Here's why I convinced all my friends to buy this viral alarm clock

A little over a year ago, I decided I needed to change my sleep routine; I'd get in bed by 10 p.m., then spend hours mindlessly scrolling on my phone and before I knew it, it was almost morning. To change my ways, I bought the TikTok-viral Hatch Restore 3 Alarm Clock, which has a reputation for being a "bedtime-routine enhancer."

At first, I was hesitant to make the splurge purchase, but looking back I think it was the best $170 I’ve ever spent. There are few products that I give my full cosign to, but the Hatch Restore alarm clock is something I would recommend to anyone interested in a better way to fall asleep and wake up.

Since using my Hatch, I now look forward to going to sleep and don’t dread waking up in the morning. When I’m traveling, my Hatch is the thing I miss the most (sorry mom and dad). If you’re interested in disconnecting at night and peacefully waking up in the morning, here’s everything you need to know about how to use the Hatch Restore to create an 'unwind routine,' plus the added benefits of a Hatch+ subscription.

Quick verdict:

• What it is: A 3-in-1 alarm clock, night light, and sound machine that's designed to help you create a healthier bedtime routine.
• Best for: Night owls, doom-scrollers, or those struggling to sleep who want to cut down on their nightly screen time and wake up feeling more refreshed.
• Not ideal for: Those with limited nightstand space, as Hatch devices are on the larger side.

What makes the Hatch Restore different?

The Hatch Restore 3 alarm clock isn’t like the other girls; this genius sleep tool helps you build a sustainable wind-down routine where you can choose a series of sounds, songs, and short podcasts to play every time you sleep. Users are also able to choose a light color to accompany each sound.

When you wake up, you’ll be able to set your alarm to simulate a sun gradually rising about 30 minutes before the actual ringer (or audio of your choice) is set to go off. When the sun is finished rising, your alarm will then play; to turn on your bedtime routine and to shut the alarm off, you simply need to press the button on the top of the alarm — no phone necessary.

How to build an 'unwind routine' with Hatch Restore

Hatch users can set three different unwind routines; an unwind routine is meant to help ease you to sleep and prevent doomscrolling. My unwind playlist is by far my favorite part of my nighttime routine.

Users can customize their routine by choosing from hundreds of different sounds. I have one routine that I play when I’m not fully ready to sleep called the Doomscroll Detox; the routine begins with a 15-minute pop culture podcast playing and slowly fades into another podcast called “The Nightly” where the speakers discuss random stories. After the two podcasts are done playing, the alarm clock plays serene waterscape sounds followed by white noise until it’s time for me to wake up.

The usual routine I use is called Silent Mode; that routine begins with 30 minutes of midnight jazz piano followed by 45 minutes of Handpan Harmony. After the music is done, the sound of a blowing fan plays through the night until my alarm is ready to go off.

How does waking up with the Hatch Restore work?

Users can choose from hundreds of different alarm sounds to wake up to. I used to use Parisian Mornings, which mimics the sound of people in a French café with light French music playing. However, I found that I kept waking up disappointed that I wasn’t in Paris (the struggle is real), so I switched to Harmony at Dawn — an acoustic set. Each season brings about a whole new set of sounds; in the fall time, you can pick from the Gilmore Girls theme song, spooky Halloween music, and more.

When setting your alarm sound, you can also choose the “sunrise” color; other personalized options include how far before your alarm you want the sun to rise — the default time is 30 minutes — and how bright you want it to be. Plus, you can choose how loud you want the alarm volume, which is perfect if you’re a heavy sleeper like myself.

What are the benefits of getting Hatch+?

Hatch+ is a subscription service offered by Hatch which grants users access to a continuously updated library of sleep stories, meditations, soundscapes, and music. Subscribing to Hatch+ also opens up a whole new array of sunrise colors; you’ll also be able to create a more custom unwind routine and unlock exclusive alarm sounds. The subscription costs $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year.

Do I need Hatch+ subscription?

You do not need Hatch+ to use the alarm, however, if it’s within your budget, I highly recommend it; plans cost $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year. I’ve never used my alarm without it, so I can’t honestly say what the basic version is like, but I enjoy having full control over my unwind routine. If you’re simply using the alarm clock for the alarm and don’t care about unwinding, then Hatch+ may not be for you. But, if you’re buying the alarm to have a truly calm time going to sleep, then the subscription is worth it.

Is the Hatch Restore right for me?

The alarm clock is perfect for those looking to cut back on screen time and who may have a hard time falling asleep or waking up. Since using the alarm, I’ve found waking up to be much more enjoyable.

►Related: How to get better sleep: 10 tips for the bedtime routine of your dreams

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