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Mould Test Kit

£33.00

Our Mould Test Kit has been developed to evaluate the relative concentration of mould spores in a specific location (e.g. bedroom, classroom, and/or office) in comparison to the natural environment background.

This test is for home evaluation only. Please see Mould Test Kit plus for laboratory analysis.
 
  • Easy to use with straightforward instructions.
  • Reliable and objective assessment of indoor air quality.
  • Each test kit contains 4 plates.
  • Provides you with relative numbers of mould spores in your home in comparison to the natural background.
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Our do-it-yourself kit does not require specialist training, just follow the simple instructions.

Results available in 5-10 days.
How it works

Our Mould Test Kit has been developed to evaluate the relative concentration of mould spores in a specific location (e.g. bedroom, classroom, and/or office) in comparison the natural environment background.

Our do-it-yourself kit does not require specialist training to use, you just follow the instructions after a short period of sampling, cultivate the samples in a warm environment to see the results.

Step One:
Read the instructions and place the first monitor in an outside location.

Step Two:
Place the other monitors in the affected indoor areas.

Step Three:
Open the monitors and sample for the equal amount of time (30 minutes).

Step Four:
Close and seal the monitors and cultivate in a warm place for between 5-10 days.

Step Five:
Count the colonies on each plate and compare the numbers between the outdoor and indoor locations. The higher the difference of the indoor samples the poorer the indoor air quality.

Returns and Refunds

Please click here for cancellation and returns information.

If anything is unclear or you have more questions, feel free to contact our customer support team on 0800 433 7914.

How can I tell what mould is in the dish?

It would not be possible for an untrained person to identify different mould types just by looking at the dish. Detail microscopic analysis is required. If you require mould identification, contact our laboratory.

Why has the mould covered the whole dish?

If the mould covers the entire dish, it indicates a high concentration of mould spores in the testing environment. Also, some species of mould can develop rather aggressively and cover the dish quickly (2-3 days)

Why do I have to put one outside?

Placing a dish outside provides a control sample, allowing you to compare indoor mould levels to natural, outdoor mould levels. This helps determine if indoor mould concentrations are abnormally high.

Can you explain how to use it as I don't understand the booklet?

Absolutely! First, prepare the area by following pre-test instructions. Next, open the petri dish and expose it to the air for the time recommended. Seal the dish, label it, and incubate as instructed. After the incubation period, compare the results with the reference guide.

How do I interpret the results?

Count the number of mould colonies in the dish and compare them to the reference chart in the booklet. A higher number of colonies indoors compared to the outdoor control indicates elevated indoor mould levels. For in-depth interpretations, consult a mould expert.

How long before the test should I close all windows and doors to prepare?

Close all windows and doors at least 12 hours before conducting the test. This helps capture an accurate representation of the indoor air quality.

Why shouldn't I vacuum 24 hours prior to the test?

Vacuuming can disturb mould spores, artificially increasing their presence in the air. To ensure accurate results, avoid vacuuming for at least 24 hours before the test.

What is the reason for removing indoor plants before testing?

Some indoor plants can harbour mould on their soil or leaves. Removing them ensures they don't influence the test results.

Can pets influence the results of the mould test?

Yes, pets can carry mould spores on their fur or introduce them from outdoors. While they might slightly affect the results, it's essential to consider all potential mould sources.

How do I label multiple petri dishes if testing various rooms simultaneously?

Use a permanent marker to label each dish with the room's name and the date of the test. This ensures accurate tracking and comparison of results.

Is there a specific temperature or location recommended for incubating the petri dishes?

A consistent, warm environment, typically around 70-77°F (21-25°C), is ideal. Place dishes in a dark location away from direct sunlight.

How will I know if my culture medium is overgrown before the 5-day period?

Overgrowth typically appears as a dense, uncountable mass of mould. If you observe this before 5 days, it suggests a high concentration of mould spores. Ideally you should count the colonies before this situation occurs. 

Why shouldn't I count white or slimy colonies when evaluating?

White or slimy colonies might represent bacteria or other non-mould microorganisms. Focus on distinct mould colonies for accurate results.

What does it indicate if my indoor mould levels are higher than the outdoor air sample?

Higher indoor mould levels suggest potential mould sources indoors or conditions promoting mould growth, like dampness or poor ventilation.

How do seasonal fluctuations affect mould spore levels?

Seasonal changes can influence mould spore levels due to factors like humidity, temperature, and precipitation. Typically, wetter seasons may show elevated spore counts.

Why is Stachybotrys often associated with water damage?

Stachybotrys, commonly known as "black mould," thrives in persistently damp environments. Water damage provides the ideal conditions for its growth.

How do I differentiate between different types of mould on the petri dish?

Observe the colour, texture, and growth pattern. Compare these traits with reference images in the booklet or consult a professional for precise identification.

What are the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to mould?

Prolonged exposure can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and in some cases, more severe health problems, especially for those with weakened immune systems or mould sensitivities.

Can I send pictures of the mould I find in my house for a more accurate analysis?

While photos can provide a general idea, they may not capture enough detail for precise identification. For a thorough analysis, consider sending a physical sample or consulting a mould expert in person.

How do I prevent mould growth in areas of my home that are prone to dampness or moisture?

Ensure proper ventilation, fix leaks promptly, use dehumidifiers in humid areas, and regularly check for signs of mould, addressing any growth immediately.