How to Test Walls, Flooring, or Furniture for Lead with Detekt® Swabs

This kit is a screening tool to help you check painted or coated household surfaces for the possible presence of lead. Results are visual and approximate. For confirmation, follow up with a certified laboratory.

Step 1: Select the Test Area

• Choose a small spot on the wall, floor, window frame, or furniture that has original paint or finish.
  
• If possible, select an area that is chipped, scratched, or worn for more accurate screening.
  

Step 2: Expose the Surface

• If the surface has multiple paint layers, lightly cut or nick through the top layer so the swab can reach the base paint.
  
• For finished wood or coated furniture, select a discreet area to test.
  

Step 3: Activate the Swab

• Follow the kit instructions to break the internal vials and saturate the swab tip with solution.
  

Step 4: Apply to Surface

• Rub the swab firmly across the prepared area for 30–60 seconds.
  
• Cover a small square inch or so to maximize contact.
  

Step 5: Observe Results

• A pink to red or violet color on the swab tip or test area suggests possible lead.
  
• Strong positives appear quickly, while weaker positives may take a few minutes.
  

Tips for Reliable Screening

• Test more than one area, especially if the home has different paint layers or finishes.
  
• Use multiple swabs as needed.
  
• If results are unclear, repeat in a different spot.
  

Important Note

This method is for quick at-home screening only. Professional lab testing is recommended for regulatory or remediation purposes.

How to Test Soil or Flakes for Lead with Detekt® Swabs

This kit is designed as a screening tool to help you check soil, dust, or paint flakes for the possible presence of lead. Results are visual and approximate. If you get a positive result or are unsure, follow up with a certified laboratory for confirmation.

Step 1: Collect a Small Sample

• Scoop about 1–2 teaspoons of soil or place a few paint/dust flakes on a clean non-reactive surface such as a glass dish, ceramic plate, or foil.
  

Step 2: Moisten the Sample

• If the soil or flakes are dry, add a few drops of distilled water to dampen them. Do not flood the material. Aim for a paste-like texture.
  

Step 3: Activate the Swab

• Follow the kit instructions to break the internal vials and wet the swab tip with solution.
  
• Make sure the swab is fully saturated.
  

Step 4: Apply to Soil or Flakes

• Rub the swab tip firmly across the dampened soil or flakes for 30–60 seconds.
  
• Focus on contacting the solid particles, not just loose dust.
  

Step 5: Observe Results

• A pink to red or violet color indicates the possible presence of lead.
  
• Strong positives may show within a minute, weaker positives may take longer.
  

Tips for Reliable Screening

• Test several small samples from different spots in the area. Lead may not be evenly distributed.
  
• Use more than one swab if needed for multiple locations.
  
• Avoid excess dirt on the swab tip which can block the solution. A light but firm rub works best.
  
• High iron content or fertilizers can sometimes change color intensity. Retest in a different spot if results are unclear.
  

Important Note

This kit provides a quick at-home screening method only. It does not replace professional laboratory testing. If you suspect lead contamination, especially in soil where children play or food is grown, contact a certified lab for quantitative testing.

How to Test Water for Lead with Detekt® Test Cassettes

This kit is designed as a screening tool to check tap or well water for the possible presence of lead. Results are visual and approximate. For official confirmation, use a certified laboratory.

Step 1: Collect Water Sample

• Use a clean cup or container to collect cold tap or well water.
  
• Avoid using hot water as it may not give an accurate result.
  

Step 2: Prepare the Test Cassette

• Remove the cassette from its package and place it on a flat, clean surface.
  

Step 3: Apply the Sample

• Follow the kit instructions to add the correct number of water drops (2) into the sample well.
  
• Be careful not to overfill.
  

Step 4: Wait for Development

• Allow the cassette to sit undisturbed for the recommended time, usually about 5 minutes.
  

Step 5: Read the Result

• Compare the test line to the guide below.
  

Tips for Reliable Screening

• If possible, collect water after it has been standing in pipes for several hours, such as first thing in the morning.
  
• For best insight, test water from more than one faucet.
  
• Always use fresh water samples for each test.
  

Important Note

This cassette provides a quick screening result only. Laboratory testing is recommended for detailed, quantitative results or if required for compliance.