2 Minute Timer
A 2-minute countdown, ready when you are.
Set. Start. Take a breath.
Extra time applies to this session only.
Pause and reset to change the start time.
Sound & display Make it work for you
Press Test sound to check your volume before starting.
Keep this page open. Sound may be delayed or unavailable if your device locks or your browser suspends the page.
Press Start to begin.
Key takeaways
- The NHS advises brushing your teeth for about two minutes, twice a day.
- The "two-minute rule" from Getting Things Done: if a task takes less than two minutes, do it now.
- Two minutes is a good length for pair talk or a quick brain break in class.
- The countdown waits at 02:00 until you press Start.
How long should you brush your teeth?
The NHS recommends brushing twice a day for about two minutes each time: last thing before bed and on one other occasion (NHS: How to keep your teeth clean). Two minutes can feel long to a child. A countdown on a tablet in the bathroom shows exactly when they are done, and the bar turning from green to red makes it easy to follow without reading numbers.
A simple split many families use:
- Top teeth, outside and inside.
- Bottom teeth, outside and inside.
- Stop when the sound plays.
What is the two-minute rule?
The two-minute rule comes from David Allen's productivity method Getting Things Done: if an action will take less than two minutes, do it straight away instead of adding it to a list. A timer keeps you honest. Start it, answer the message or file the paper, and if the sound plays before you finish, the task belongs on your list after all.
How can teachers use two minutes?
Two minutes works well for "turn and talk": each partner speaks for one minute and switches when you call time halfway. It also fits a stretch break between two lessons or a silent re-read of the question before writing.
A rhythm for your focus ↗
Focus sessions, short breaks and a longer pause. Make the intervals your own.
Open Pomodoro timerTIME EVERYONE CAN SEEKeep the room on track ↗
A clear classroom countdown with an activity label and a quiet finish if you prefer.
Open classroom timerA timer for the time you have.
Pick a preset below. Need to count up instead? Our sister site Online Stopwatch times laps and split times in your browser, free and without an account.
Brushing for two minutes? This page is made for it. For three minutes, open the 3 minute timer.
Countdowns
More timers and countdowns
FAQ
Does the timer start by itself?
No. It shows 02:00 and starts only when you press Start.
Can I make it quieter in the evening?
Choose Soft chime and lower the volume slider, then press Test sound.
Can I add time if we need it?
Yes, +1 min adds one minute to the current countdown.