Consumer News: Four reasons why mortgage rates are moving higher again

The findings highlight the long-term impacts of severe weather

• A recent study found that severe weather exposure was linked to a higher risk of death for older adults in the year following a storm.

• Additionally, older adults with chronic conditions faced the greatest increases in health and mortality risks.

• Researchers identified disparities that emerged, with higher risks observed among Black and Hispanic populations.

When a major storm hits, the immediate dangers flooding, power outages, and injuries tend to get the most attention. But new research suggests the health impacts dont stop when the storm clouds clear.

A study from the University of Michigan found that severe weather can have lasting consequences for older adults, particularly those already managing health issues.

These findings add to the evidence that disasters dont just cause short-term disruptions. They expose and magnify the underlying fragilities in our health systems, lead author Sue Anne Bell, U-M associate professor of nursing, said in a news release.

For older adults who rely on regular and consistent access to health care, even a temporary disruption to needed care can have lasting consequences.

The study

To better understand these longer-term risks, researchers conducted a retrospective cohort study using Medicare claims data from nearly 1.8 million adults aged 65 and older in Texas and Louisiana.

The team focused on individuals who experienced Hurricane Harvey in 2017, using detailed weather data to measure exposure to severe rainfall over a four-day period. They then tracked mortality outcomes for up to one year after the storm.

Researchers also examined how risk varied across different groups. They looked at older adults with chronic conditions that require ongoing care such as Alzheimers disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease as well as sociodemographic factors like age and race.

To account for other variables that might influence outcomes, the study used statistical modeling to adjust for differences between individuals and isolate the relationship between storm exposure and mortality risk.

What the researchers found

The results showed a measurable increase in risk: older adults exposed to high levels of rainfall during Hurricane Harvey had about a 3% higher chance of dying within the following year compared to those with less exposure.

However, that risk wasnt evenly distributed. People with chronic conditions that require consistent medical care saw higher increases in mortality, suggesting that disruptions like missed treatments or limited access to providers may play a role.

In fact, those with Alzheimers and related dementia had the highest risk of death (5%) in the aftermath of the storm. Those with chronic kidney disease and diabetes each represented a 4% higher risk of death.

The study also identified disparities across racial and ethnic groups. Mortality risk was higher among Black older adults and even more elevated among Hispanic and Latino populations following severe weather exposure.

Overall, the findings point to a broader takeaway: the health impacts of severe weather can extend far beyond the initial event, especially for people who depend on stable, ongoing care.

Steamers, infant toys, ovens, and more on this week's recall roundup

Aisstxoer adult bike helmet may fail

A pink Aisstxoer adult bicycle helmet sold on Amazon is being recalled because it fails key federal helmet safety requirements and may not protect riders in a crash.

• Specific hazard: The helmet does not meet mandatory impact attenuation, positional stability, and certification requirements, raising the risk of serious head injury or death.
• Scope/stats: About 200 units sold on Amazon.com from October 2025 through November 2025 for about $25.
• Immediate action: Stop using the recalled helmet immediately and request a full refund after destroying it as directed.

Shenzhenshiyongxintaidianziyouxiangongsi (Shenzhen Yongxintai Electronics Co., Ltd.), doing business as YXTDZ Store, is recalling Aisstxoer adult bicycle helmets sold in pink, size large. The recalled helmets have black padding and straps, a black buckle, and a black adjustment knob at the back; Aisstxoer and the size appear on a white label on the packaging, and model GH018L is printed inside the helmet. The helmets are being recalled because they fail to meet mandatory federal performance and certification requirements.

The hazard

According to the CPSC, the helmets violate the mandatory safety standard for bicycle helmets due to noncompliance with impact attenuation, positional stability, and certification requirements. In a crash, the helmet can fail to protect the rider, increasing the risk of serious injury or death from head injury. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled adult helmets immediately and contact YXTDZ Store for a full refund. Consumers will be asked to destroy the helmet by cutting the straps and then email a photo of the destroyed helmet to yxtdzamz@126.com.

