What Time Of Day You Should Really Take Your Shower

Many of us don't really feel awake until we get into a nice, hot shower first thing in the morning. But is that the best way to start your day? As it turns out, the germaphobes among us were right — when it comes to your health, showering before bed is actually the best way to go.

If you're attached to your morning rinse, we get it — nothing quite like a shower to make you feel ready to tackle your day. But the reasoning behind showering at night is pretty compelling.

For one thing, showering at night can help remove accumulated dirt and grime from the day (via Today). This makes a big difference for people who are especially sensitive to seasonal allergies, as it helps remove allergens that can contaminate your bedsheets. According to Everyday Health, it's also helpful if you're trying to avoid bringing home viruses like COVID-19, which can be killed by soap and water.

If you struggle with falling asleep, moving your shower to the evening might be just the solution to send you off to dreamland. According to the European Journal of Applied Physiology and Occupational Physiology, bathing before bed results in less tossing and turning and more restful slumber. Dr. Janet Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and sleep expert, speculates that this is tied to the body's circadian rhythm, which triggers a drop in temperature just before bed (via The New York Times). She says, "Showering artificially raises the temperature again and allows for a faster cool down, which seems to hasten sleep."

Not sure how you're ever going to wake yourself up without that morning shower? Try starting your day with a brisk walk instead. According to Healthline, this boosts your energy, mood, mental clarity, and helps you sleep better at night. And you can cross exercise off your list for the day, too.