Sleep Calculator

Find a bedtime or wake-up time that lines up with 90-minute sleep cycles.

How this sleep calculator works

Sleep happens in cycles that last roughly 90 minutes. Many people feel less groggy when they wake up at the end of a cycle instead of in the middle of one. This calculator counts back (or forward) in 90-minute cycles and adds the time it usually takes you to fall asleep.

Cycle length varies from person to person and night to night, so treat these times as a guide. If you wake up tired, try moving your bedtime 15 minutes earlier or later.

How much sleep do adults need?

Health guidelines generally recommend that adults get at least 7 hours of sleep a night. Five or six 90-minute cycles (7½ or 9 hours) fit that well.

Frequently asked questions

What time should I go to bed to wake up at 6 AM?

For 5 sleep cycles (7½ hours) plus 15 minutes to fall asleep, go to bed at 10:15 PM. For 6 cycles (9 hours), go to bed at 8:45 PM.

How long is a sleep cycle?

A sleep cycle is roughly 90 minutes on average, though it varies between people and through the night.

Is 6 hours of sleep enough?

Most adults are advised to get at least 7 hours of sleep a night. Six hours is less than that, even though it equals four full cycles.

Why do I feel tired after a full night's sleep?

Waking in the middle of a deep sleep cycle can leave you groggy. Shifting your alarm by 15 to 30 minutes may help. If you are often tired, talk to a doctor.

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