It is always wise to check what you can and can not bring with you when flying. The last thing you want is to have to throw something away or have it confiscated at airport security, it is an expensive mistake, to say the least.
So, what about an electric toothbrush, can you bring an electric toothbrush on a plane? If so, does it have to go in your carry-on or checked luggage, or can it go in both?
To answer the question, the TSA states that you can bring electric toothbrushes on a plane but there are some special instructions.
Join me as I run through everything you need to know about bringing your electric toothbrush on a plane.
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Can You Bring An Electric Toothbrush in Your Carry-On?
Yes, you can bring electric toothbrushes in your carry-on luggage. In fact, the FAA and TSA prefer that you pack your electric toothbrush in your carry-on luggage. Why? It is all about lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries can go wrong and catch on fire. If lithium batteries are in checked baggage, there is no one to put the fire out.
But, if a lithium-ion battery catches fire in a carry-on bag, the aircraft crew can quickly put it out.
Most electric toothbrushes run on a lithium-ion battery and therefore should be in your carry-on bag. Any spare lithium-ion batteries for your electric toothbrush should also be in your carry-on bag.
You might be concerned that your electric toothbrush has a sharp point without the brush attached, but it is still fine for carry-on bags.
Can You Bring An Electric Toothbrush in Your Checked Bag?
Yes, you can pack an electric toothbrush in checked luggage even if it has a lithium battery.
It used to be the case that you had to pack electric toothbrushes and all electronic devices with lithium metal batteries in your carry-on luggage, but the TSA and FAA slackened the rules.
Now, only loose/spare lithium-ion batteries have to be in carry-on baggage, and other electronic devices can be put in checked baggage.
But, it is still advised that your electric toothbrush should be in your carry-on bags as a safety precaution.
Also, you might want to use your electric toothbrush when changing planes and do not want to be left without it if your checked luggage gets lost along the way.
How to Pack an Electric Toothbrush for Flying
The best way to pack your electric toothbrush for travel is in its original packaging if you still have it. This will ensure it is safe from damage.
If your electric toothbrush uses removable batteries, take the battery out so it doesn’t turn on while you are traveling. However, the battery must travel in your carry-on, while the electric toothbrush can be carried in either carry-on or checked baggage.
If you can not remove the battery, then make sure the electric toothbrush is turned off.
It is also a good idea to remove the brush from the top so that it does not get damaged if you are packing it loosely.
Can You Use Your Electric Toothbrush on a Plane?
There is nothing worse than going to sleep without brushing your teeth and it is somehow even worse when you are on an overnight flight.
But, can you use electric toothbrushes on a plane? Yes, you can use any rechargeable electric toothbrush on a plane but there are some rules to follow.
Firstly, you can only use your electric toothbrush when the plane is cruising and the seat belt signs are turned off.
You should also be quick about using them in a bathroom and not do a 5-minute brush like you might at home. Also, be sure to rinse the sink after so the next person doesn’t see your toothpaste and spit in the basin – common courtesy goes a long way on planes.
Another rule is that you can’t store your electric toothbrush in the seat pocket in front of you, it has to go back in your bag. Do not forget to turn it off after and remove the rechargeable battery (if you can).
Can You Bring A Toothpaste on a Plane?
Yes, you can bring toothpaste on a plane in both your checked luggage and in your carry-on too. It is, however, considered a liquid and you will have to follow the TSa 3.1.1 rules for liquids in carry-ons.
Make sure the tube of toothpaste is 3.4 oz or 100 ml or less and it fits inside the 1-quart size bag of liquids allowed in your carry-on.
Then you can keep your teeth clean and your oral hygiene up to scratch while you fly.
If you have a long flight and want to brush your teeth after your in-flight meal or before you go to sleep, rest assured that there is no issue bringing your toothpaste on a plane.
If you are in doubt, here are some TSA Approved Toothpastes for you.
Can You Bring A Mouthwash on a Plane?
Mouthwash is allowed in your checked luggage in any volume. Just be sure to pack it intelligently so it does leak all over your clothes.
You can also pack mouthwash in your carry-on bags but again, it has to follow the TSA rules for liquids. Make sure it is in a bottle of 100 ml/3.4 oz or less and fits in the one quart-size plastic bag you are allowed for liquids.
Best Electric Toothbrush for Travel
The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 is the best electric toothbrush for travel in my eyes.
It is not only awesome at cleaning your teeth with its 8 brush heads but it also has 5 different cleaning modes to choose from. You can use deep clean, gum health, tongue care, clean, and white plus modes.
Philips boasts that with this toothbrush, you will have 7 x better gum health in 2 weeks, and it will remove 10 times more plaque.
To top it off, it comes with a special travel case so it always stays safe and doesn’t turn on by mistake in your bags.
