking, I put them on the counter. Turned to finish pulling my cake out of the oven and heard a funny crackling sound. When I turned back around, the strips had caught fire and burned a "cigarette" spot on my counter. My husband was so mad at me. We had only been in our house for less than a year.

Never used any of them again.

My bake-even strips fell apart, got all crinkly! I made my own out of quilted cotton. The cotton absorbs the water quickly, you don't have to soak, just run under cold water. I use binder clips to hold mine on. I wouldn't bake a cake without them!