Airplane Bathroom Etiquette: Yes, This Needs to Be Said

Let’s just cut to it: airplane bathrooms are gross. They’re tiny, smelly, questionably clean, and somehow still the scene of absolute chaos every time you fly. You’d think being stuck in a flying metal tube with 200 other people would inspire a little courtesy in the loo. Spoiler: It doesn’t. So, let’s talk airplane bathroom etiquette — because clearly, too many people missed that memo.

1. This Isn’t Your Personal Day Spa

Talking about airplane bathroom etiquette, you’re not in your hotel room. This is a closet-sized bathroom shared by everyone on board, and you have exactly zero privacy. So why are you in there doing your 10-step skincare routine like you're getting ready for a Vogue shoot? Quick rinse, quick mirror check, back to your seat. Save the deep cleansing and full glam for the airport lounge.

2. Wear Your Damn Shoes

We shouldn’t even have to say this, but apparently, we do: do not go in there barefoot. Not in socks. Not in your cute fuzzy slippers. If your feet are touching that bathroom floor raw, you’re braver (or grosser) than the rest of us. And that liquid on the floor? Yeah, it’s not water. Just trust us.

3. Knock First, Lock Always

Talking about airplane bathroom etiquette, nothing screams “awkward travel story” like accidentally opening the door on someone mid-squat. Don’t rely on the “occupied” sign — give a quick knock before pushing that flimsy door open. Also: if you’re inside, lock the door. That little “engaged” light is your friend.

4. Clean Up Like a Grown-Up

Yes, we know turbulence happens. But if you splash water all over the sink, leave used paper towels on the counter, or — worst of all — forget to flush? That’s on you. Don't be that person. Treat it like a public restroom with a line out the door, because that’s exactly what it is.

5. Don’t Hover in the Aisle Like a Bathroom Vulture

Waiting for your turn? Cool. Standing two inches from the bathroom door, staring at it like it owes you money? Not cool. Talking about airplane bathroom etiquette, sit down until it’s free or wait discreetly. Nobody wants to be ambushed the second they step out. Bonus tip: If you're seated right by the bathroom, you have our deepest sympathy. People forget that seat exists the second they’re desperate.

6. No Perfume Cloud, Please

Nothing ruins a tiny space faster than someone spraying an entire can of body spray. What scent do you think is fresh? It’s not, especially when mixed with recycled air and toilet funk. Leave the fragrance bomb at home. If you need to freshen up, keep it lowkey — deodorant or a wipe, max.

7. Mile-High Club? Just… No.

Look, we get it. Maybe you’re feeling bold, rebellious, whatever. But that cramped, questionably clean closet with a folding door is not sexy. It’s not even comfortable. Plus, people know. Those walls are thin. Don’t make the rest of us deal with your mid-air hookup. Save it for the hotel.

8. Don’t Wait Until Landing

Talking about airplane bathroom etiquette, everyone seems to get the sudden urge to pee 10 minutes before landing. Don’t be that person trying to squeeze past the drink cart during the final descent. Use the bathroom earlier. Or risk being stuck squirming in your seat for 30 minutes while the plane taxis aimlessly.

9. Say Something If It’s a Disaster

Walked into a horror scene? Toilet overflowing? No TP left? For the love of all that is clean, tell a flight attendant. Don’t just walk out silently and leave it for the next poor soul to discover.

The Bottom Line: Be Cool

Airplane bathroom etiquette is really just about not being a jerk. You don’t have to be perfect — just be considerate. Clean up after yourself, don’t treat it like your own personal space, and remember you’re not the only one on the flight. If we all acted like we weren’t raised by wolves, these tiny sky-bathrooms would be a little less miserable. So next time you feel the call of nature mid-flight, follow the golden rule of travel: Don’t be gross. Be cool. That’s it. Visit our website for more details.