Follow the steps below and compare the colour of the test swab tip with the colour chart on this page. We recommend keeping this guide open on your phone while performing the test.
Before You Begin
Prepare a new, unused test swab, a glass of clean water and a timer. Hold the swab by its handle and avoid touching the tip. Use a new swab for each testing location.
How to Use the Lead Test
1. Moisten the Test Tip
Dip the tip into water for 2 seconds. Gently shake off any excess water. Once the tip turns mustard yellow, it is ready to use. Use it immediately.
2. Test the Surface
Rub the moistened tip of the test swab against the surface you want to examine for 30 seconds.
3. Compare the Colour on Your Phone
Check for any colour change after rubbing the surface. Hold the test tip next to the colour chart on this page and visually compare the colours. Make sure you are reading the colour of the test tip itself.
Understanding Your Results
Mustard Yellow / Orange – No Colour Reaction
If the tip remains its original mustard yellow or orange colour, the test has not shown a colour reaction indicating lead. This does not guarantee that the material is lead-free.
Red / Pink / Purple – Possible Presence of Lead
A colour change to red, pink or purple indicates the possible presence of lead on the tested surface. If you need a definitive result, have the findings confirmed through an appropriate laboratory analysis.
Unclear Colour – Inconclusive Result
If the colour is difficult to interpret, the surface material transfers significant amounts of pigment onto the swab, or the tip did not develop its initial mustard yellow colour, the result should not be considered negative. Repeat the test using a new swab or contact MiljøLab for guidance.
Tip for Reading Results on Your Phone: Compare the colours in neutral lighting and consider disabling Night Shift, night mode or any colour filters on your phone. Lighting conditions and screen settings can affect how colours appear. Always refer to both the colour chart and the written colour descriptions.
What Does the Test Tell You?
This is an indicative surface test designed to help identify the possible presence of lead.
It does not measure the concentration of lead and cannot rule out lead hidden beneath additional layers of paint or varnish. Low concentrations of lead may go undetected, and pigments from the tested material may interfere with the colour reaction.
Not Sure About Your Results?
Contact MouldLab at hello@mouldlab.uk and let us know which surface you tested and how you performed the test. We'll be happy to help you understand your results.