Written by Celeste Parler, Mattress Clarity Writer
Before going to bed, many people plug in their smartphone so it can charge overnight. But if you continue to use your smartphone in bed while it’s plugged in, you should know that it comes with some risks. Apple recently published an updated iPhone user guide that warns against this habit.
New Safety Warning from Apple
In the latest iPhone User Guide, Apple cautions users from charging their phone in bed. Specifically, the company warns prolonged heat exposure from a running or plugged-in device can result in discomfort or injury.
Apple states, “…Don’t sleep on a device, power adapter, or wireless charger, or place them under a blanket, pillow, or your body, when it’s connected to a power source.”
Apple says to “use common sense” while you are in contact with a device plugged in for long periods of time, such as charging your phone overnight. The safest way to charge your phone while you are asleep is to set your phone on a solid surface in a well-ventilated area.
“Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in fire, electric shock, injury, or damage to iPhone or other property,” the iPhone User Guide says.
Phones and Sleep Hygiene
Scrolling through your phone before bed isn’t great for your overall sleep hygiene. Smartphones emit blue light that tells your brain to not release melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating your circadian rhythm. When you scroll through your phone, it could take longer for you to fall asleep, which may prevent you from getting a full night of sleep.
Regardless if your phone is connected to a power source or not, it is not recommended to sleep with your phone in your bed. Falling asleep on top of your phone can wake you up in the middle of night as you shift sleeping positions. Scrolling on your phone in bed can also cause you to fall asleep with your neck propped up incorrectly, leading to neck pain.
Final Thoughts
Although it’s common to plug in your smartphone before bed, keeping your phone in your bed while it’s connected to power has its risks. Because heat is generated from running or charging smartphones, Apple urges users to charge their phones in well-ventilated areas. To practice proper sleep hygiene and prevent injury, place your phone out of arm’s reach.