The Great Snooze Debate: What Science Says About Your Morning Wake-Up Habit

The effect snoozing has hinges on how long you do it.

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In the blurred moments between dreams and reality, nearly 60 percent of us succumb to the temptation of the snooze button. But behind this daily ritual lies a mystery: Does it actually help us get more rest, as we intend it to do, or does it shroud us in a groggy fog?

A two-part study published in the Journal of Sleep Research unveils some insights. Those extra moments may benefit some people, but the reason for hitting the button and the amount of time matter.

Bottom Line: There Is Little Downside to Short Snoozes

The first study was a survey examining the snoozing habits of over 1,700 adults. Nearly 70 percent reported using the snooze function or multiple alarms at least sometimes, spending an average of 22 extra minutes in bed past their preset alarm. These snoozers tended to be younger and more likely to be night owls. They also reported more morning drowsiness and shorter sleep times than non-snoozers.