We’ve all been guilty of leaving our devices plugged in overnight, thinking it’s harmless. However, habitual overnight charging can degrade battery health and even pose safety risks. Here are five devices you should reconsider charging while you sleep.
Smartphones
It’s convenient to leave your smartphone charging overnight, but this habit can cause the battery to degrade faster. Most modern smartphones are equipped with lithium-ion batteries, which are sensitive to overcharging. According to a study, charging a phone overnight can lead to overheating and reduced battery lifespan. Consider using a smart plug to manage charging times or charge your phone during the day for optimal battery health.
Laptops
Laptops often have larger batteries than phones, yet they aren’t immune to the perils of overnight charging. Keeping a laptop plugged in for extended periods can lead to overheating, especially if it’s left on a soft surface that traps heat. A research paper highlights that excessive heat is detrimental to battery longevity. To preserve your laptop’s battery life, unplug it once it’s fully charged or use a cooling pad to disperse heat efficiently.
Tablets
Tablets, much like smartphones, utilize lithium-ion batteries that are susceptible to damage from overcharging. Overnight charging can cause battery swelling and reduced capacity over time. According to discussions on Reddit, users have noted decreased battery performance after frequent overnight charges. To extend the life of your tablet, try charging it during the day when you can monitor its progress.
Bluetooth Earbuds
Bluetooth earbuds may not seem like a significant worry, but their tiny batteries can suffer from overnight charging. Constantly keeping them plugged in can lead to battery swelling and reduced playback time. Additionally, leaving earbuds in the charging case while it’s plugged overnight can be harmful. To keep your earbuds in peak condition, unplug them once fully charged and avoid leaving them in the case for extended periods when it’s connected to a power source.
Smartwatches
Smartwatches are designed to be worn all day, but their batteries can be compromised by overnight charging. Continuous charging can lead to overheating and diminished battery life. According to a study, excessive heat can accelerate battery degradation. To maximize your smartwatch’s lifespan, charge it during the day or set an alarm to unplug it once it’s fully charged.