This story is part Tips for the houseCNET’s collection of handy tips for getting the most out of your home, inside and out.
Your Amazon Echo speaker is a useful tool to have around the house – it can help you set up your music streaming service and can also help you update your Alexa Settings without opening the Alexa app. However, your device does not tell you the best and safest area of your home to place your smart speakers and smart screens. You’re probably wondering, “Does it really matter where I put it as long as I can give an Alexa command most rooms in my house?” The answer is yes.
Placing your Alexa device in certain areas of your home could risk your privacy or even damage your echo. For example, did you know that intruders can access your smart home device from the outside if it is placed too close to a window?
Keep reading to find out where you shouldn’t put your Echo devices and the best places for them. For more Amazon Echo tips, check out these five useful functions you should try today.
Read more: Best smart home devices of 2022
1. Don’t put Alexa near the toilet
Placing an Echo near your toilet is disgusting. Think of all the germs that linger in that area, even in super clean bathrooms. However, if you must have an Echo device in your bathroom (and, OK, we see the appeal), try to place it as far away from the toilet as possible.
Whether you can, mount it on a wall with sticky tape or a nail. Just make sure it’s secure so it doesn’t fall out, and don’t forget to place it near a power outlet so you can plug it in. Also keep it away from the tub (duh!). You wouldn’t want to fry your Echo.
Don’t even think about putting your Echo near the bathtub!
Chris Monroe/CNET
2. Don’t put Alexa near a sink
If you’re trying to drown out the sounds of Alexa’s voice, then by all means, place your pricey Echo near a sink. However, if you want to keep it intact, never place it near water.
You don’t want to risk your kitchen water sprayer going haywire and soaking your Echo device, or a tall device toppling over in the sink. Instead, place it on a different counter, like a kitchen island, or store it in a corner where it’s further away from spaghetti sauce splatters and water jets. It will stay cleaner and maybe sound better too.
3. Don’t place Alexa near a window
Keep your Echo away from all windows in your home. The location could potentially give anyone outside access to your Echo, and it could give access to your other smart home devices. For example, if your car is connected to your smart speaker, someone may be able to unlock and start.
If your Echo is near a window, move it.
Tyler Lizenby/CNET
4. Don’t Put Alexa Under Your TV
How many ads are there that say “Alexa, play…” and activate your echo? Or if the TV says something a lot like “Alexa,” try guessing what will activate.
Not only does this pause the show you are watching, but it also starts recording what is said after the command. So if you’re having a private conversation and Alexa kicks in, you’re risk your privacy. Placing it on a side table makes more sense and is more likely to keep the voice assistant quiet until you place an order.
So where should you place your Amazon Echo?
- In the corner of your living room (away from windows)
- A place where it’s easily visible to you, so you can see when the light ring comes on
- On your nightstand
- At the edge of your kitchen counter — far, far away from your sink
- On a coat or shelf
- Mounted on a wall that does not face a window
You can also read our story on the four best uses for your Amazon Echo device in every room of your home to help you decide where to place your Echo.
Ready for more tips on what to do with your Amazon Echo? Check out these surprising things you didn’t know your Amazon Echo could do and six things you haven’t tried with your Amazon Echo yet.