TSA Issues Toothbrush Warning For Air Travelers

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued an advisory regarding electric toothbrushes that contain lithium batteries.

TSA advises travelers to pack their toothbrushes in carry-on bags, not checked luggage. This rule applies to electric toothbrushes and, as TSA puts it, “anything that buzzes.” The agency also states that “any spare or uninstalled lithium batteries must be placed in a carry-on bag.” The TSA maintains an updated list of prohibited and restricted items on its website for travelers to reference before packing.

Why Lithium Batteries Are A Safety Risk

Lithium batteries can overheat and cause smoke or fire on aircraft, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This risk is why airlines limit how passengers can carry them. Furthermore, battery-related incidents are becoming more common. The FAA reported at least one lithium battery-related issue per week aboard aircraft in 2023.

TSA guidelines state: “Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion should be carried in carry-on baggage.” The FAA adds: “Flight crews are trained to recognize and respond to lithium battery fires in the cabin.” It also advises: “Passengers should notify flight crew immediately if their lithium battery or device is overheating, expanding, smoking, or burning.”

Rules For Carrying Electric Toothbrushes

If travelers place lithium battery devices in checked luggage against TSA guidance, the FAA has strict requirements. Devices must be completely powered off and packed to prevent unintentional activation or damage. The FAA notes: “If that device can get excessively hot, the heating element, battery, or other components should be removed.”

TSA’s update on electric toothbrushes aligns with a larger trend of tightening restrictions. The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that TSA has banned portable chargers and power banks with lithium-ion batteries from checked bags. The agency also recently added three more items to its list of banned checked luggage items: cordless curling irons or flat irons powered by gas cartridges or butane, and spare gas cartridges for curling irons or flat irons.

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