Spore trap testing is often used in professional investigations, but it can also be useful in DIY scenarios when performed correctly. It’s best used when you need a broad view of airborne mold exposure or want to compare conditions across different rooms.

Air sampling may be appropriate:

• After remediation, to check whether airborne spore levels have returned to normal.
• When there are symptoms but no visible mold.
• To compare indoor air to outdoor air, especially when HVAC systems may be contributing to spread.
• Before moving into a new home, to get a baseline of air quality.

Air sampling is not recommended as a standalone method to confirm hidden mold. It should be used in combination with other tools—such as visual inspection, history, surface or dust testing—to make decisions about remediation or health-related concerns.