It is nice to see you here, Leava.

There is no better method than the damp paper towel in a zip-lock bag when it comes to germination testing. Seeds really need to have the moisture on all sides from being folded up or rolled up in the paper towel. Some seeds need darkness to sprout, which the paper towels also enable. Some seeds never will sprout when left in water---it is too much for them and starts them rotting internally pretty quickly before they even can sprout. Attempting to sprout seeds in a jar of water also is risky because too much light can heat up the interior of the jar too much, so avoid direct sunlight if trying that method. So, I don't have any alternate method to recommend.

You might be able to guess which seeds are too old to germinate by using a list that says how long various types of seeds last in storage without losing too much viability. These lists assume that the seeds have been stored in proper conditions. Onion and leek seeds, for example, lose viability more quickly than tomatoes, squash and peppers. Or, just give folks the seeds and warn them that some may be too old to germinate well if at all.

Here's one of the many lists you can find on the internet that shows seed viability of commonly grown vegetables.

Seed Viability Chart

thank you Dawn.....and thrilled with the chart. I think I will separate out by types then share them out with a warm wish for good luck and tell them they may not sprout. I am beginning mask sewing tomorrow so between that and my own garden I think I cannot do the germination testing I had hoped to. good to "see" you again and thank you for helping me