Just get it over with — it’s best to shower at night

Graphic by Amelia Chang

Showering at night promotes good hygiene.

In 5th grade, everyone knew the reward for all our hard work was attending the annual science camp. But upon arriving at my cabin, I came to the horrific realization that I would have to shower in the morning. Soon, science camp seemed like it wasn’t going to be a highlight of the year after all…

Until then, I had never showered in the morning. It always made sense to me that you’d shower before bed, so you wouldn’t go to bed sweaty and disgusting from your day. 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, you should wash your bed sheets at least once every two weeks. But realistically, who would remember to do that so often? Showering at night largely eliminates the question of dirty bed sheets and helps keep them clean and free from pollen, dust and other bacteria that you’ve accumulated throughout the day.  

Furthermore, I’ve always had trouble falling asleep quickly, and taking a nice, warm shower before bed has always helped me relax. It also serves as a nice break from studying.  

Dr. Janet K. Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and sleep expert based out of New York, agrees, writing: “The body naturally cools down as bedtime approaches, in sync with the circadian rhythm,” she said. “Showering artificially raises the temperature again and allows for a faster cool down, which seems to hasten sleep.” 

For someone like me, who needs at least two blaring alarms or the blinding glare of the sun to get up in the morning, I barely have enough time to eat breakfast and get ready for school; it would be virtually impossible if I had to shower too. 

Some may argue that we sweat more at night and that a morning shower is more effective. I feel that this is probably more true for places with tropical climates or people who sweat at night. However, the weather in California is mild enough where you can choose not to wear wool pajamas or switch out a thicker blanket to combat even the hottest summers. 

Others might argue that showering in the morning gives you an “energy boost,” but realistically, that only works if you take a cold shower. But let’s be honest, who would actually want to begin their day with an ice bath? And even if you did, why bother showering? Just dunk a bucket of ice water over yourself.  

Think of showering at night as a wind down and a reward for a long day. Then, you won’t have to suffer by waking up earlier in the day. Showering at night is best since it keeps your environment free from bacteria and ensures a good, long night of sleep.