Alarm Clocks for Heavy Sleepers

For most of us, an alarm clock will wake us up each morning. For some however, sleeping through their alarm isn't uncommon. This is a problem of course when you have appointments, classes, or a job. For this reason, there are alarm clocks for heavy sleepers that have special features to get the job done.

Loud alarm clocks, clocks with bed shakers, and even those with flashing lights can help. Find tips for choosing the right alarm clock for a heavy sleeper and see some well-regarded models here on this page.

Photo by Brucebeh.

It isn't terribly complicated, but choosing alarm clocks for heavy sleepers requires you to think about just a few things:

How Do You Want To Be Wakened?

If someone is difficult to wake, there are really two primary means of assuring they will respond to an alarm clock. First, is to get a really loud alarm clock. One that has more volume. It may start off quietly and get louder, but at some point it may reach 85, 100, or maybe even 115dB.

A loud alarm clock does have some drawbacks of course. Number one is that it will likely disturb others. This may be someone in the same bed or someone in the room next door.

Another option is a vibrating alarm clock. They make much less noise and won't disturb others nearly so much. Often the vibrating pad is placed under the pillow. There are also vibrating wrist watch alarm clock models, but these are sometimes annoying to wear. Some alarm clocks offer both a loud alarm and a vibrating pad. Users can opt to use one or the other, or both features.

A final option is an alarm that also provides a flasher. Sometimes these alarm clocks connect with a bedside lamp for this purpose.

The Alarm

Compare the volume of the alarms when choosing these device. As mentioned above, some can sound an alarm as loud as 85dB, 100dB, and more. You may also want to select one that allows you to vary the tone of the alarm. Some people will awake more easily with a higher pitched, ringing alarm. Others might do better with a lower pitched noise. Being able to adjust the tone, helps assure you'll find the alarm that's right for you. Another consideration related to the alarm itself, is it's duration. If an an alarm rings for 30 seconds and stops, then it may not be the best choice for a heavy sleeper.

Other Features

You'll also need to consider other features that are important on any alarm. You'll need to be sure the display size and color will make it easy for you to read. You'll want adequate brightness as well, but not so bright it disturbs your sleep. Some of these alarms will allow you to adjust brightness. A snooze button is important too and certainly, if you sleep with someone else, having a dual alarm allows you to set a wake up time that suits both individuals. An alarm with AC/DC power can be more reliable if it also features battery back up.