Mark your calendar
Get ready to “fall back” a little earlier than usual this year. Daylight Saving Time (DST) ends on Sunday, November 2, 2025, one of the earliest dates it can happen. At 2:00 a.m., clocks roll back one hour. Most people just set their clocks before bed on Saturday night, November 1.
The good news? You’ll get an extra hour of sleep. The not-so-good news? Your body may not adjust as quickly as your wall clock.
Don’t forget the clocks
Your phone, tablet, or smartwatch will change the time automatically. But old-school clocks, microwaves, ovens, and even some car dashboards won’t. Before going to bed, do a quick check so you don’t wake up late (or way too early).
The hidden effects on your body
An extra hour in bed sounds dreamy, but the shift can mess with your rhythm. Mornings may feel brighter, but evenings will get darker much sooner. That means your after-work jog, walk, or errands might now be in the dark.
This sudden change can cause:
- Sleepiness and brain fog
- Mood swings or the “blues”
- Tired kids struggling with new routines
Some people may even feel seasonal affective disorder (SAD) kicking in as days get shorter. While the fall time change is easier than spring’s “spring forward,” it can still throw off your energy and focus.
Easy tips for a smooth transition
You don’t have to let the clock change ruin your week. Try these tricks to help your body adjust:
- Shift bedtime slowly: Go to bed 15–20 minutes earlier a few days before the switch.
- Stick to a schedule: Wake up at the same time every day—even on weekends.
- Use morning light: Step outside when you wake up to tell your brain it’s time to be alert.
- Dim the lights at night: This signals your body to get sleepy.
- Skip late caffeine: That late-night soda or coffee could keep you tossing and turning.
- Take a power nap: A short 20-minute nap helps but don’t overdo it.
Daily movement and sunshine are the best combo to keep your body clock steady and your mood lifted.
Safety first
The darker evenings aren’t just an inconvenience—they can also be risky. With less daylight, there’s reduced visibility for drivers, bikers, and pedestrians. If you walk, bike, or jog, wear reflective gear and plan outings earlier in the day.
The time change is also the perfect reminder to do a home safety check:
- Change batteries in smoke alarms.
- Test carbon monoxide detectors.
- Check flashlights in case of emergencies.
Fire experts say non-working alarms are one of the leading causes of fire deaths, so this small task could save lives.
Not everyone changes the clock
Here’s a fun fact: Arizona (except the Navajo Nation) and Hawaii don’t observe Daylight Saving Time at all. U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and Guam skip it too.
There’s also been debate about whether DST should stick around permanently. In 2022, the Senate passed the Sunshine Protection Act, which aimed to make it year-round. But it never became law. Some experts argue permanent DST could affect health by limiting morning light exposure.
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Quick prep checklist
Before bed on November 1, make sure you’re ready.
- Set clocks back 1 hour
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Adjust bedtime a few days ahead
- Get morning sunlight
- Limit screen time before bed
FAQs
When does Daylight Saving Time end?
On Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 2:00 a.m.
Do all states change their clocks?
No, Arizona and Hawaii don’t.
Does the time change affect sleep?
Yes, even though we gain an hour, it can still disrupt sleep and mood.
Should I change smoke alarm batteries now?
Yes—it’s one of the best safety habits during time changes.
How can I adjust easier?
Start shifting your bedtime early and soak in some morning sunlight.
