Bringing your Laptop to bed appears to give comfort and convenience, whether you’re trying to get a little more work done in the evening or to unwind with a movie.
It is very easy to slip into the habit of using Laptops on beds. However, there is not much effect on your Laptop for short intervals.
However, prolonged use of a Laptop on the bed disrupts the health of your Laptop as well as your body.
We know about the bad posture we get or the constant diversion of focus, but with a Laptop’s portability, the options we can enjoy are quite tempting.
You may be reading this on your Laptop while comfortably sitting on your bed!
Placing Laptops on the bed while working can seriously damage computer peripherals. It induces overheating, system crashes, bad posture, or even a Fire hazard. Numerous ergonomic measures, such as purchasing a good stand and cooling pads, can help avoid many problems and extend your Laptop’s life.
So, this article will guide you to the reasons for not placing the Laptop in the bed, along with some ergonomic tips and advice.
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Reasons to Not Put your Laptop on Bed
First, learn about the disadvantages before finding possible solutions and alternatives.
1. Overheating of Laptop
The majority of Laptops have cooling fans beneath the Laptop motherboard. This implies that heat is dispersed via the Laptop’s bottom.
As a result, using Laptops on beds will block the fan vents and overheat the device.
In general, air circulation is critical in Laptops for cooling internal electronics. Long-term overheating can destroy numerous Laptop components.
It even slows down your system and decreases the lifespan of your device.
If you keep Laptops on soft surfaces like pillows and mattresses, you will notice how it sinks into them, blocking the cooling slots. This is exactly what we do not need.
Stay tuned to learn about the solutions for this issue.
2. Increases the Risk of Fire Hazards
Fire hazards relate to overheating issues in Laptops when your bed obstructs the cooling fans.
A bed and a working Laptop may be a hazardous mix.
If you leave a running Laptop on top of a soft comforter, it might overheat and result in a shock circuit in the Laptop, ultimately causing a fire.
According to research, Lithium-Ion batteries, which are used in almost every Laptop and other gadget, can potentially be a “Mini-Bomb” in your pocket or desk.
While working on your Laptop, you might not notice when you fall asleep.
However, the Laptop can then stay active for long hours, potentially overheating more than normal due to the soft sheets under it.
Even a small short circuit can cause a big Fire to start and cause irreparable damage to your beloved possessions.
Moreover, the fact that you could be asleep can cause a bigger uproar to ensue.
Not only that, if you don’t get to put out the fire on time, it could spread to wires, multi-plugs, adaptors, etc.
Hence, it is smart not to use Laptops in bed as much as possible.
Learn more: What are the Chances of Laptop Catching on a Fire?
3. Slowed Performance
Modern computers have cooling vents and automatic shutdown mechanisms when the system gets too hot.
However, the inability of a system to cool down comes with multiple risks.
The computer system will slow down its working components to create less heat and cool the component.
It leads to the user noticing the lack of proper performance of the device.
The highest temperature at which a vendor would guarantee performance and reliability throughout the warranty term is usually 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
Research suggests that a rise in temperature for hours on end shortens the equipment’s lifespan and ability to work smoothly.
When components become extremely hot, they will typically shut down automatically and soon as possible.
If your device suddenly turns off, all unsaved data can be lost.
Some gadgets may remain turned off until cold enough to work again.
4. Accidental Spillage of Drinks
People spill liquids on their computers all the time.
However, using Laptops on beds increases the risks of electrical and physical damage. People may want to eat breakfast in bed or drink something before bed.
But, one small mistake and you may lose your Laptop and the data on it. For example, you may be too invested in the task and not realize your drink’s position.
Moreover, you may fall asleep not knowing that your drink has spilled into a working laptop.
The faster you can shut down the system, the higher chances of saving it from spills. Also, bits from bread and other snacks can get stuck to the peripherals and damage them.
You may consider taking it to a computer repair Company, but the cost may be more than the Laptop’s worth.
If the computer is kept on for an extended period, it may produce a short circuit.
Read more: Spilled Milk on Laptop: What to do Next?
5. Bad Posture
Using Laptops on the bed compels you to keep your neck at uncomfortable angles, creating cervical difficulties.
You end up gazing at a screen that’s not at eye level. This may seem like a small issue if you only use your Laptop on your bed for a short time.
