The Best Time to Check Blood Pressure at Home
When to measure in the morning and evening, how many readings to take, and what to record for your clinician.
When to measure in the morning and evening
Japanese guidance calls for a morning reading within one hour of waking, after using the bathroom and before breakfast or morning medication. Take the evening readings before bed. Sit quietly for one to two minutes first and record both readings at each session. (Japan Hypertension Association) (Review of the Japanese 2025 hypertension guideline)
Choosing a monitor and setting up
Use a validated automatic upper-arm monitor with a cuff that fits your arm. (American Heart Association home monitoring guide)
Sit with your back supported, your feet flat, and your legs uncrossed. Wrap the cuff around your bare upper arm and rest your arm on a table so the middle of the cuff is at heart level. Keep quiet before and during the measurement. (American Heart Association home monitoring guide)
What to include in your log
Record the date, time, and both the systolic and diastolic values. If your readings differ at home and in the clinic, bring the log so your clinician can interpret them together. Discuss medication changes with your clinician. (Japan Hypertension Association) (American Heart Association home monitoring guide)
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Frequently asked questions
How many readings should I take each time?
Japanese guidance calls for two readings in the morning and two in the evening, with both readings recorded each time. (Japan Hypertension Association)
Can I use a smartwatch instead of a cuff?
Use a validated upper-arm cuff monitor for routine home measurements you plan to share with your clinician. (American Heart Association home monitoring guide)