Is It Dangerous to Sleep Next to a Wi-Fi Router?
- Fysiobasen
- Oct 7
- 3 min read
In today’s digital world, it is almost impossible to avoid wireless networks, also known as Wi-Fi, which give us internet access via radio frequencies. Many people keep Wi-Fi routers at home, often close to where they sleep. But could it be harmful to your health to sleep next to a Wi-Fi router? Here we review what research says about Wi-Fi radiation and possible health risks.
How Does a Wi-Fi Router Work?
A Wi-Fi router works by sending and receiving wireless signals that provide internet access. The router uses radio frequencies (RF) to communicate with your devices at home, such as mobile phones, computers, smart TVs and more.
These signals are a form of non-ionizing radiation, which is different from ionizing radiation such as X-rays or gamma rays. Non-ionizing radiation is considered less harmful because it does not have enough energy to remove electrons from atoms or molecules, which can lead to cell damage.
Is Wi-Fi Radiation Dangerous?
The question of whether Wi-Fi radiation is dangerous has been widely debated. The radiation emitted by Wi-Fi routers is classified as non-ionizing, and according to the World Health Organization (WHO), this type of radiation is generally considered safe at the levels we are exposed to in everyday use of wireless technology¹.
Are There Any Health Risks?
While there is little evidence suggesting Wi-Fi radiation is directly harmful, some people report experiencing symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and sleep difficulties when exposed to wireless radiation over time.
This condition is often referred to as electromagnetic hypersensitivity. However, WHO does not recognize it as a medical diagnosis². Research in this area is ongoing, and more scientific data is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn about the causes of these symptoms.
What Does the Research Say?
Studies on Wi-Fi radiation and health have produced mixed results. Most research concludes that the radiation levels emitted by Wi-Fi routers are far below those that can cause cellular damage³.
The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), an independent body providing guidelines on radiation safety, has stated that Wi-Fi radiation does not pose a health risk as long as it remains within recommended exposure limits⁴.
A few studies have suggested that long-term exposure could have biological effects, but these findings are not well documented. Overall, there is little evidence that Wi-Fi radiation causes serious or lasting health effects under normal living conditions⁵.
Can Wi-Fi Radiation Affect Sleep?
Some claims suggest that being close to a Wi-Fi router may interfere with sleep, as radiation could affect melatonin production—a hormone essential for regulating sleep cycles.
Melatonin production naturally increases in darkness, and some researchers believe electromagnetic radiation might disrupt this process. However, several studies have concluded that the impact of Wi-Fi radiation on sleep is negligible for most people, and any sleep disturbances are more likely due to other factors such as stress or poor sleep hygiene⁶.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
If you are concerned about Wi-Fi radiation while sleeping, there are simple steps you can take to reduce exposure:
Turn off your Wi-Fi router at night: This reduces exposure when not in use.
Place the router further away from your bed: Increasing the distance decreases exposure.
Use low-emission routers: Some models are designed to minimize radiation.
Switch to wired internet (Ethernet): A complete alternative to wireless connections.
Summary
There is little scientific evidence that Wi-Fi radiation from routers is dangerous to human health. At everyday exposure levels, Wi-Fi is generally considered safe.
If you are still concerned, you can easily reduce exposure by turning off the router at night or moving it farther from your sleeping area. Research in this field is ongoing, so it remains important to follow new findings for updated information.
Sources
World Health Organization (WHO). Electromagnetic fields and public health: Electromagnetic fields. WHO Website, 2020.
Johansson O. Electromagnetic fields and health: A review of the scientific literature. Environmental Health Perspectives, 2006.
Lai H. Radiofrequency and microwave radiation: Effects on the central nervous system. Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine, 2004.
International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). Guidelines for limiting exposure to time-varying electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields (up to 300 GHz). Health Physics, 1998.
Hardell L, et al. Exposure to electromagnetic fields and risk of cancer. European Journal of Cancer Prevention, 2002.
Various sleep-related Wi-Fi exposure studies reviewed in WHO reports, 2020.
