The Hygiene Risks Every Traveller Should Know

Travelling with children requires careful planning, but one of the most overlooked in-flight health hazards is surprisingly simple: the tap water onboard.

Whether it’s a quick rinse in the bathroom or a cup of tea served mid-flight, the truth behind where that water comes from—and what it might contain—should make every parent think twice.

How Clean Is Plane Tap Water?

According to multiple studies, including those conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the water stored and dispensed on commercial aircraft is often not as clean as passengers assume.

Airplanes store water in onboard tanks that are periodically refilled at different airports. These tanks are not drained or disinfected as frequently as they should be. Water quality may vary depending on the airport or even the aircraft, but results have consistently shown the presence of bacteria, including E. coli and coliform.

Bacterial Risks in Aircraft Water Tanks

Aircraft water tanks create an ideal environment for microbial growth. They are dark, damp, and difficult to clean thoroughly. When water is left to sit between flights and is continually topped up rather than fully emptied and sanitised, the risk of contamination increases.

The Association of Flight Attendants has also advised passengers not to drink from the plane’s water taps.

Elevated Risk for Children

Children are more vulnerable to bacteria, particularly when their immune systems are still developing. Travelling can also affect a child's digestion and resistance, which increases their susceptibility to illness.

Allowing a child to brush their teeth with tap water from the plane or drink from a cup filled in the lavatory may expose them to harmful microbes. Even a small exposure can lead to stomach discomfort or more serious gastrointestinal symptoms.

A Smart Swap for Families

For parents flying with young kids, the aim is usually comfort, calm, and convenience. Choosing sealed or pre-filled water bottles is a simple way to avoid plane water , without overthinking it.

Bringing your own reusable bottle means you’re in full control of where the water comes from, how clean the container is, and how much your child is drinking during the flight. It also means no relying on inflight cups, shared taps, or brushing little teeth with water of unknown quality.

Keeping Your Child’s Environment Clean

When you’re already being mindful of what your child eats and drinks while travelling, it’s also worth considering their physical environment on the plane. From tray tables to seat pockets and bathroom areas, surfaces on planes are used frequently and cleaned at varying intervals.

Creating a small, familiar and clean space for your child — whether it’s for sleeping, playing, or eating — can make a big difference. Packing a few simple items like sanitising wipes, a compact blanket, or a favourite toy can help establish that comfort zone and reduce the need for contact with shared surfaces during the flight.

Final Thoughts

Tap water on planes may seem harmless, but the facts say otherwise. For families travelling with young children, skipping the inflight water is a small change that can prevent a potentially unpleasant travel experience.

At Kooshy Kids, we believe in making travel not only easier but better for families. That’s why we encourage parents to pack smart, stay informed, and always be one step ahead—right down to what goes in your child’s water bottle.