Company contact

YXTDZ Store can be reached by email at yxtdzamz@126.com.

Source

Wagner power steamers can cause burns

Wagner 900 Series power steamers are being recalled after reports that hot hoses and expelled hot water can burn users during and after operation.

• Specific hazard: The hose can become excessively hot and the nozzle/gun can expel hot water, creating a serious burn hazard.
• Scope/stats: About 700,000 units sold in the U.S. (plus about 8,000 in Canada) from November 2018 to March 2026 for $130 to $200.
• Immediate action: Stop using the steamer and contact Wagner for a free repair kit.

Wagner Spray Tech Corp. of Plymouth, Minnesota, is recalling Wagner 900 Series power steamers, including models 905e Auto Steamer, 915e On-Demand Power Steamer, and 925e Steam Machine Elite Steamer. The units have a yellow-and-black pressurized boiler base with Wagner on the sides, an accessory storage compartment, wheels, an eight-foot black steam hose, and a trigger nozzle/gun. The recall was issued because components can overheat and hot water can be expelled unexpectedly.

The hazard

The CPSC says the attached hose can get excessively hot, and the nozzle/gun can expel hot water during use and after the trigger is engaged. Wagner reports at least 156 incidents involving overheating hoses or hot-water expulsion, including more than 50 burn injuries to arms, hands, feet, and faces, with many first- or second-degree burns.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled steamers immediately and contact Wagner for a free repair kit. The kit includes a hose sleeve, nozzle cover, and funnel.

Company contact

Consumers can contact Wagner toll-free at 800 962-6118 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email us-wagnerrecall@wagner-group.com, or visit www.wagnerspraytech.com/900-series-recall. More information is also available at www.wagnerspraytech.com by clicking Product Recalls.

Source

Goregent infant walkers can fall down steps

A small number of Goregent-branded infant walkers sold on Amazon are being recalled because they can fit through doorways and may not stop at step edges, increasing the risk of dangerous falls.

• Specific hazard: The walker can fit through a standard doorway and fail to stop at the edge of a step, creating a serious fall hazard.
• Scope/stats: About 90 units sold on Amazon.com in January 2026 for about $90.
• Immediate action: Stop using the walker and contact the seller to obtain a refund.

Dongguanshi Aokaolan Trading Co., Ltd., doing business as Goregent Official Store, is recalling Goregent-branded infant walkers sold in green with a fabric seat featuring an animal print and a rotating activity tray with toys, lights, and music. The walkers have a round base with six wheels, fold for storage, and offer three adjustable height settings; Model No: 901, SKU: GEBA030AGXP, and Date of Production: November 2025 appear on a yellow label on the base. The recall was issued because the walkers violate mandatory federal safety requirements for infant walkers.

The hazard

Under federal standards, infant walkers must be designed to address doorway and fall risks. The CPSC says these walkers can fit through a standard doorway and fail to stop at the edge of a step, raising the risk of serious injury or death from falls. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled walker immediately and contact Goregent Official Store to request a refund. If the walker is in a household with infants or young children, keep it out of reach until it is returned or otherwise removed from use.

Company contact

Goregent Official Store can be reached by email at GoregentInfantWalkersRecall@outlook.com.

Source

Frigidaire gas ranges may ignite late

Electrolux Group is recalling certain Frigidaire-brand gas ranges after reports that delayed ignition in the oven bake burner can cause burn injuries.

• Specific hazard: The ovens bake burner can experience delayed ignition, posing a burn hazard.
• Scope/stats: About 174,800 ranges sold in the U.S. (plus about 5,300 in Canada) from June 2025 through January 2026 for $630 to $2,700.
• Immediate action: Stop using the oven function and schedule a free in-home repair; cooktop burners can still be used.

