What must a flight attendant check in the lavatories before leaving the aircraft?

Ensuring that the lavatories are clean and functional is a critical responsibility for a flight attendant before leaving the aircraft. A clean and operational lavatory significantly enhances the passenger experience and upholds the airline's standards of safety and hygiene. Passengers rely on these facilities, and if a lavatory is not in proper working order, it can lead to discomfort or dissatisfaction during the flight.

Furthermore, cleanliness is essential for preventing the spread of germs and maintaining a hygienic environment onboard. The flight attendant’s role includes making sure that the lavatories meet these cleanliness and functionality standards to ensure a pleasant travel experience for everyone on board.

While replenishing supplies, checking signage, and ensuring emergency equipment presence are important tasks, the primary focus before deplaning is on the immediate usability and hygiene of the lavatories, which directly impacts passengers' comfort and health.