N※N

TSA issues a PSA to those packing this battery-operated toiletry item

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. packing-this-battery-operated-toiletry-item.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Saturday, September 20th 2025 at 11:55 GMT by Lehigh Valley Live
          ^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

TSA Issues a New Public‑Service Announcement for Travelers Packing Battery‑Operated Toiletry Items

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched a new public‑service announcement (PSA) aimed at clarifying the rules that govern how travelers may pack battery‑powered toiletry items in their carry‑on luggage. The notice—published in a September 2025 edition of Lehigh Valley Live—highlights the agency’s ongoing efforts to keep air‑travel safety up to date as the marketplace for small electronic grooming devices expands. The PSA, accompanied by a short video that explains the requirements in plain language, addresses common questions about devices such as electric toothbrushes, portable hair dryers, travel-sized razors, and other small appliances that are powered by rechargeable lithium‑ion batteries.

Why a PSA Is Needed

In recent years, the proliferation of compact, battery‑driven personal care gadgets has made it increasingly difficult for travelers to know whether a device is allowed in the cabin or in checked luggage. The TSA’s guidelines for lithium‑ion batteries have always stressed that large batteries—those above 100 Wh (watt‑hours)—are prohibited in checked baggage and can only be carried in the cabin, while small batteries (usually less than 10 Wh) can be included in either carry‑on or checked luggage. However, many new products on the market blur the line between “small” and “large” batteries. Some electric razors contain a single 6 Wh battery that is removable, while other devices—such as some portable hair straighteners—contain a sealed 15 Wh battery that is not removable. Travelers frequently misinterpret the rules, packing these items in the checked bag or leaving them behind, which can lead to delays, confiscation, or even safety incidents if a battery malfunctions during flight.

The PSA seeks to reduce confusion by outlining the simplest path for travelers: 1) identify whether the device has a removable battery; 2) check the battery’s watt‑hour rating; and 3) place the device in a dedicated plastic bag if the battery is removable or, if the battery is sealed but under 100 Wh, place the device in the carry‑on. The video, which is available on the TSA’s YouTube channel and the Lehigh Valley Live website, also provides a visual checklist that helps travelers verify whether they have followed the proper procedure.

Key Takeaways from the TSA Guidance

The article summarises the main points of the TSA’s updated guidance, which can also be found on the official TSA website (https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening). The agency’s policy for battery‑powered personal care items is essentially an extension of its general lithium‑ion battery rules, with a few important nuances:

In addition, the TSA notes that “devices with a removable battery are allowed in checked baggage only if the battery is fully removed and placed in a separate, non‑flammable container (typically a sealed plastic bag).” The agency stresses that this rule applies to all portable electric grooming devices, not just the items listed in the table above. Travelers are encouraged to check the battery’s label or the manufacturer’s website to confirm the watt‑hour rating, as some devices do not display it prominently.

How to Verify Battery Capacity

The TSA website hosts a handy battery‑capacity calculator that allows users to estimate the watt‑hour rating of a battery by entering its voltage and amp‑hour rating (https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/batteries). This tool is referenced in the article’s “Additional Resources” section, which encourages readers to perform a quick check before they head to the airport. The calculator explains that:

1. Wh = Voltage (V) × Current (Ah)
2. If the device lists its battery as “6 V, 1.5 Ah,” the Wh rating is 9 Wh.
3. If the rating exceeds 100 Wh, the device is prohibited in both carry‑on and checked baggage unless the manufacturer has received a special clearance.

The article also warns that some manufacturers round up the watt‑hour rating for marketing purposes. In such cases, travelers should err on the side of caution and treat the device as if it were above the 100 Wh threshold.

TSA’s Broader Focus on Lithium‑Ion Safety

The PSA is part of a larger TSA campaign aimed at improving safety for all travelers. The agency’s “Travel Safe” website (https://www.tsa.gov/travel) offers a variety of tips, from how to pack liquids to how to identify potential fire hazards. The article references the “TSA’s 2025 Safety Bulletin” which highlights recent incidents involving overheating battery‑powered devices on aircraft. The bulletin notes that “proper storage and removal of batteries are key to preventing accidental fires.” TSA officials say that the new PSA is expected to reduce the number of battery‑related security incidents by educating passengers before they board.

What Travelers Should Do Now

The Lehigh Valley Live article outlines a step‑by‑step plan for readers:

1. Check the battery: If the device’s battery is removable, remove it and place it in a clear plastic bag. If it is sealed, confirm the watt‑hour rating using the TSA calculator.
2. Place the device: If the battery is <100 Wh and sealed, keep the device in its original case and store it in your carry‑on. If the battery is removable and <10 Wh, place the battery in a separate plastic bag.
3. Pack the rest: Keep the device in your carry‑on or checked bag according to the rules above; do not mix it with other large batteries.
4. Check the TSA website: If you’re unsure about a particular product, look up the model on the TSA site or contact the manufacturer for clarification.
5. Stay informed: Subscribe to TSA alerts or follow their social media channels to stay updated on any rule changes.

The PSA also encourages travelers to download the TSA’s “Check-in App” (available on iOS and Android) that provides a quick reference to the latest security guidelines, including a section on battery‑powered devices.

Conclusion

By issuing a PSA that clarifies the packaging and transport rules for battery‑operated toiletry items, the TSA hopes to make air travel safer and more predictable for everyone. With the ever‑increasing popularity of portable grooming devices, such guidance is essential for preventing misunderstandings that could lead to security delays or even fire hazards. The article on Lehigh Valley Live serves as a comprehensive summary of the TSA’s key points, supplemented by useful resources such as the battery‑capacity calculator, the TSA’s safety bulletin, and the agency’s online “Travel Safe” portal. Travelers who take the time to follow the recommendations outlined in the PSA will be better equipped to comply with airport security protocols, ensuring a smoother journey from check‑in to boarding.