Electrolux Consumer Products, Inc., of Charlotte, North Carolina, is recalling certain Frigidaire, Frigidaire Gallery, and Frigidaire Professional gas ranges within serial number range VF52200000 through VF54399999. The recall covers multiple models (including FCFG3083AS and others) with model and serial numbers printed on a nameplate in the drawer beneath the oven. The company is issuing the recall because the oven bake burner can ignite late, which can cause a sudden flare and burn risk.

The hazard

The CPSC says delayed ignition of the ovens bake burner can pose a burn hazard to users. Electrolux Group and the CPSC are aware of 62 reports of delayed ignition, including 30 reports of burn injuries.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the ovens in the recalled ranges immediately and contact Electrolux Group for a free repair. Electrolux Group will arrange professional in-home installation of a new bake burner at no cost; consumers can continue to use the cooktop burners on the range.

Company contact

Contact Electrolux Group toll-free at 866-291-7633 from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email gasovenburnerrecall@electrolux.com, or visit www.GasOvenBurnerRecall.com. More information is also available at www.frigidaire.com by clicking Recall Information.

Source

Amazon Basics folding knife may open

Amazon is recalling Amazon Basics Camping Folding Pocket Knives because the blade may not stay secured in the closed position, creating a laceration hazard.

• Specific hazard: The blades folding mechanism can fail to remain properly secured when closed, posing a cut hazard.
• Scope/stats: About 2,840 units sold on Amazon.com from August 2025 through February 2026 for about $30.
• Immediate action: Stop using the knife and request a refund through Amazons recall process.

Amazon.com Services LLC is recalling Amazon Basics Camping Folding Pocket Knives sold online at Amazon.com. The recall was initiated because the folding mechanism can fail, potentially allowing the blade to move or open unexpectedly even when it appears closed, which can lead to cuts during handling or storage.

The hazard

The CPSC warns that the blade may not remain properly secured in the closed position, creating a laceration hazard. Amazon received one report of the blade not remaining secured; no injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled folding pocket knife immediately and contact Amazon to obtain a refund. Store the knife in a secure place away from children until the refund process is completed.

Company contact

Consumers can contact Amazon toll-free at 855-215-5857 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit https://amazonfoldingkniferecall.expertinquiry.com/. More information is also available at www.Amazon.com by clicking Recalls and Product Safety Alerts at the bottom of the page.

Source

Specialized Como SL e-bikes can fall

Specialized is recalling forks on Turbo Como SL electric bicycles after a steerer tube fatigue crack could lead to fork failure and a sudden fall.

• Specific hazard: A fatigue crack can form in the fork steerer tube and progress to failure, posing a fall hazard.
• Scope/stats: About 5,720 bikes sold from March 2021 through January 2026 for $3,250 to $4,800.
• Immediate action: Stop riding immediately and schedule a free fork replacement through an Authorized Specialized Retailer.

Specialized Bicycle Components Inc., of Morgan Hill, California, is recalling bicycle forks on all Specialized Turbo Como SL electric bicycles, regardless of model. Como SL appears on the seat tube or top tube, and the bikes were sold in multiple colors; owners can also confirm their model via the Specialized app. The recall was issued because the fork steerer tube can crack over time, potentially resulting in a sudden loss of control.

The hazard

The CPSC says the fork steerer tube can develop a small fatigue crack that can lead to progressive failure of the fork, posing a fall hazard. The company has received one report of a steerer tube failing and breaking; no injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using their Specialized Turbo Como SL bicycles immediately and contact an Authorized Specialized Retailer to schedule service for a free fork replacement. Replacement parts are expected to be available in Spring 2026.

Company contact

Contact Specialized Rider Care toll-free at 877- 808-8154 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MT, Monday through Friday, email ridercare@specialized.com, use Live Chat on www.specialized.com, or visit http://www.specialized.com/safety-recall-notices.

Source

BUILT LUUM tumblers expose button batteries

Lifetime Brands is recalling light-up tumblers after reports that the cups can break and expose button cell batteries, which can be deadly if swallowed.

