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The idea that some people can just fall asleep when they’re tired is astonishing to someone who has struggled with sleep for over a decade. After years of recounting my sleep issues to various doctors and feeling envious of those who can nap easily, I’ve developed skepticism about most sleep products and solutions.
That’s why I’m surprised that the Hatch alarm clock — a popular sleep gadget — has actually been helping me unwind at night.
What does a Hatch alarm clock do?
The Hatch Restore 3 is a high-end sunrise alarm clock that also functions as a sound machine and a color-changing lamp. Sunrise alarm clocks use gradually brightening light to signal to our bodies that it’s time to wake, creating a more gentle wake-up experience compared to harsh alarms.
But the Hatch Restore 3 acts as much as a sunset alarm clock. Our bodies respond well to light cues to get sleepy at night, and the Hatch’s features are mostly designed to help with evening wind-down routines. The paid subscription offers a variety of calming content, such as bedtime stories and podcasts, to help you relax before bed.
Sleep is second nature for some, but I have to hone it like a skill
For some, sleep comes naturally, but not for me. My mind is active at night, and even when I don’t use my phone before bed, I’m still wide awake, motivated to complete chores late at night. My sleep routine has been disrupted for years, but anxiety and racing thoughts have made sleep sustainability even more challenging as an adult.
I spent months trying to reset my sleep schedule, realizing that I needed a strict routine, similar to my skincare habits, to get back on track. I was curious if a sunrise alarm clock could help make my routine less daunting.
The Hatch Restore 3 is helping me romanticize routine
I’ve come around to the idea that using a sound machine can enhance my sleep routine, and the Hatch Restore 3 offers a unique experience. The speaker’s sound quality is exceptional, and the Hatch’s purpose is to inspire a pre-sleep routine.
My favorite feature is the “cue to unwind,” an automatic light and sound combination starting at 10:30 p.m. My brain enjoys repetition, which helps ingrains habits. Hatch sleep routines can include sleep-inducing sound and light combinations.
Free sunset routines dim the clock’s light to gently lull you to sleep, which is helpful before the actual sleep process begins. Unfortunately, the device isn’t waterproof, which limits its usability in the bathroom during my lengthy self-care routines.
In the morning, the gradual sunset begins before the alarm goes off, slowly brightening in warm tones. Fading in alarm sounds and bird chirps make waking up more pleasant.
Isn’t this all just stuff you could do without a $170 alarm clock?
The Hatch Restore 3’s features come with a premium price tag, though many are replicable with cheaper alternatives. Smart lightbulbs and lower-cost sound machines could achieve similar effects without the extra cost.
Can you use the Hatch Restore 3 without a subscription?
Yes, you can use the Hatch Restore 3 without a subscription. There are over 40 sleep sounds and 20+ free alarms. However, without a paid subscription, many entertainment options and sounds remain locked.
The subscription costs $4.99/month or $49.99/year and unlocks more sound options and sleep content. Without it, the entertainment aspect of a phone-free nightly routine is limited.
The actual sunrise part needs a relatively dark room
Without a dark room, you may not fully benefit from the Hatch Restore 3’s sunrise sequence. A dark environment or sleep mask can hinder the gradual light effect.
Is a Hatch alarm clock worth it?
If you struggle with chaos at bedtime or waking up, the Hatch Restore 3 could help organize your sleep routine. Its nightly unwind cues aid in creating a relaxing environment. While it hasn’t entirely cured my bedtime struggles, it has helped improve my routine slightly and is worth considering if other sleep products have been ineffective.