News of lead paint in toys and other products has boosted sales of inexpensive kits, but the Consumer Product Safety Commission says save your money.

"We just don't think it's a good idea because of the unreliability of these tests," said Julie Vallese, Consumer Product Safety Commission.

In more than half the products checked, the tests found no hazard, when in fact, lead was present.

The University of Rochester did a similar test on household dust. Almost two thirds of the time the home tests failed.

"If you use the swab and it comes out negative you think, 'Oh, we have no lead. That's no problem.' And you do no further checking. And that's exactly when you SHOULD do further testing," said Katrina Korfmacher, University of Rochester.

Manufacturers call their tests "accurate" and "lab approved" but admit they're no substitute for a professional inspection.

Homesafe, which sells both, said "Those work just fine for toys as long as you understand they only test the surface - not three millimeters under the surface."

Experts fear in testing every toy, parents are missing the biggest threat: lead paint in their homes. The CPSC says if you think your child's been exposed, have them tested because lead may affect brain development, even at low levels.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission did find one new testing method with highly accurate results, but because it involves radiation it's not available for consumer use.