The Battle of Indicator Lights: How Bright LEDs Are Ruining Sleep for Many Homes

Thousands of years of human evolution have been linked to the natural darkness of nightfall signaling the time for sleep. However, in modern times, the invasion of bright indicator lights on household electronics is disrupting this natural rhythm.

From surge protectors to headphones, these pesky indicator lights illuminate rooms at night, making it increasingly difficult for many to achieve a good night’s sleep. Neuroscientists like Steven Lockley warn that exposure to artificial light at night is an unnatural disruption to quality sleep.

For Kyle Moschen in Seattle, the glow of lights from multiple devices in his studio apartment resembled a starry sky, but instead of beauty, it caused irritation. Moschen resorted to using electrical tape to cover these lights, a common strategy used by many.

Amazon offers various blackout stickers to dim these lights, catering to individuals like Jonathan King in New York, who find it hard to sleep with even the slightest glow of indicator lights from devices like headphones.

Each indicator light serves a specific purpose, reflecting the device’s status, such as charging or functioning. Blue LED lights, commonly used in indicators, are particularly disruptive to sleep and were a significant innovation recognized with a Nobel Prize for their creators.

While some indicator lights add to the design and user experience of devices, others are omitted due to simplicity or cost. Manufacturers like Legrand use them purposefully for function, safety, and aesthetics, aiming to enhance the user experience.