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While some individuals can identify mold by sight or smell, utilizing a dedicated test kit is a far more precise approach. These kits provide detailed findings, helping users understand exactly what kind of mold is present and how to address it. Furthermore, at-home kits are significantly more affordable than hiring a professional inspector. To identify the top options, we put several popular mold testing products through a series of hands-on evaluations.
The best choice for your home depends on whether you need to evaluate air quality or if a surface-specific test is more appropriate. Our top selection was the Evviva Sciences Mold Test Kit, which is capable of handling both. The kit includes 10 petri dishes, allowing for testing in multiple locations, and users can either identify the results themselves or pay an additional fee to send them to a lab for professional analysis.
Leaving mold growth unaddressed can lead to serious safety concerns, making an easy-to-use testing kit an excellent starting point if you suspect an issue. Review the top products below to see examples of the various kits available and the results of our testing process. Continue reading for more information on how to select the most effective mold test kit for your home.
Accurate mold detection. Mold test kits offer a precise and cost-effective alternative to professional inspections.
Top pick: Evviva Sciences. Tests both air and surfaces with 10 petri dishes, allowing for comprehensive home testing.
Variety of testing methods. Options include swabs, tape strips, air pumps, and petri dishes for different needs.
Importance of timely testing. Untreated mold poses safety risks; easy-to-use kits help identify issues quickly.
Bottom line: Mold test kits provide an affordable, accurate way to detect mold at home, with various options to suit different testing needs.
BEST OVERALL: Evviva Sciences Mold Test Kit
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Mold Armor Do It Yourself Mold Test Kit
BEST FOR SURFACE MOLD: Seeml Labs DIY Mold Test Kit
BEST AIR PUMP: My Mold Detective Air Sampling Mold Test Kit
ALSO CONSIDER: Entimp Mold Test Kit
Product
Type
Tests for
Results time
Evviva Sciences Mold Test Kit
Petri dish
Air quality, HVAC system mold, surface mold
2 to 5 days
Mold Armor Do It Yourself Mold Test Kit
Petri dish
Air quality, HVAC system mold, or surface mold
48 hours
Seeml Labs DIY Mold Test Kit
Swab and tape strip
Surface mold
About a week
My Mold Detective Air Sampling Mold Test Kit
Air pump
Air quality, surface mold
1 week
Entimp Mold Test Kit
Petri dish
Air quality, HVAC mold, surface mold
2 to 3 days
The top products below have been selected based on the type of mold test, the accuracy of the test, the overall quality, and the results from our hands-on evaluations. Any one of these should help verify the presence of both nontoxic and toxic mold in your home.
Can self-identify or submit for lab testing
Easy to use with clear instructions
Tests for: Air quality, HVAC system mold, surface mold
Ease of Use
4.5/5
Accuracy
5/5
Value
4.7/5
The Evviva Sciences mold test kit requires the user to properly deploy the petri dish in the target area and interpret the findings themselves. The kit provides a downloadable guide to assist users in identifying common household mold. For more complex situations, you can choose to pay an extra fee for professional lab analysis. Because the kit includes both petri dishes and swabs, it is versatile enough to test walls, showers, HVAC systems, vehicles, sinks, room air, and most other physical surfaces.
Because we had an older window air conditioning unit, we were primarily concerned about air quality in our main bedroom, though we also suspected mold in the guest bathroom. We placed a petri dish in both rooms to check the air and used a third dish outside as a control. The samples were stored in a dark closet, and we monitored them at 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours. Within 48 hours, we observed initial mold growth, and the results aligned with our lab tests—the bedroom air was essentially mold-free, while the bathroom showed evidence of various mold types.
We appreciated the ability to send the concerning sample for lab analysis. Since the kit includes 10 petri dishes and 10 collection swabs, we still have plenty of supplies left to retest the bathroom after completing the cleanup.
What our tester says: “The Evviva Sciences mold test kit was very easy to use. I used it to test air quality in my bedroom and bathroom and a worrisome wall in my bathroom. Since there are 10 tests in the kit, I have plenty left over to retest after I attempt cleanup.”—Katie Barton, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Evviva Sciences mold test kit at Amazon or Evviva Sciences.
Mold Armor Do It Yourself Mold Test Kit
DIY or lab-tested results available
Versatile mold sample collection options
Only contains one petri dish for testing
Tests for: Air quality, HVAC system mold, or surface mold
Ease of Use
4.5/5
Accuracy
5/5
Value
4.5/5
The budget-friendly Mold Armor petri test kit delivers results in just 48 hours without requiring lab analysis, and it comes with both a swab and a petri dish for testing air and surfaces. However, if you prefer professional verification, the manufacturer allows you to send the sample to a lab for an additional fee. Lab analysis costs must be handled online, but the kit provides a prepaid shipping envelope for your samples.
The testing process is straightforward: set up the petri dish to capture air samples near your ventilation system, or use the swab to collect surface samples from common problem areas, such as shower tiles. We placed the petri dish in our bedroom to compare it against other DIY and lab-tested samples, and the results were consistent. However, because the kit only includes one petri dish, you are limited to a single test. For air quality testing, Mold Armor suggests buying a second kit to compare indoor and outdoor results. This is not necessary when testing for surface mold.