• Specific hazard: The tumblers can break and make button cell batteries accessible, posing choking and battery ingestion hazards.
• Scope/stats: About 75,700 units sold at major retailers and online from October 2024 through December 2025.
• Immediate action: Stop using the tumbler, keep it away from children, and obtain a refund.

Lifetime Brands, Inc. is recalling LUUM collection BUILT-branded light up tumblersplastic 16 oz. or 18 oz. cups with a lid and straw sold in various winter holiday and Fourth of July themes. The recall was announced because the tumblers can break in a way that allows children to access the button cell batteries powering the LEDs.

The hazard

The CPSC says the LED tumblers can break and make the button cell batteries accessible to children, posing choking and ingestion hazards. Swallowed button cell or coin batteries can cause severe internal chemical burns and can be fatal. Lifetime Brands reports one incident in which a child gained access to a battery and put it in the mouth; no injuries were reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled tumblers immediately and keep them out of reach of children. Contact Lifetime Brands for instructions on receiving a refund, and if a battery is found loose, handle it carefully and keep it away from children and pets.

Company contact

Contact Lifetime Brands toll-free at 888-561-2269 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, email Recall@Builtny.com, or visit https://www.builtny.com/pages/recall.

Source

Tainoki office chair base can bend

Tainoki Fine Furniture is recalling several models of upholstered swivel office chairs after the base was found to bend, raising the risk of a fall.

• Specific hazard: The chairs base can bend, causing instability and a potential fall hazard.
• Scope/stats: About 2,200 chairs sold at HomeGoods from August 2025 through December 2025 for $180 to $200.
• Immediate action: Stop using the chair and follow Tainokis recall instructions to get a full refund.

Tainoki Fine Furniture is recalling height-adjustable, swivel office chairs designed for desk use, featuring upholstered padded seats, backrests and headrests, and two padded armrests supported by chrome-finished metal bars. The recall includes Noah Office Chair (model M7016O) and Owen Office Chair (model M7004O) in specified colors, plus Warren Office Chair (model M7074O) in Taupe and Justin's. The company says the recall was initiated because the chair base can bend and compromise stability.

The hazard

The CPSC says the recalled chairs base can bend, posing a fall hazard that could result in serious injury if a user tips or collapses unexpectedly. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled chairs immediately and visit Tainokis recall website for step-by-step instructions. Consumers will be asked to submit photos of the chair, the model number, and proof of destruction to receive a full refund.

Company contact

Contact Tainoki Fine Furniture toll-free at 888-698-2466 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, email hello@tainoki.com, or visit https://www.tainoki.com/recall.

Source

CPSC warns on unsafe Gpower youth ATVs

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using Gpower youth ATVs immediately because the vehicles allegedly violate federal ATV safety requirements and can create crash and laceration hazards for children.

• Specific hazard: The ATVs can exceed speed limits for youth models, have suspension and reflector issues, and handlebars that pose a laceration hazard on impact.
• Scope/stats: Sold online at Walmart.com from August 2025 through December 2025 for about $300, and possibly via third-party sellers on other websites.
• Immediate action: Stop using the ATV immediately and do not resell or give it away.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a safety warning urging consumers to stop using Gpower youth all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) immediately. The youth ATVs have a 49cc gasoline engine and 6-inch steel rims, were sold in black, and were marketed online with the model name ATV-3-Orange, with no additional branding or labeling. The agency says the products violate mandatory federal ATV requirements and can put child riders at serious risk.

The hazard

The CPSC says the Gpower ATVs create a deadly crash hazard because they exceed maximum speed limits for youth ATVs intended for children ages six and older, fail to comply with mechanical suspension safety requirements, and are missing required reflectors that improve visibility. The agency also warns the handlebars can pose a laceration hazard if a child riders body or head impacts them at high speed.

What to do

The CPSC urges consumers to stop using these youth ATVs immediately. Do not sell or give away the ATVs, and report any incidents involving injury or product defects to the CPSC.

Company contact

Consumers can report incidents involving injury or product defects at www.SaferProducts.gov.

