Why Your Snooze Button Habit Might Be Hurting More Than Helping
Hitting the snooze button is a morning habit for many, especially among young adults and night owls. While new research suggests it may not seriously harm sleep quality, experts warn that frequent snoozing could signal deeper issues. Studies also show mixed effects, with some people experiencing no major downsides—yet others facing real risks.
A recent study involving 31 participants found that snoozing neither improved nor worsened performance on cognitive tests. This challenges the idea that brief extra sleep boosts alertness. However, the evidence still leans toward more drawbacks than benefits, particularly for those with sleep disorders.
Repeatedly interrupting sleep with the snooze button can disrupt REM, the restorative phase of rest. It may also trigger a stress response, leaving people groggy rather than refreshed. Over time, poor sleep habits—like relying on snoozing—have been linked to weight gain, heart problems, and even shorter lifespans. Health professionals generally advise against frequent snoozing, even if it doesn’t harm everyone. When daily snoozing leads to tiredness or poor sleep, they recommend reviewing overall sleep hygiene instead. The habit is especially common in young adults and those who naturally stay up late, but it might mask an underlying lack of proper rest.
For most people, occasional snoozing may not cause serious harm, but it offers little benefit. Those with sleep disorders or chronic fatigue should pay closer attention to their habits. If waking up remains a struggle, experts suggest addressing sleep duration and quality rather than relying on the snooze button.
