Home tests for mold are an effective tool to quickly find out about any problems with the indoor climate. To ensure a reliable result, it is important to avoid the most common mistakes during sampling. Here we review the typical mistakes and give concrete advice on how to achieve the best result.
1. Sampling in the wrong places
Many people choose to take samples in rooms where mold is not suspected, or where they have just been thoroughly cleaned. This can lead to a false negative result.
How to avoid the error:
Take the sample where you experience discolouration, smell or moisture - for example behind furniture, in basements, by windows or in bathrooms.
How to avoid the error:
Take the sample where you experience discolouration, smell or moisture - for example behind furniture, in basements, by windows or in bathrooms.
2. Failure to use gloves and correct equipment
Touching sampling equipment without gloves can contaminate the sample and affect the result.
How to avoid the error:
Always use the supplied gloves and follow the instructions carefully.
How to avoid the error:
Always use the supplied gloves and follow the instructions carefully.
3. Samples taken on recently cleaned surfaces
If the surface has just been cleaned, it can remove traces of mold and lead to a false negative result.
How to avoid the error:
Wait at least 24 hours after cleaning before taking the sample.
How to avoid the error:
Wait at least 24 hours after cleaning before taking the sample.
4. Inadequate labeling of samples
If the samples are not labeled correctly with place, date and any comments, this can give uncertain analysis results.
How to avoid the error:
Label all samples carefully before sending them to the laboratory.
How to avoid the error:
Label all samples carefully before sending them to the laboratory.
5. Improper storage and shipping
Samples that are stored hot or humid, or that are not shipped quickly enough, can be destroyed.
How to avoid the error:
Keep the samples cool and dry and send them to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection.
How to avoid the error:
Keep the samples cool and dry and send them to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection.
Proper use of home tests
By following the instructions in the test kit and avoiding the above errors, you ensure that the analysis result will be as accurate and useful as possible. If you have questions, MiljøLab ApS offers guidance both before and after sampling.
Contact and support
If you need help with sampling or interpretation of results, you can contact MiljøLab ApS on phone +45 35 95 75 79 or e-mail kontakt@miljoelab.dk.