As you focus on checking that email, you won’t realize that your muscles are tensed or strained.
Sitting for a prolonged time causes you to lean forward and round your shoulders. But, of course, this is even more exaggerated when a bed is involved.
You will naturally try to bend, twist and turn, which will cause muscular disorders.
In today’s world, the number of people suffering from bad posture is increasingly alarming.
A study has shown that many undergraduate students suffer from musculoskeletal pain due to bad posture.
Bad posture is also a key factor for headaches, disrupted digestion, poor circulation, joint stiffness, and much more.
6. Lack of Quality Sleep
Although it may be tempting to be on your Laptop before bed, studies have shown that artificial lights from these gadgets can disrupt sleep and even cause cardiovascular or metabolic dysfunctions.
The melatonin synthesis is decreased, a natural hormone produced in the evening to make you sleepy and ready for bed.
Melatonin levels peak at about one o’clock, ensuring a restful night’s sleep.
However, artificial light can disrupt this cycle, causing it to peak rather late.
Blue light can also limit slow-wave and rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep, which is critical for cognitive performance.
Moreover, you feel tired the next day even if you get enough hours of sleep.
The Circadian Rhythm is a biological clock that runs 24 hours a day.
Sleeping close to your Laptop makes your brain inadequate to distinguish when to fall asleep or be awake. Research shows the harmful impacts imposed.
It even results in less energy and a lack of alertness. Therefore, it is best to follow the circadian cycle.
Learn more on: Should you Place the Computer in your Bedroom?
7. Eye Problems
When looking at a digital screen, your eyes have to work harder. This is exaggerated when you start viewing computers from awkward angles.
As a result, many people are prone to vision-related illnesses.
For example, Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) or digital eye-strain symptoms can worsen by uncorrected posture and view.
Individuals tilt their heads at strange angles or lean forward to view the screen better.
This is a recipe for disaster as it causes muscle spasms or soreness in the neck, shoulder, or back.
In most instances, CVS arises because the visual demands of the task at hand surpass the individual’s visual capacity.
Research suggests that Laptops on an ergonomic setup are best for long-term posture and eye strength.
Therefore, as measured from the middle of the screen, the computer screen should be 15 to 20 degrees below eye level (about 4 or 5 inches).
8. Decreased Productivity
When you play games, watch movies, work, or even study on your bed, your brain has difficulty linking your bed to rest and sleep.
As a result, you will feel lazy while working from bed but have a harder time falling asleep when it is time for bed.
It affects your work and the mental state you stay in.
Therefore, it is always best to have a separate spot for relaxing, eating, and working above others.
If you are not careful in maintaining proper boundaries, you may feel like you are always at work and lose a place where you feel relaxed.
It makes you feel sluggish, demotivated, and exhausted, which might result in mental health difficulties, including poor emotions and anxiety.
In addition, insomnia is the most common issue that affects job productivity.
Why Shouldn’t you Put your Laptop on Pillow?
When you set an electronic item on a soft surface like a bed or a blanket, it sinks into it, blocking the cooling slots.
Bed covers and pillows block the air intake ports on the bottom of the Laptop, substantially decreasing air movement and causing the temperature within the case to rise to dangerous levels.
However, if you check below your Laptop, you’ll notice that it has a cooling slot made to regulate temperature.
Resting it on a soft surface prevents air circulation, making it practically impossible for your Laptop to maintain a consistent temperature.
Similarly, you’ll notice little feet or stud-like structures near the ends under your Laptop that provide a small space between it and the surface it is kept on.
But, this only holds effect when the device is placed on a hard surface.
If you wish to work or rest in bed with your Laptop, you should never place it directly on the bed or, especially, on a soft pillow.
Otherwise, the airflow block builds heat inside the case and damages internal components.
Use Laptop on Bed Without Overheating
It’s quite acceptable to want to use your Laptop in bed.
But, you can easily prevent overheating by ensuring it’s rested on a lap desk or any other firm surface like a thick hardback book.
Several other options are below to answer this question, each with its advantages.
1. Laptop Desks/Stands
Suppose you are someone who works from your Laptop for long hours for too many days a week.
An easy solution may be to invest in a foldable laptop stand that doesn’t take up much space.
They provide an easy fix and last for a long time.
As a result, these desks are gaining popularity as they are a great tool for students and office workers to keep items organized and well-kept.
