Yes, plane seats get cleaned, but the frequency and depth of cleaning can vary significantly.
Cabin cleaners are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of an aircraft interior, including passenger seats, bathrooms, and floors. However, the level of cleaning often depends on the duration of the layover between flights.
Factors Affecting Plane Seat Cleaning:
- Turnaround Time: Short layovers often limit cleaning to quick tidying, such as removing trash and wiping down surfaces.
- Cleaning Schedule: Airlines have scheduled deep cleaning sessions that occur less frequently and involve more thorough sanitation.
- Type of Mess: Obvious messes are typically addressed immediately, but stains or less noticeable dirt may be left until a scheduled cleaning.
- Regulations: Regulations vary by country, but generally, airlines are required to maintain a certain standard of cleanliness.
What Cleaning Usually Entails:
- Trash Removal: Removing any trash left by previous passengers.
- Surface Wiping: Wiping down tray tables, armrests, and seatbacks.
- Bathroom Cleaning: Cleaning and restocking lavatories.
- Floor Cleaning: Vacuuming or sweeping the floors.
What Cleaning Might Entail (Less Frequently):
- Seat Shampooing: Deep cleaning of seat fabrics.
- Disinfecting: Applying disinfectant to high-touch surfaces.
- Detailed Cleaning: Cleaning seat pockets and other hard-to-reach areas.
Conclusion:
While plane seats do get cleaned, passengers should be aware that the level of cleaning can vary. Bringing your own sanitizing wipes is a good way to ensure the cleanliness of your immediate area.