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You have to brush your teeth and change into your pajamas just before bed, right?

But although these activities are necessary, they could be keeping you awake.

A mom and son brush their teeth before going to bed

That way, you could focus fully on relaxing, with no rude awakenings.

Why teeth brushing might be waking you up

We’re not suggesting anyone stop brushing their teeth.

It’s absolutely a vital evening task.

A woman waking up in bed after a bad night’s sleep

It involves a double whammy of wake-up: bright bathroom lights and invigorating scents.

When we should be calming our senses to prepare for bed, we’re actually doing the opposite.

Teeth brushing isn’t the only common pre-bed habit that might be harming your sleep.

Man lies in bed with one hand behind his head

And like brushing your teeth, washing your face involves exposure to bright lights and potentially strong smells.

Here’s exactly when to do them for your best chance of a restful night.

Minty fresh teeth can also discourage you from pre-bed snacking (as per the10-3-2-1-0 sleep rule).

For a start, you avoid the last minute sensory stimulation of changing your clothes.

In addition, pajamas convey that cozy and relaxed feeling you want as you go through your bedtime routine.

Another surprising benefit is that you might feel less stressed lying in bed.