Advantages of Laptop Desks
- They are inexpensive and provide the best value for your money.
- It ensures that your Laptop is not accidentally knocked off your bed.
- They are lightweight and portable.
- Most of them have the versatility of adjustable heights as well.
- You can safely place drinks, food, or other items on your bed.
- Your wrists stay well-rested, and your eyes get less strain from uncomfortable angles.
- It also aids in the proper posture of the body.
Read more to learn about the amazing benefits of Laptop stand.
2. Use a Cooling Pad
All laptops will heat up with long hours and use. This also depends on the model you’re using or your laptop’s age.
A cooling pad helps in regulating the temperature of the internal components.
If your Laptop has been used for many years, its vents are more likely to be blocked. The internal cooling system may also have become slow.
A cooling pad for your Laptop may be the right choice.
Advantages of Using a Cooling Pad
- It minimizes the noise caused by overheating.
- They are a combination of a sturdy base and a better temperature regulator.
- It can be powered easily.
- They take up less space than a laptop desk.
- It is best for people who run heavy-duty programs.
- It is inexpensive and portable.
You can find these on Amazon: Laptop cooling pads
3. Use your TV to Connect your Laptop
If you have a TV in front of your bed, it might be a good idea to connect your Laptop to your TV through an HDMI cable or Bluetooth and use it as the monitor.
Then, get yourself a mouse and keyboard to do your work.
But, it might be difficult to work on a TV if it isn’t close enough or the screen isn’t large enough.
Moreover, you’ll also need to buy some peripherals, such as a wireless mouse or keyboard.
Advantages of Using TV as a Monitor
- It solves the issue caused by overheating in laptops.
- You can take quality movie breaks every once in a while.
- It helps maintain the cleanliness of the Laptop as well as your bed.
- Even if you accidentally fall asleep, there are fewer fire hazards.
- Less wire and equipment clutter.
Learn more on: Should You Set Up your Home Office with a TV?
4. Creating Airflow Using Simple Items
The most important thing you can do is raise it off the cloth. Although dedicated gear is cheap and safer, you can use household materials without investing in expensive gear.
You could, for example, raise your Laptop with a stack of books. Any other firm base that can elevate your Laptop from your bed works. It could even be a handful of board game boxes.
Advantages
- It is an inexpensive alternative.
- You can reuse old books and boxes.
- You can even DIY a stand from boxes via tutorials.
- Old trays or even wooden cutting boards can be used.
Check out for more: Should you put your PC on Carpet?
5. Clean your Laptops
The first and most crucial thing you should do is clean the cooling fans.
They accumulate layers of dust and grime over time, slowing them down and blocking airflow.
The dust and cotton fibers from the bed can get sucked into the Laptop and eventually obstruct proper airflow.
Consult your Laptop’s manual if you want to learn how to open the case to access and clean parts.
However, double-check the instruction booklet to ensure you aren’t voiding the warranty before dismantling your Laptop.
Read More: How Often should you Clean your Computer?
Blowing compressed air into your Laptop, and aiming it toward the cooling vents is a much safer and speedier solution.
But, use small bursts of air when doing this. You can also clean the screen using a microfiber cloth and some cleaning solution.
Similarly, there are small brushes that you can purchase to dust out the keyboard.
It is recommended that three to four months is a decent time frame to clean your Laptop.
However, if you use it daily on your bed, have dogs, or store the computer on the floor, you will most likely need to clean it more frequently.
Learn more on: How to Clean PC and Laptop Without Compressed Air?
Final Verdict
Laptops are a piece of essential equipment in our daily lives.
It is portable and small, so it is tempting to use laptops on the bed even if you have created a desk set up for work.
Using laptops on beds can be comfortable and cozy to work from, but we must be aware of all the risks.
All of the information listed above must have helped you get an insight into what you may think is a trivial matter.
Alternatively, you can also look into buying well-designed laptops to prevent overheating as much as possible.
Always remember that using tables and laptop stands is not only to prevent overheating but also to make sure that you avoid terrible posture and eye strain.
In addition, the correct cushions, laptop stands, anti-eyestrain glasses, etc., can improve your productivity while preventing pain and fatigue.
We hope you can now discover the best solution according to your needs!
Discover more on: How to Work from Bed Comfortably with a Laptop?
