A new study has revealed that your mattress doesn’t just affect how well rested you are but it can also have a major impact on how well you are. Old mattresses and bedding have been linked to common health problems including back ache, shortness of breath and colds. A scientific study, commissioned by bed specialist Dreams, found a range of bacteria, moulds and yeasts in samples taken from eight-year-old matresses. Via gifsec.com Speaking about the findings, University Professor and environmental hygiene expert Dr Lisa Ackerley said: “Most people would be rather surprised by the things you can find in an old mattress. “Mould spores and bacteria build up over the years and although invisible, you could be breathing in these harmful spores at night. “Due to the amount of human contact with the average mattress, it’s inevitable that microbes and unwanted guests will develop over time.” Via tumblr.com She added: “People tend to focus on cleaning the things they can see – pillows and sheets, but the mattress itself can be a ‘hot bed’ of potential illness.” Sleep deprivation caused by worn mattresses can also lead to the likes of anxiety, depression, obesity and high blood pressure. *Rushes home to throw out mattress*