Advanced and Specialized Testing (VOC, Mycotoxin, Endotoxin, Actinomycetes)

How to Collect a Dust Sample for DNA Testing

Before You Begin

  • Use only materials provided in your test kit: Swiffer cloth, gloves, Ziploc bag, and Chain of Custody (CoC) form.
  • Wear gloves to avoid contaminating the sample.
  • Plan to sample 10+ surfaces that haven’t been recently cleaned and represent normal dust buildup.

Where to Collect Dust Samples

To ensure the lab receives a representative sample of settled dust, choose a variety of undisturbed surfaces throughout the home, especially those less frequently cleaned. Recommended surfaces include:

  • Ceiling fan blades (top side)
  • HVAC return register covers
  • Tops of door frames and moldings
  • Entertainment centers, bookshelves, and nightstands
  • Picture frame edges and the tops of artwork

➕ Extra Guidance:

  • Sample each level of the home (e.g., upstairs and downstairs).
  • Sample each HVAC zone, if applicable.
  • Include areas of concern, such as locations with previous water damage or musty odor.
  • Optional but recommended: Collect an outdoor baseline sample away from the home to help interpret results.

How to Collect the Sample

  1. Put on disposable gloves.
  2. Open the Swiffer cloth provided and use it dry.
  3. Swipe each surface in one direction only. Avoid circular or back-and-forth motions.
  4. Sample multiple surfaces with the same cloth until it changes from white to gray (indicating visible dust was collected).
  5. Fold the cloth dust-side in and place it into the provided Ziploc bag.
  6. Label the bag with your full name and the sample location (e.g., “Main Floor Living Room”).
  7. Complete the Chain of Custody (CoC) form. Do not place it in the Ziploc bag.

Shipping Instructions

  • Include the completed CoC form in the box (not in the bag with the cloth).
  • Ship the sample back to the lab using the instructions provided in your test kit.
  • Important: Your results will not be released until the lab has received your payment—complete this online or by phone per your lab’s instructions.