Best morning routine revealed – but one debate still divides the nation

A national debate over the ideal morning routine has reached a surprising stalemate, with Britons divided over whether to brush their teeth before or after breakfast. According to a recent poll conducted by Holiday Inn Express by IHG Hotels & Resorts, the majority of respondents—45%, brush before eating, while an equal number choose to wait until after their meal. This disagreement persists despite the overwhelming consensus that maintaining a consistent morning schedule is essential. The survey, which interviewed 2,000 adults, revealed that eight in 10 Britons adhere to a daily morning ritual. However, the specifics of these routines differ significantly. Over 40% of participants prefer to shower in the morning, whereas fewer than a quarter opt for a nighttime rinse. The remaining individuals either have no clear preference or engage in both practices. Similarly, nearly half of those surveyed check their phones within five minutes of waking, with only 3% claiming to avoid digital devices entirely. Another notable finding was the widespread belief that bedtime habits play a crucial role in determining how well someone feels in the morning. Almost two-thirds of respondents stated that their sleeping patterns directly influence their daytime energy levels. Additionally, 49% admitted to having difficulty falling asleep unless they were positioned on their preferred side of the bed. Comfortable bedding and a conducive sleep environment were highlighted as key factors in achieving restful nights. Participants also shared insights into their personal preferences regarding morning activities. While 36% favored coffee as their morning beverage, 32% opted for tea. The survey further indicated that many individuals prioritize immediate access to technology upon waking, underscoring the deep integration of smartphones into modern morning routines. The poll was initiated by comedian Rob Beckett, who collaborated with Holiday Inn Express to launch The Great Wake-Up Debate. Beckett noted that discussions around morning habits often spark intense conversations, comparing the level of contention to debates over other seemingly trivial matters. He observed that even minor choices such as whether to drink tea or coffee could lead to heated exchanges among friends and colleagues. Beckett also emphasized the contrast between early risers and those who require additional time to fully awaken. He described the former group as "annoyingly cheerful," often engaging in conversation before 7 a.m., while the latter tend to seek solitude before feeling truly alert. His comments reflect a broader cultural observation about the diversity of morning behaviors across the UK. In addition to highlighting individual differences, the survey underscored the significance of comfort in both sleep and morning environments. Nearly half of the respondents slept with just one pillow, while 43% preferred a more elaborate setup involving three pillows. Other common elements included a cool bedroom temperature, peace and quiet, and blackout curtains to enhance sleep quality. John Wright, VP Mainstream Brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts, commented on the findings, stating that the results demonstrate the variety of morning rituals people follow. He noted that while individual preferences vary, there is a shared desire to start each day feeling refreshed and energized. To meet this demand, IHG focuses on providing amenities such as comfortable beds, adjustable pillow options, blackout curtains, and complimentary breakfast services. The survey also revealed that a substantial portion of respondents—32%, considered breakfast to be the highlight of a hotel stay. Furthermore, 20% expressed that they would book a hotel room without hesitation if they knew it featured a comfortable bed. These findings suggest that hospitality providers must balance the need for personalized experiences with the universal appeal of restful sleep and satisfying morning meals.