Source

CPSC warns Ridstar e-bike batteries can ignite

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using Ridstar Q20 and Q20 Pro e-bikes because the batteries and wiring can ignite, creating a serious fire hazard.

• Specific hazard: The e-bikes batteries and wires can ignite, posing a fire hazard with risk of serious injury or death.
• Scope/stats: Distributed via Amazon.com, Ridstar.net, and Walmart.com.
• Immediate action: Remove the battery immediately and dispose of it using local hazardous-waste procedures.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a safety warning advising consumers to immediately stop using Ridstar Q20 and Q20 Pro e-bikes. The bikes are black and have the brand name Ridstar printed on the battery. The agency says the battery and wiring can ignite, creating an urgent fire risk.

The hazard

The CPSC warns that the e-bikes batteries and wires can ignite, posing a fire hazard to consumers with risk of serious injury or death. Fires involving lithium-ion batteries can spread quickly and produce intense heat and smoke, which is why the agency recommends prompt battery removal and appropriate disposal.

What to do

The CPSC urges consumers to remove the battery from the e-bike immediately and dispose of the battery following local hazardous waste disposal procedures. Do not sell or give away these hazardous batteries.

Company contact

Consumers can report incidents to the CPSC on SaferProducts.gov or call CPSCs Hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 800-638-8270).

Source

CPSC warns infant cushion poses suffocation risk

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using LullaBear Choco Bear infant support cushions because they were marketed for infant sleep and can obstruct breathing, and the remote may allow access to a coin battery.

• Specific hazard: The cushion can obstruct an infants breathing (suffocation hazard), and the remote controls coin battery can be easily accessed (ingestion hazard).
• Scope/stats: Sold online at Livvewell.com from June 2025 through January 2026.
• Immediate action: Stop using immediately and dispose of the cushion and the battery responsibly.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a safety warning urging consumers to stop using LullaBearTM Choco Bear infant support cushions immediately. The bear-shaped cushions are light yellow with a face, ears, arms with oversized hands, and a white heart on the front; CHOCO BEAR is stitched on the cushion, and the left hand includes a motorized finger powered by a rechargeable battery controlled by a gray-and-black remote. The CPSC says the products violate mandatory regulations for infant support cushions and for products containing button cell or coin batteries.

The hazard

According to the CPSC, the animal-shaped cushions were marketed and intended for infant sleep and can obstruct an infants breathing, posing a serious risk of injury or death from suffocation. The agency also says the remote control violates federal battery safety regulations because the coin battery can be easily accessed by children, creating a severe ingestion hazard; swallowed coin batteries can cause life-threatening internal injuries.

What to do

The CPSC urges consumers to stop using the LullaBear infant support cushions immediately and dispose of them. Do not sell or give away these products. The remote controls coin battery should be disposed of or recycled following local hazardous waste procedures, and button cell and coin batteries should be kept away from children at all times.

Company contact

Consumers should report any incidents involving injury or product defects to the CPSC at www.SaferProducts.gov.

Source

Mama Grande sweets may contain undeclared allergens

Mama Grande Tortilla Factory issued an allergy alert for Gorditas de Azucar and Doraditas de Azucar because the products may contain undeclared wheat and soy.

• Specific hazard: Undeclared wheat and soy can trigger serious or life-threatening allergic reactions in sensitive consumers.
• Scope/stats: Distributed to retail stores and wholesale customers in Texas; the alert applies to all expiration dates for the listed UPCs.
• Immediate action: Do not eat the products if you have wheat or soy allergies; return them for a refund/credit or discard them.

Mama Grande Tortilla Factory is warning consumers about Gorditas de Azucar and Doraditas de Azucar distributed in Texas because the products contain undeclared wheat and soy. The affected items are identified as Gorditas de Azucar (UPC 860010238134) and Doraditas de Azucar (UPC 5901234123457), with all expiration dates included. The issue is especially serious for people with allergies or severe sensitivities to wheat or soy.

