Spring Forward Fall back: When do the clocks change?
In the UK, we change our clocks twice a year, this is called Daylight Saving Time.
During the spring season, we move our clocks forward by an hour to have more daylight in the evening. This helps us save energy and enjoy outdoor activities in the daylight for a longer time. In the autumn season, we move our clocks back to standard time to adjust to the darker days. This way, we can make the most of daylight throughout the year.
To remember this, we use the phrase “spring forward – fall back.”
But when do the clocks change? Read on to find out more.
When do the clocks go forward?
You may be wondering when does it get lighter in the morning? The clocks go forward on the 31st of March 2024.
Get ready to nudge your clocks ahead by one hour as daylight savings time kicks in. It’s like giving ourselves an extra burst of sunshine every evening, making it feel like Spring is here. As we embrace this change, let’s welcome the longer, brighter days.
What time do the clocks go forward?
Clocks will go forward at 2am in the morning. You’ll notice the clocks jump from 12:59 am straight to 2am, skipping that 1am hour entirely!
It’s a bit like time travel, smartphones and most devices will adjust automatically. So, when you wake up, you’ll already be in sync with the new time. Just don’t forget to change any manual household clocks. Just think of it as an extra hour of daylight to enjoy in the evenings!
But why do clocks change at 2am? It’s because this is a time when most people are asleep, and businesses are closed. Changing the clocks at this time means there’s less disruption to our daily routines.
When do the clocks go back?
On the 27th of October 2024, the clocks will go back. This means that we will gain an extra hour of sleep. The idea behind this, is to make the most of the daylight during the darker winter months. By turning the clocks back, we’ll get more daylight in the morning, which is great for daily activities like going to work or school.
The clocks will change gain at 2am. This time the clocks will jump from 1:59am to 1am.
Why do we change the clocks twice a year?
Changing the clocks in the UK originated during World War I as a clever way to save energy. By moving the clocks forward in spring and back in fall, people were able to make better use of daylight and reduce the need for artificial lighting in the evenings. This saved energy and reduced environmental impact.
Since then, this has become a seasonal tradition aimed at maximising daylight hours and saving energy.
How does the clock change impact your sleep?
The clock changes can affect our sleep patterns. It’s common to have trouble falling asleep at night or to wake up feeling tired in the morning when our schedules suddenly shift.
Our bodies need time to adapt to the new time, which might take a few days. But don’t worry, this adjustment period is temporary. Soon enough, things will return to normal, and you’ll start feeling well rested again.
Follow these top tips to help you adjust your sleep pattern.
1. Gradually adjust your bedtime
When the clocks go forward in Spring, gradually adjust your bedtime by going to bed and waking up 15-30 minutes earlier in the days leading up to the clock change.
In the Autumn when the clocks go back, gradually shift your bedtime and wake-up time 15-30 minutes later. This gradual transition helps your body adapt to the new schedule more smoothly, whether you’re gaining or losing an hour of sleep.
2. Stick to a bedtime routine
It’s important to establish a calming bedtime routine that helps you relax and achieve restful sleep. By winding down before bed, you signal to your body and mind that it’s time to relax and prepare for sleep.
To maintain consistency, try to stick to the same routine even when the clocks change. This ensures that your body receives the same relaxing signals despite the different time. Check out our blog for helpful advice on ways to relax and wind down before bed.
3. Refresh your bedding
Sleeping in fresh bedding after the clock change can make a big difference in how well you sleep. The fresh scent and soothing feeling you get from fresh bedding can help you feel more relaxed and ready for sleep.
So, take advantage of the clock change as an opportunity to treat yourself to a bedtime upgrade with fresh bedding, your sleep will thank you for it!
Spring bedding must-haves
Spring brings lighter days and warmer weather which means it’s time for a bedding refresh.
Silentnight Airmax Collection
Freshen up your sleep routine with our Spring bedding must haves such as the Silentnight Airmax Range. This bedding collection offers unparalleled breathability and comfort which is perfect for Spring.
Our bestselling Silentnight Airmax 1000 Mattress Topper breathes new life into your bed by adding an extra deep 10cm of comfort on top of your mattress. This mattress topper’s air mesh walls and quilted construction means that air can flow freely around you keeping you feeling cool, comfortable, and refreshed.
Team this with the Silentnight Airmax Pillows for fully breathable bedtime bliss. The pillows feature air mesh sides for air to move freely around your head.
Silentnight Anti-Allergy Collection
Spring can trigger allergies with all the pollen in the air. But don’t worry, our anti-allergy bedding can help!
Our Silentnight Anti-Allergy Duvet’s and Silentnight Anti-Allergy Mattress Topper’s are filled with special anti-allergy treated fibres that actively protect against bacteria and dust mites, ensuring you a restful and sneeze-free night’s sleep.
So, you can say goodbye those pesky allergies and hello to a refreshing undisturbed sleep with our anti-allergy bedding.
In summary, changing our clocks twice a year helps us make the most of daylight. When we spring forward in March, we gain more daylight in the evenings. When we fall back in October, we gain an extra hour of sleep in the morning.
These changes can affect our sleep patterns temporarily but adjusting bedtime gradually and sticking to a routine can help. Plus, refreshing your bedding can ensure a comfortable sleep. So, let’s embrace the seasonal changes and enjoy their benefits.