Black Mold Testing: Quick Methods & Affordable Kits

Black mold is also known as Stachybotrys chartarum. Mold can occur indoors when spores travel inside your home. Many materials can be a source of nutrient for mold, such as wet cardboard and drywall. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, black mold is consistent in areas of moisture since the moisture provides for the mold's growth. Testing kits for black mold can provide quick results and are sometimes inexpensive, with kits available for $20 to $40.

Things You'll Need

• Stachybotrys black mold test kit
• Latex gloves

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Instructions

• 1

  Buy a kit specifically designed for Stachybotrys. Open your kit and remove the contents.

• 2

  Use the swab to collect a sample.

  Take the swab from your kit and collect a sample from an area where you believe mold is present. Place the swab into the solution that is provided with your kit. Gently agitate the solution with the swab.

• 3

  Use your test strip.

  Take your swab out and discard it. Take your test strip, which is also provided with the kit, and place the strip into your solution.

• 4

  Watch for the test strip to change color.

  Examine the color of the testing strip. Identify if the strip is positive for Stachybotrys. If mold is present, the testing strip will change in color.