If there is one lovely thing about laptops, then it’s their portability impact. They can be used anywhere, anytime, even in bed, as long as there’s a power source nearby.
However, most people using laptops in bed would complain of strains on their upper or lower backs, stiff necks, and tension headaches, among other common computer-related injuries.
Ways of Effectively Using Your Laptop in Bed
In most cases, these problems would result from sitting for long periods in a bad posture or sleeping with laptops in the wrong positions, resulting in overheating. For these reasons, any person with a laptop should know how to use laptops in bed.
Select an Ergonomic Laptop
People have different tastes when it comes to choosing laptops. However, the goal should be to have one that doesn’t endanger your health. In this case, comfort, efficiency, and convenience should be a priority.
How do you identify an ergonomic laptop? Simple, check on the flexibility, portability, and adaptability traits of the laptop. For working on the bed, flexible laptops would be easy to maneuver to an angle of your preference. The portability is about the ease of carrying or moving the laptop around the bed; you should have a lightweight laptop that you can drag and use in any corner of your bed.
Also, choosing an adaptable laptop that favors different settings, including work or home environment, would be a plus to your efficiency and convenience, especially when you are in your bed.
Use a Pillow
There are various reasons for using laptops in bed. But whatever the reason, the goal of every person should be to feel relaxed and comfortable regardless of where they are using the laptop. Since some beds may not have a backrest, pillows would provide the best alternative support for your back. Therefore, arm yourself with a pillow or pillows when you plan to use your laptop on the bed.
Position the Pillow the Way that Works for You
In line with the goal of your comfort, you should ensure you strategically position your pillow in a way that supports your back. This is essential for your back and spine health. Here are some steps you can follow:
- Get close to the headrest of the bed/wall to use it as back support.
- Place a pillow behind your lower back. You can use several pads for additional support and comfort.
- Use another pillow under your knees to prevent you from bending sideways.
Consider Suitable Types of Pillows
You can choose different types of pillows for adequate support of your back or lumbar and knee support. Pillows would help you maintain a good posture and proper blood circulation, as well as help to prevent muscle and joint fatigue.
Also, of the many pillows, consider foam pillows for the following reasons: they are durable, exist in varied shapes, and ensures adequate pain relief. They would also contour to your neck, head, and spine.
Have Adequate Lighting
A bedroom is a house section primarily set to allow people to sleep or rest. A typical feature of a bedroom is the low or dim lighting system that allows the user to sleep without disruption from sharp glows. When working in the bedroom, poor lighting will lead to eye strain.
How can you prevent the eyes from straining? Follow these guidelines to avoid straining the eyes while using a laptop in bed:
- Do not face windows that allow direct sunlight.
- Ensure that other light sources do not reflect on the laptop’s screen.
- Ensure sources of bright lights are not directed at your position.
- Avoid very dark rooms while allowing appropriate light.
Sufficient light in the bedroom is essential for the use of a laptop in bed. Following the points discussed above will make using the laptop in bed a breeze.
Adjust Your Bed Lamps
Suppose you want to use a laptop in bed at night and you have a partner who has trouble sleeping with lights on. In that case, having a bed lamp is essential. Instead of switching off the whole lighting system, a bed lamp makes a better alternative to ensure adequate screen and keyboard visibility.
Use Window Blinders to Control Light
Proper lighting is essential when using a laptop to prevent the eyes from straining. However, this lighting needs to be controlled. Using window blinds at home will ensure:
- Protection from the damages caused by constant exposure to sun rays such as overheating.
- Privacy and security of your information from intrusive parties.
- You save energy. Window blinders save on energy costs as they prevent excess light and heat from getting into your bedroom, allowing you to avoid using air conditioners.
Get a Laptop Stand or Desk
Various equipment like laptop stands and desks could ease your posture, and make it more comfortable when using a laptop in bed. Before purchasing, always check if it’s one that you’d be comfortable using on the bed.
Even though it was initially intended to be positioned on your lap as a portable computer, it must not be placed on your lap. Putting them on your laps can pose some side effects like the development of slouched posture with the head projected towards the screen. As it slowly increases to high heat, it can also burn your skin, even through your clothes.
Also, using a laptop without placing it on the thighs might tempt you to use pillows or blankets to support it to a usable level. However, this is not advisable since blankets and pillows are good heat insulators, and can lead to overheating.
A laptop desk or stand would allow proper ventilation and prevent it from crashing. Here are more benefits of using a laptop stand or desk:
- Laptop stands are adjustable to a preferred position.
- They can be placed above the legs for ease of stretching.
- They are mostly lightweight and portable for ease of storage when not in use.
- They promote better posture.
Get a Separate Keyboard and Mouse
While it has its advantages, a built-in keyboard and trackpad would present many challenges. For instance, they may prevent you from attaining the proper position. Therefore, ensure you get an external mouse or keyboard to aid in your preferred posture.
Finally, when you decide to use a laptop in bed, ensure you set the right environment for it. Have a laptop desk or stand, use suitable pillows, and set adequate lighting. These simple steps would help prevent straining the eye and developing bad postures.
Ensure other standard uses of laptops are followed, such as avoid placing them on materials like blankets that lead to overheating. Focus on your health, too. Do not sit with your legs crossed with the laptop in front, and always get up and stretch to avoid slouched back. For more helpful computer tips, follow this blog!
