Airplane blankets are often a lifesaver, especially on long flights or overnight flights when the cabin temperature can be chilly. However, despite the comfort they offer, an experienced flight attendant has a surprising warning regarding the use of airplane blankets.
Natalie Magee, a flight attendant with 20 years of experience, bluntly discourages passengers from using airplane blankets. Her reasoning is quite disgusting: airplane blankets can harbor fecal matter "Probably one of the most disgusting things I’ve ever seen is someone using a blanket to change their baby’s diaper," Magee told Travel + Leisure. She also added that the blankets could contain hair, food spills, mold, and other bodily fluids.
How Often Are Airplane Blankets Washed?
The big question that arises is, how often are these blankets washed? According to Magee, the frequency of washing depends largely on airline policy and the type of flight. She explained that most airlines have procedures for washing blankets after international flights. The blankets are washed in hot water, dried, and then sealed in a plastic bag for use on the next flight.
However, the situation is different for domestic flights. She indicated that blankets on domestic routes may not always be washed after each use. "On domestic flights, I’ve encountered blankets that are instructed to be folded back up and thrown back in the bin," Magee explained. So, what do you think? Do you often use airplane blankets on your flights?
Health Risks and Solutions for Passengers
Using potentially dirty blankets in an enclosed environment like an airplane can pose several health risks. The Times of India reported potential exposure to allergens, bacterial growth, and even skin infections. So, what can passengers do to stay comfortable and safe? Magee recommends bringing a personal blanket if traveling overnight or on long-haul flights.
However, if bringing a blanket is inconvenient, passengers can wear warm clothing or a thick jacket as a substitute while in the cabin. Furthermore, Magee offered one important tip: only use airplane blankets that are still sealed in a plastic bag. "If it’s not in a [closed] bag, it’s not hygienic," she concluded
Next time you’re on a flight, you might want to think twice before reaching for that neatly folded blanket. Staying informed and prepared can make all the difference in your travel experience. Have you ever used an airplane blanket before? Did you feel it was clean? Share your thoughts in the comments below I’d love to hear your experience!
Thanks for reading, and happy (cleaner) travels
cheeerrsssssssssssss
Natalie Magee, a flight attendant with 20 years of experience, bluntly discourages passengers from using airplane blankets. Her reasoning is quite disgusting: airplane blankets can harbor fecal matter "Probably one of the most disgusting things I’ve ever seen is someone using a blanket to change their baby’s diaper," Magee told Travel + Leisure. She also added that the blankets could contain hair, food spills, mold, and other bodily fluids.
Illustration of a passenger using an airplane blanket. (istockphoto/izusek)
How Often Are Airplane Blankets Washed?
The big question that arises is, how often are these blankets washed? According to Magee, the frequency of washing depends largely on airline policy and the type of flight. She explained that most airlines have procedures for washing blankets after international flights. The blankets are washed in hot water, dried, and then sealed in a plastic bag for use on the next flight.
However, the situation is different for domestic flights. She indicated that blankets on domestic routes may not always be washed after each use. "On domestic flights, I’ve encountered blankets that are instructed to be folded back up and thrown back in the bin," Magee explained. So, what do you think? Do you often use airplane blankets on your flights?
Health Risks and Solutions for Passengers
Using potentially dirty blankets in an enclosed environment like an airplane can pose several health risks. The Times of India reported potential exposure to allergens, bacterial growth, and even skin infections. So, what can passengers do to stay comfortable and safe? Magee recommends bringing a personal blanket if traveling overnight or on long-haul flights.
However, if bringing a blanket is inconvenient, passengers can wear warm clothing or a thick jacket as a substitute while in the cabin. Furthermore, Magee offered one important tip: only use airplane blankets that are still sealed in a plastic bag. "If it’s not in a [closed] bag, it’s not hygienic," she concluded
Next time you’re on a flight, you might want to think twice before reaching for that neatly folded blanket. Staying informed and prepared can make all the difference in your travel experience. Have you ever used an airplane blanket before? Did you feel it was clean? Share your thoughts in the comments below I’d love to hear your experience!
Thanks for reading, and happy (cleaner) travels
cheeerrsssssssssssss
A Message From Asep Haryono
"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well. Please leave any comment down below. Let me hear from you. Greetings from Indonesia"