The hazard

Undeclared wheat and soy in a packaged food can cause serious or life-threatening allergic reactions for people who are allergic or highly sensitive. Consumers who rely on ingredient labels may unknowingly eat the product and experience symptoms that can escalate quickly and require emergency treatment.

What to do

Consumers who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to wheat or soy should not consume the affected products. The company says consumers may return the product to the place of purchase for a credit or refund, or discard the product.

Company contact

Consumers can contact Agustin Armendaiz at 956-905-8234, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. CST.

Source

Honey products recalled for hidden erectile drugs

Pure Vitamins and Natural Supplements is recalling certain honey products after testing found undeclared sildenafil and tadalafil, which can dangerously interact with some prescription medications.

• Specific hazard: Undeclared sildenafil and tadalafil may interact with nitrates and drop blood pressure to dangerous levels.
• Scope/stats: Nationwide distribution; affected products include Boner Bear Honey, Red Bull Extreme, and Blue Bull Extreme with specified lot and code information.
• Immediate action: Stop using the products and return them for a full refund, including shipping, or discard them.

Pure Vitamins and Natural Supplements, LLC announced a voluntary nationwide recall of Boner Bear Honey, Red Bull Extreme, and Blue Bull Extreme. The company says the products contain undeclared sildenafil and tadalafil, which are active ingredients found in FDA-approved prescription drugs. The recall is aimed at preventing potentially dangerous drug interactions among consumers who may not realize they are ingesting these substances.

The hazard

The FDA notice warns that undeclared sildenafil and tadalafil may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs, such as nitroglycerin, and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. Consumers with diabetes, high blood pressure

Plus tips on how to save even more money

• Michaels is lowering prices to keep cautious shoppers coming in, as inflation and higher gas prices make consumers more selective with their spending.

• Theyre also trying to grab market share fast now that Party City and Joann Fabricshave largely faded from the scene.

• Shoppers can save even more by stacking Michaels coupons on top of these newly lowered prices.

Michaels is cutting prices on more than 3,000 items, continuing a broader push to win over shoppers who are increasingly focused on value.

On the surface, it looks like a win for consumers. And it is. But the bigger story is why this is happening now. Understand that and youll see where the real money-saving opportunities come in.

What products will have lower prices?

Michaels is lowering the price on basic arts and crafts stuff, The Party Shop, The Knit & Sew Shop, DIY, and home dcor products.

The average price reduction is around 10% off the original price. Not a huge reduction, but in an economy where prices only seem to be trending upward, it serves as a nice price break for shoppers.

Shoppers are pulling back (even higher-income ones)

Consumers across the board are getting more cautious. Rising gas prices and ongoing inflation are forcing households to rethink spending, especially on non-essentials like crafts, dcor, and party supplies.

Even wealthier shoppers are buying less, trading down, and hunting for deals.

The bottom line is that Michaels is lowering prices to stay relevant in a more budget-conscious environment.

Theyre trying to grab market share (fast)

With Party City closing most stores, and Joann Fabrics disappearing, Michaels sees a huge opportunity to take major market share.

Fewer competitors mean:

• More potential customers.
• More demand for party supplies and crafting.
• A chance to become the default store in this category.

Lower prices are a strategic move to pull those shoppers in now before they settle into other shopping habits (like Hobby Lobby, Walmart, or Amazon).

How shoppers can take advantage

In addition to these new price drops, there are four other ways shoppers can take full advantage of Michaels' offerings.

1.Target everyday essentials first.

The best deals are on items Michaels wants to reposition as value buys.

Think of the following products:

• Paint and craft supplies
• Home dcor
• Party goods

These items are now priced closer to competitors, making Michaels a more viable option.

2. Stack coupons on top of new lower prices.

Even with price cuts, Michaels still pushes their coupons hard.

That means you can:

• Combine lower base prices + 20% off coupons.
• Use 30%50% off single-item deals.

Your best bet to find their coupons is via their app and website. As of this writing, their website is pushing a coupon for 30% off any one regular-priced item, valid both online and in-store.

