Airline insiders reveal grim in‑flight hygiene secrets
Traveling by plane can be problematic. Numerous bans and restrictions effectively take away the joy of traveling. A well-known flight attendant on TikTok, Kate, shares insights that might make flying even less appealing. She lists several things we absolutely shouldn't do on board.
2:08 PM EDT, October 31, 2024
This airline expert shared her insights on TikTok under the profile named perfectlykate. There, she warns passengers, among other things, about unsanitary conditions in airplane bathrooms.
It's better not to do these things on a plane
"Do not use toilet paper on the plane," Kate advises in her viral video. It can be covered in urine because some men can't control their needs and might splash it, as she explains. Her words caught the attention of many internet users who were surprised by the extent of the problem.
This isn't the only warning for those concerned about hygiene during a flight. Other experts in the airline industry also emphasize how unclean various surfaces on the plane can be. Cher, a flight attendant with five years of experience, revealed that the filthiest spots are window shades, seat belts, overhead compartments, and, of course, toilet seats.
"Once in my career have I seen the toilet seats get cleaned off," Cher said in a conversation quoted by NYPost. Rosa Sanchez, a professional cabin cleaner for several major airlines, has had similar experiences.
Kate also emphasizes always wearing shoes when using the airplane bathroom.
Don't take off your shoes on board, she advises. "And if you do, you better not walk into that bathroom in your bare socks or on your bare little piggy toes." There's urine all over the floor, so keep your shoes on, she adds.
The flight attendant explains the role of the cabin crew
The flight attendant also shares other tips for passengers. She asks that they don't treat the crew's workspace as their own area for exercises or stretching. She also encourages showing empathy to mothers traveling with restless children.
"Don’t elbow your neighbors," Kate points out. "That’s assault, that is physical violence and physical violence means cops, OK? Be kind," she explains. The flight attendant also emphasizes the importance of the cabin crew's role in emergency situations.
"Your flight attendants went through seven weeks of intensive training. We are trained in emergency response. We’re trained to do what we gotta do and handle it when things go south on that plane at 30,000 feet.
Finally, Kate reminds passengers that although there may be doctors on board, it is often the flight attendants who are the first line of help in emergencies. Her message is clear: respect the cabin crew and maintain hygiene during the flight.
