A survey of 2,000 people in the United Kingdom has shed light on common morning habits and routines, revealing varied preferences in how Britons start their day. According to the study, 34% of respondents get out of bed immediately when their alarm sounds, while 26% tend to hit the snooze button once or twice before rising. Another 20% spend several minutes sitting on the edge of the bed in a period described as “processing reality” prior to getting up.
The poll also explored preferences in morning hygiene and beverage choices. A majority of participants maintain a consistent morning routine, with 83% adhering to a regular schedule. Showers are favored over baths as part of the morning ritual, with 42% choosing to shower after waking. Meanwhile, 23% take their showers at night, and the remainder either have no preference or vary between the two. Coffee emerged as the most popular morning drink, preferred by 36% of respondents, slightly overtaking tea, which was favored by 32%.
Technology plays an immediate role in many morning routines, as nearly half of those surveyed (47%) reported checking their phones within five minutes of waking. Only 3% said they avoid looking at their devices altogether in the morning.
The survey also highlighted a longstanding debate regarding dental hygiene timing, with the population evenly split: 45% brush their teeth before breakfast, 45% after, and 10% stated they do not follow a specific order.
Additional insights from the survey addressed other morning habits, including condiments and breakfast preferences. When asked about sauces for eggs, 18% admitted to using ketchup, while 13% have tried salad cream. Regarding cereal, 35% of participants have poured juice over their cereal instead of milk, a practice others might consider unconventional. Views on the correct order of pouring cereal and milk differ as well, with 25% insisting milk should never precede cereal, although 8% acknowledged they have done so.
The research was commissioned by the Holiday Inn Express group, which collaborated with comedian Rob Beckett on the campaign titled The Great Wake-up Debate. Beckett commented on the findings, noting that morning routines provoke strong opinions and can be a source of friendly disagreement among people. He highlighted the contrast between early risers who are active and cheerful before 7 a.m. and those who need time to fully wake up, remarking on how passionately people defend their preferences, especially the choice between tea and coffee.