3. Be strategic with timing.

Keep in mind that these 3,000 price cuts dont replace their seasonal clearance cycles. But they absolutely do stack on top of them.

So, if you can, wait for a clearance sale (5080% off), then apply a coupon if allowed. Thats where your peak savings happen.

4. Use Michaels for what it does best.

Even without these new lower prices, Michaels shines in these categories:

• Unique craft items
• Specialty dcor
• Party customization

I think its smart to skip the basic items you can get cheaper at Walmart, and instead focus on items where Michaels has better selection and quality.

New survey finds sleep hacks and data obsession can sometimes backfire

• A recent survey found that nearly half of U.S. adults have used a sleep tracker, and many are changing their habits based on the data.

• The rise of sleepmaxxing is pushing people to optimize sleep with routines, products, and tech.

• However, the findings emphasize that worrying too much about sleep may actually be causing people to lose it.

If it feels like everyone is suddenly talking about sleep tracking it, improving it, even optimizing it youre not imagining it.

A new survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) shows that sleep has become a major focus for many Americans, fueled by wearable devices, apps, and social media trends.

According to the survey, 48% of adults have used a sleep tracking tool, like a smartwatch or mobile app, to monitor how well they rest each night. Thats a notable jump from 35% just a couple of years ago.

This growing interest has helped spark a trend known as sleepmaxxing, where people experiment with different strategies from strict bedtime routines to new products in an effort to get the best sleep possible. And for many, its not just curiosity: more than half of those who track their sleep say theyve changed their behavior based on what theyve learned.

Were seeing a significant shift in how Americans approach sleep health, and its encouraging that so many people are investing time and energy into understanding their sleep habits, AASM spokesperson and member of the Emerging Technology Committee, Dr. Shalini Paruthi, said in a news release.

Sleep trackers help people recognize that adequate duration of sleep and quality sleep are just as important as nutrition and exercise for overall health.

The survey

The findings come from an online survey commissioned by the AASM and conducted by Atomik Research. The survey included 2,007 adults across the United States and was carried out over several days in June 2025.

Researchers designed the survey to better understand how Americans are using sleep technology, how its influencing their habits, and whether its shaping attitudes toward sleep overall. The results have a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points, with a 95% confidence level meaning the findings offer a reliable snapshot of broader trends.

The survey also explored differences among groups, including how men and women engage with sleep tracking and related products, as well as how much people are spending on sleep-focused tools.

When tracking sleep starts to hurt sleep

While the data shows that many people are becoming more engaged with their sleep health, it also points to a potential downside.

The survey found that 76% of adults have lost sleep due to worries about sleep problems a phenomenon sometimes referred to as sleep anxiety or orthosomnia.

In other words, the very tools and habits designed to improve sleep may, in some cases, be doing the opposite. Constantly checking sleep scores, chasing perfect metrics, or feeling pressure to follow the latest advice can create stress that makes it harder to relax at bedtime.

That doesnt mean sleep tracking is inherently bad. But the survey suggests theres a balance to strike: paying attention to sleep can be helpful as long as it doesnt turn into something that keeps you awake.

Sleep trackers can be valuable tools for raising awareness about sleep health and motivating positive changes in sleep habits, said Dr. Paruthi. However, its important that tracking enhances sleep and doesnt cause more stress about it. If you find yourself lying awake worrying about your sleep duration or quality, it may be time to step back and consult with a health care professional about your concerns.

Recommendations for tracking sleep

If you want to have a healthy relationship with tracking sleep and sleep better overall the AASM shared its top tips:

• You want to establish an accurate baseline, so wear your sleep tracker consistently.

• Not all metrics are important! Pay particular attention to sleep duration, consistent bedtime and wake times, and awakenings in the night.

• Dont change everything at once. Tweak one thing in your routine to see what works.

• Be mindful about checking data. The AASM recommends not obsessing over the results and only checking in the morning never at night.