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Bacterial and Mold Levels: Swab tests showed high bacteria and mold counts in older mattresses and pillows. For instance, an old pillow contained over 64 million bacterial colonies per swab, and mold spores were abundantly present in some mattresses. These microorganisms can trigger allergic reactions, asthma, and other chronic respiratory conditions.
Mold and Allergens: Different mold types, such as Alternaria and Aspergillus, can cause allergic rhinitis, asthma, and even fungal infections. The presence of these molds correlates with ongoing allergic symptoms in sensitive individuals.
The Critical Role of Bedding Maintenance
Given these findings, daily hygiene practices are vital: