Since the idea of electronic noses was published, numerous electronic nose (e‐nose) developments and applications have been used in analyzing solid, liquid and gaseous samples in the food and automotive industry or for medical purposes. However, little is known about methodological pitfalls that might be associated with e‐nose technology. Some of the methodological variation caused by changes in ambient temperature, using different filters and changes in mass flow rates are described. Reasons for a lack of stability and reproducibility are given, explaining why methodological variation influences sensor responses and why e‐nose technology may not always be sufficiently robust for headspace analysis. However, the potential of e‐nose technology is also discussed.