The placement of your Wi-Fi router in your home is really important
WiFi routers should be moved away from several items in your home, experts have warned (Image: Getty Images)
Households who have a WiFi router at home are being urged to move it away from beds and mirrors.
There are several items commonly found in UK homes that could slow down the speed of your internet if they are too close to the router, according to experts.
Moving your WiFi router away from certain items and areas could instantly improve your connection.
Different materials surrounding your router can absorb or disrupt the WiFi signal, which can cause issues with streaming, making calls or working remotely.
One such material is metal, including steel, which is found in many household appliances, devices and fixtures.
Experts have suggested moving your router away from such items to get a better Wi-Fi signal, reports the Express.
Household items that you should move your router away from include:
Metal bed framesMirrors with metal or steel built into themFridges and microwavesMetal and steel fixtures such as oven units, metal beams and lighting fixturesMetal cabinets and shelvesMetal doors and frames
According to the experts at Signal Boosters, metal is one of the “worst offenders” for blocking Wi-Fi signal as it reflects electromagnetic waves that your Wi-Fi router emits.
The metal can block Wi-Fi signals which results in slower and less reliable internet.
If your WiFi is next to a metal bed frame it could be affecting your signal strength (Image: Luis Alvarez via Getty Images)
For the best results, the experts suggest distancing your Wi-Fi router from these metal objects as much as possible.
Many homes also have metal laths within the walls, which can also interfere with the Wi-Fi signal, so it is best to keep your router away from any thick walls.
Other materials that might be impacting your internet speed include thick concrete and ceramic tiles.
Additionally, devices such as microwaves, smart speakers and baby monitors can absorb Wi-Fi signal as they use the same radio waves.
The best location for your Wi-Fi router is as central in the room as possible, raised off the floor and distanced from thick walls, particularly corners.