When I do this kind of test, I use the paper towel over wax paper, wet it and then place the seed. Fold it up and put it
into a plastic bag.  Then it does not dry out.  I put mine underneath the kitchen sink where it is dark.
I am about ready to do this test on some sweet corn seed that has been kept in the freezer since last year.
This would be a warm germ test, a colder test is also useful, and I should put one in the basement where it is cooler.