Britons could be risking back problems by not testing their mattresses before they buy them according to the latest findings from Relaxsan, the 'no-springs!' mattress company.

Chartered physiotherapists recommend lying on a mattress for at least 20 minutes before making the decision to purchase. However 20 per cent of Britons claim to buy a mattress without testing it. This number rises to a quarter (25%) of people in Scotland.

Robert Badman, UK Head of Sales, Relaxsan, said: "In 15 years you're likely to spend around 43,000 hours on you mattress, so we believe taking 20 minutes to choose the one that's right for you is essential. Buying a new mattress is not a decision to be taken lightly; the wrong mattress could lead to years of sleepless nights and back pain."

Despite almost one in five (19%) Britons complaining that an uncomfortable mattress has caused them sleepless nights, the average Briton spends just four minutes and 48 seconds lying on a mattress before purchasing it. Those in their twenties spend the least time - just four minutes and 36 seconds. Thirty-somethings spend the most time, four minutes and 56 seconds, but this is still only a quarter of the recommended time to decide on the comfort of the mattress.

Recent research by Relaxsan shows that three in five Britons suffers from back ache. The right mattress can significantly contribute to relieving this pain. It is not just those who suffer from bad backs who need to ensure their beds are up to scratch; having a comfortable, supportive bed is something everyone needs to help prevent future back problems.

Relaxsan asked a GB representative sample of 2,000 adults whether they lay on a mattress to test the comfort before they bought it, and if they did, how long they lay on it for.

Time spent lying on mattress

South - 5 minutes
Midlands & Wales - 5 minutes
London - 4.7 minutes
North - 4.6 minutes
Scotland - 4.4 minutes
UK Average - 4.8 minutes

*Source: PKF Hotel Consultancy Services, January 2006