Top 10 Worst Airport Washrooms in the planet in 2025

Airport restrooms are often overlooked until you find yourself in a less-than-pleasant situation. From unpleasant odors to malfunctioning facilities, travelers have shared their experiences on Reddit, highlighting some of the worst airport washrooms worldwide.

Here’s an exclusive look at the top 10 airports as researched by Aviation A2Z with the most frequently mentioned restroom (washrooms) complaints, along with tips on how to prepare for the unexpected.

Photo: Denver International Airport

1. Denver International Airport (DEN), USA

Denver International Airport‘s newly renovated washrooms have received mixed reviews. While some travelers appreciate the modern design, many have reported issues such as malfunctioning faucets, soap dispensers, and hand dryers.

One Reddit user expressed his frustration, “You can’t fit your hands under the faucets in the sinks, soap dispensers are already non-functional, towel dispensers are hidden and often empty.”

Photo: Pokemonprime | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Terminal_C,_Orlando_International_Airport,_Orlando,_Florida.jpg

2. Orlando International Airport (MCO), USA

Orlando International Airport has also been criticized for its restroom conditions. Travelers have reported consistently dirty washrooms with long lines, especially during peak travel times.

One Reddit user commented, “I’ve flown about three times, and the bathrooms are never clean, and there’s always a line of people waiting to use a stall.”, showing how the airport might not have the best restroom.

Photo: Gensler

3. San Diego International Airport (SAN), USA

San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1 has been described as having some of the worst airport bathrooms. Overflowing urinals and unsanitary conditions have been reported by travelers.

One Reddit user mentioned, “Queues out the door (both gents & ladies), overflowing urinals, piss all over the floor.”

Photo- Visit Houston

4. Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Houston, USA

Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston has faced criticism for the state of its restrooms. Travelers have reported overwhelming odors and unsanitary conditions in Terminal A.

One Reddit user shared, “Both women’s bathrooms in Terminal A were unusable. The smell was overwhelming.”

Vancouver International Airport | Image credit to Wikicommons | Aviation A2z

5. Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Canada

Vancouver International Airport has been noted for its lack of accessible washrooms upon arrival.

One traveler shared their frustration: “There were basically no bathrooms until you got through security. In every other major city airport I’ve been to around the world, there are bathrooms when you land.”

LaGuardia Airport; Photo- Wikipedia

6. LaGuardia Airport (LGA), New York, USA

Travelers often call LaGuardia’s bathrooms outdated, cramped, and poorly maintained. Redditors frequently mention long lines and a lack of space, especially in older terminals.

Photo: nicola | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Chicago_Airport_-_ND0_5470.jpg

7. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), USA

O’Hare’s massive passenger traffic puts pressure on its facilities. Common Reddit complaints include dirty stalls, frequent maintenance issues, and restrooms that don’t keep up with the airport’s size.

Photo: Martin St-Amant (S23678) | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:1_-_A%C3%A9roport_de_Miami_-_Ao%C3%BBt_2008.jpg

8. Miami International Airport (MIA), USA

MIA is another airport often flagged for cleanliness concerns. Reddit users note foul odors, overcrowding, and slow upkeep. Some travelers suggest avoiding peak international arrival times to dodge the worst conditions.

Photo: Skytrax

9. Heathrow Airport (LHR), London, UK

Despite being a global hub, LHR doesn’t escape criticism. Complaints center on dirty restrooms in older terminals, poor maintenance, and inconsistent supply of essentials like soap or paper towels.

Photo: Benoît Prieur | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Terminal_corridor_at_Los_Angeles_International_Airport_(July_2022).jpg

10. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), USA

While already infamous for congestion, Reddit discussions frequently highlight the restrooms at Los Angeles Airport that are overcrowded, under-cleaned, and unpleasant during heavy travel periods. Even newer terminals can’t always handle the volume.

Photo: DavidPradoPerucha / Freepik

Hidden Challenges Behind Airport Restrooms

Beyond cleanliness, airport bathrooms often present unexpected challenges that travelers rarely anticipate. Some airports have limited accessibility, especially in older terminals, making it difficult for passengers with mobility issues or families traveling with young children.

Others suffer from inconsistent water pressure, broken fixtures, or poorly functioning hand dryers, which can turn a quick stop into a frustrating experience.

Noise, overcrowding, and confusing signage also contribute to stress, particularly in terminals handling massive passenger volumes. Travelers have reported having to navigate long corridors to locate functional restrooms, only to find them out of order or overcrowded.

To navigate these hidden challenges, it helps to plan your restroom breaks strategically, scout the nearest alternative facilities, and remain patient during peak travel periods.

Small preparations, like keeping a water-resistant pouch with essential hygiene items, can transform a potentially stressful stop into a much more manageable experience.

Photo: Emirates

How to Prepare for Less-Than-Ideal Airport Bathrooms

While you can’t always control the condition of airport restrooms, being prepared can make your experience more comfortable. Here are some tips:

• Carry Personal Hygiene Items: You should pack hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and tissues in your carry-on bag.
• Use Airport Lounges: Please remember that lounges often have cleaner and less crowded restrooms.
• Plan Ahead: Make sure that you schedule bathroom breaks before arriving at airports known for poor facilities.
• Stay Informed: One piece of advice would be to check Reddit or travel forums for up-to-date information on airport restroom conditions.

Comparison: Top 10 Worst Airport Bathrooms

Photo- Skytrax

Bottom Line

Airport bathrooms may not always meet expectations, but preparation can help you navigate them with confidence.

By carrying essential hygiene items and staying informed about the worst facilities, you can avoid uncomfortable surprises and make your journey more pleasant.

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The post Top 10 Worst Airport Washrooms in the World in 2025 appeared first on Aviation A2Z.