Buzz
Whether you’re anticipating the delivery of your government-provided free at-home COVID-19 tests or have already gathered a supply, it’s crucial to understand that the storage method and location of these rapid tests significantly impact their performance.
While there might be minor differences among various rapid test brands, keeping them outside a specific temperature range can reduce their effectiveness. Unlike using slightly expired acetaminophen, which may still offer some benefit, at-home COVID tests must remain fully functional due to their critical role in detecting infections.
The impact of temperature on the accuracy of at-home COVID-19 tests
For optimal accuracy, at-home COVID-19 tests must be kept at room temperature. While specific guidelines can be found in the test instructions, “room temperature” typically falls between 68 and 74 degrees Fahrenheit.
While this might seem like common sense, and something you’d naturally do, your location and how you obtain the tests can introduce additional temperature-related considerations.
High heat conditions
Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can irreversibly harm the chemicals and delicate proteins in rapid COVID tests, rendering them less reliable, according to Dr. Amy Mathers, associate professor of medicine and pathology and associate director of clinical microbiology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, as reported by NBC’s TODAY Show.
Freezing conditions
According to Mathers, at-home COVID tests perform slightly better in cooler conditions, provided the liquids in the kit remain unfrozen. However, ensure they return to room temperature before use, and store any leftover tests at room temperature for later.
Maintaining the ideal temperature for at-home COVID tests
Although tests should ideally be stored and used at room temperature, Dr. Omai Garner, associate clinical professor and director of clinical microbiology at UCLA Health, notes that temporary exposure to temperatures between 35 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit should not render them unusable. However, he emphasizes that the tests must never exceed this range, even briefly.
This requires careful consideration of how the tests are transported and where they are stored in your home.
Transportation and delivery
When your tests are being delivered to your residence, utilize the provided tracking details to monitor the shipment’s arrival time. Retrieve the package promptly to prevent prolonged exposure to extreme weather conditions in your mailbox or on your doorstep.
Similarly, if you’re buying tests locally, avoid leaving them in your vehicle (or trunk). While brief stops during errands are acceptable, refrain from storing the tests in your car for extended periods or overnight.
Storage at home
Different areas of your home vary in temperature, so choose a storage spot for your at-home COVID tests wisely. Avoid placing them in closets with hot water heaters or cabinets near heat sources like vents or radiators. Additionally, steer clear of damp or humid locations such as unfinished basements, garages, or poorly ventilated bathrooms.
If you haven’t ordered your tests yet, follow the instructions on this page of the USPS website. For more details about the program and guidance on using at-home COVID tests, visit the government’s new site COVIDtests.gov or refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s latest self-testing guidelines.