Get the Mold Armor mold test kit at Amazon or DK Hardware.
Includes gloves and mask for safe sample collection
Offers 2 ways to collect surface mold samples
Ease of Use
4.5/5
Accuracy
5/5
Value
4.3/5
This Seeml Labs detection kit comes with swabs, two tape strips, gloves, and a face mask, allowing users to test their homes safely using multiple methods. After putting on the provided safety gear, gently roll the cotton swab over the target surface, then seal it inside the test tube. For the tape strips, apply them to the surface, remove them, and press them onto the test board to trap the sample. Place the board into the collection container and seal it.
We used the tape to test the vents of our bedroom window air conditioner and the wall near our guest bathtub, where we suspected mold growth. We also used the swab to check inside a bathroom sink drain that showed signs of mold. We mailed the tests using the provided envelope; while we had to pay for postage, the lab fees were included. We received our resultsifying the specific types of mold found
We found this kit to be an excellent value for surface testing, and it functions well as a black mold detector due to the inclusion of swabs and tape. We do wish it included a medium for testing air quality, however.
What our tester says: “I love that there are no additional lab fees associated with the Seeml mold test kit. Collecting samples was easy, and after mailing them in, I received a detailed lab report by email in about a week.”—Katie Barton, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Seeml Labs mold test kit at Amazon.
My Mold Detective Air Sampling Mold Test Kit
Accurate mold air quality test kit
Includes tape strips for surface mold testing
Must pay to lab-test the control sample
Our kit included incorrect sampling instructions
Tests for: Air quality, surface mold
Ease of Use
3.5/5
Accuracy
5/5
Value
3.7/5
The My Mold Detective kit includes an air pump, four air cassettes, and tape strips for surface sampling. Unlike kits that rely on self-identification, all samples must be sent to a lab. Each lab test costs $39, including the required outdoor control sample for air quality testing, and the user is responsible for shipping costs.
When we first opened our kit, we noticed the instructions did not match the air cassettes provided. After calling the company for clarification, we successfully took an outdoor air sample and an indoor sample in our primary bedroom. The collection process was simple, and we were ready to mail the samples for analysis.
The company states that results arrive within three business days of receiving the samples. It took about a week from the time we mailed them to receive our results, which is consistent with their timeline. We did receive an email offering faster results for an additional fee, which is a helpful option in urgent situations. The lab results were detailed and confirmed that our outdoor air samples had significantly higher mold levels than our bedroom. While air pump tests are among the most accurate, the extra fees can become costly if you need to test multiple rooms or surfaces.
Get the My Mold Detective air sampling mold test kit at The Home Depot.
Great price for the number of tests provided
Free photo analysis of mold samples offered
Enough tests for multiple rooms/surfaces
May be less accurate than traditional lab analysis
Tests for: Air quality, HVAC mold, surface mold
Ease of Use
5/5
Accuracy
5/5
Value
5/5
If you need fast results but prefer not to identify mold types yourself, the Entimp kit is a great option. The included petri dishes and cotton swabs allow for testing of air quality, HVAC systems, and surfaces. Once samples are collected and growth appears—often within 48 hours—you can photograph the petri dishes and email them to the company for expert identification and a free lab analysis. The kit also includes a guide for those who wish to perform their own identification.
Get the Entimp mold test kits at Amazon.
How We Tested the Best Mold Test Kits
When selecting our top recommendations, we examined a variety of tests on the market, including tape strips, swabs, petri dishes, and air pumps. We ensured our list offers options for every shopper, covering air quality and surface testing for rooms, HVAC systems, sinks, basements, attics, and even pets.
We followed the manufacturer’s instructions for each kit, focusing on two specific rooms—a primary bedroom with a window air conditioner and a bathroom—to compare accuracy. Our testing revealed that result times vary significantly. Consequently, we included a range of options, from instant on-site tests to comprehensive kits that require professional laboratory analysis. We evaluated all kits using a standardized rubric based on ease of use, accuracy, and value.
Product
Ease of Use
Accuracy
Value
Evviva Sciences Mold Test Kit
4.5/5
5/5
4.7/5
Mold Armor Do It Yourself Mold Test Kit
4.5/5
5/5
4.5/5
Seeml Labs DIY Mold Test Kit
4.5/5
5/5
4.3/5
My Mold Detective Air Sampling Mold Test Kit
3.5/5
5/5
3.7/5
Entimp Mold Test Kit
5/5
5/5
5/5
What to Consider When Choosing a Mold Test Kit
If you smell mold in your home, the next logical step is to check for it, either through a professional assessment or an at-home kit. To choose the right kit, you should understand the different testing methods, consider the accuracy of the results, evaluate the waiting period, and assess how easy the kit is to use. These factors will help you determine the best way to verify if mold is present.
At-home kits can test for mold in the air or on surfaces like furniture, floors, and walls. Surface testing equipment typically involves swabs and tape strips, while air testing is conducted using an air pump or a petri dish.
