Did knocker-uppers have any competition from other wake-up methods?

Yes, knocker-uppers did have competition from other wake-up methods. Some people used alarm clocks, while others relied on the natural sounds of roosters or the chiming of church bells. In larger cities, there were also public clock towers that would ring every hour, serving as a wake-up call for many people. However, in smaller towns and rural areas, knocker-uppers were often the only option for a reliable wake-up service.