Most of us keep our phones on us at all times. We rely on them for texts, emails, and easy payments. And let’s not forget the need to stay connected and make emergency calls. It’s no wonder that many of us reach for our phones as soon as we wake up to check all the notifications that arrived while we were sleeping.

But should we really be sleeping with our phones on or near us? The answer is probably not, and here’s why.

1. It puts our health at risk due to emitted radiation

Mobile phones emit radiation from transmission signals at around 900MHz. Keeping our phones close to our heads for long periods of time can lead to headaches, muscle pains, and other health issues.

While it’s understandable that we want to keep our phones nearby for various reasons while we sleep, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

2. It could prevent you from sleeping

LED screens, including those on cell phones, tablets, TVs, and other gadgets, emit blue light. Several studies have suggested that this type of light can disrupt the production of the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin and interfere with our circadian rhythms.

The exact reason for this is still unknown, but it’s possible that the wavelengths of blue light are similar to daylight, tricking our bodies into thinking it’s daytime regardless of the time.

3. It could set your pillow on fire

Some people are so attached to their phones that they even sleep with them under their pillows. This habit has led to cases where pillows have caught fire.

One notorious incident occurred in July 2014 when a teenager from Texas woke up to a burning smell. Her Samsung Galaxy S4, which was under her pillow, had scorched the sheet and mattress.

To avoid any potential risks, it is advisable to turn off the transceiver of your cell phone by keeping it in “airplane mode” while you sleep. Alternatively, you can simply turn off your phone, as cell phones emit electromagnetic radiation whenever they’re on.