Swabs are a straightforward way to test surfaces. These tests use one or more cotton swabs that are rolled over the area in question. Swab tests can provide results in just a few minutes, though some products require you to send the sample to a lab.
Tape strips are another common surface testing method. These are generally sent to a lab for analysis, meaning you will have to wait for the results.
Air pumps are designed to sit on a flat surface to sample the air. The pump collects air and mold particles, and the kit must then be sent to a lab for processing.
Petri dish tests use a surface treated with a microbial culture to encourage mold growth. When mold spores land on the dish, they grow quickly, providing visible results. However, for the most accurate information regarding the severity of air quality and the specific type of mold, it is best to send the sample to a lab.
Air quality monitors do not identify specific mold types or levels, but they can indicate a room’s mold risk by tracking metrics like humidity, VOCs, and radon. These devices often connect to an app to provide real-time data.
When testing for harmful contaminants like mold, mildew, lead, or radon, accuracy is essential; otherwise, the test is not useful. Swabs and tape strips are effective for quickly gathering samples from walls or floors, but they can be prone to contamination or false results if other substances are present on the surface.
Petri dishes isolate the test from the surrounding surface, but if they are left open for too long, airborne contaminants can skew the results. The most accurate method is an air pump, as it pulls in air without requiring contact with potentially contaminated surfaces. Sending any test to a professional lab will always yield more accurate results than self-identification.
After using a swab or petri dish, you may have results in a few days. While kits often provide instructions for identifying mold yourself, this is not the most accurate method unless you have professional training.
Air pump and tape strip kits usually require lab analysis. Even if you have some personal expertise, professional labs have superior equipment, making them the best choice for accurate results. Depending on mail speed, lab location, and processing times, you may wait anywhere from 3 days to 4 weeks for your results.
The goal of an at-home kit is to allow the average person to test for mold using a simple, intuitive process. Typically, this involves taking a sample and either checking it yourself or mailing it to a lab.
Swab tests are performed by rolling a cotton swab over a surface. The swab is then placed in a test tube and either checked at home or sent to a lab.
Tape strips are applied to the surface being tested, making them ideal for areas like bathrooms or basements. After applying the tape to the moldy surface, you remove it and place it on a test board, which is then sent to a lab.
Air pumps require minimal effort, as they pull in air for a set amount of time. Once the cycle is complete, the sample is sent to a lab. These are often preferred by those dealing with respiratory concerns.
Petri dish tests are left out on a counter or table. The dish collects spores, which are then encouraged to grow by the microbial culture. After sealing the dish and allowing growth for at least 24 hours, you can either check the results yourself or send the sample to a lab for a more precise analysis.
Keep your home safe from spreading mold spores by testing and addressing problems promptly. For more information on how to test for mold or whether these kits expire, see the frequently asked questions below.
Q. How does a mold test kit work?
In general, mold test kits collect samples from either the air or a surface in the home. The sample is then checked by the user or sent to a lab for results that will be emailed within a period of 3 days to 4 weeks, depending on several different factors, such as the location of the lab and the mail transit timeline.
Q. Do mold test kits expire?
Most mold test kits don’t have an expiration date; however, it’s advised to use new test kits to reduce the chance of contaminated results because the chemicals in test strips, swabs, and petri dishes can degrade over time.
Q. If mold grew on the settling plate in my test kit, should I start treating my house for mold?
Settling plates, or petri dishes, are good for identifying the presence of mold, but not the type or severity of the issue. After using a petri dish mold test and finding mold on the dish, consider getting an on-site assessment from a professional mold removal company before treating mold.
Q. How do I know if my home is free of mold once repairs have been made?
After cleaning up mold growth and making infrastructure repairs to prevent recurring mold issues, use a home mold test kit to determine if it worked and that the home is now free of mold. If you still aren’t confident after using this method, you may want to have a professional mold inspection.
Q. Are at-home mold tests accurate?
Yes, at-home mold tests can be accurate. However, tests with a mail-in laboratory analysis will typically yield more accurate results compared to tests where the user must self-identify the types of mold.
Q. What are the most common types of mold found in homes?
According to the CDC, the most common mold types found in homes include Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus.
Q. What are signs of mold sickness?
Signs of mold sickness may include eye irritation, sinus congestion, sneezing, and coughing.
Q. How can I clean mold without spreading spores?
Remove mold by scrubbing it off hard surfaces with detergent and water. Soft, porous surfaces containing mold (like carpet) will likely need to be thrown away. Wear a mask, gloves, and goggles before attempting mold cleanup.
Katie Barton is a home improvement writer and product tester. In testing, she looked for mold kits that were easy to use, accurate, and provided a good value.
As the executive editor of Commerce/Product Reviews, Stephanie Cronk has spent years researching and testing products. She also brings over 12 years of commerce experience to the BobVila.com team, where her focus is on reviewing and testing products in a variety of categories including DIY, home improvement, home appliances, outdoor living, and more.
Additional research provided by Timothy Dale.
