2986 – Reciting Modah Ani Immediately Upon Waking, Before Netilas Yadayim – אמירת מודה אני מיד עם ההתעוררות, לפני נטילת ידיים

The Rebbe explains that Modah Ani should be recited immediately upon awakening, even before netilas yadayim, as indicated by the Alter Rebbe's Siddur and other sources. Some authorities suggest it is preferable after netilas yadayim, but the main opinion permits it beforehand. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/010/001/2986