How do I get the best possible SALIVA DNA sample?

REMEMBER TO DO THIS FIRST: Activate YOUR TEST KIT!

Go to www.StrateGene.me/Activate and follow the instructions. Your sample will not be processed unless this is complete.

 

How to Get the Best DNA Results

Poor quality DNA results are caused by dehydration, low white blood cells, high bacterial count in saliva, food, drink, chemicals, and shipping delays.

 

Plan to ship your sample on the same day of collection.

Here's how to get great results:

1. Swish your mouth with water. Spit out. 

2. Drink an 8-ounce glass of filtered water. Wait 30 minutes.
During this time, DO NOT eat, drink, sip, chew gum, brush teeth, use mouth wash, or otherwise put anything in your mouth. If you don't follow these instructions, your DNA sample may be of poor quality and discarded.
After 30 minutes, follow the steps below for "How to Collect Your Sample".

 

How to Collect Your SALIVA Sample

1.  Obtain the Collection Tube (with the blue funnel), and fill it with saliva just above the red indicator line. DO NOT FILL TUBE ALL THE WAY FULL (otherwise your sample will be rejected by the lab) - PLEASE FILL JUST ABOVE RED INDICATOR LINE.   
   1. 1. 1. Important: bubbles do not count as saliva!
            Tip: Think of sour things like "lemon" as this encourages saliva production
            Tip: Rub the outside of your cheeks for a few seconds. This promotes more saliva production.
            
            Your saliva should be just above red indicator line (no lower and no higher) as shown in photo:
            
            
            
2. After collecting the sample, pull off the blue funnel from the Collection Tube. Now squeeze ALL the preservation buffer into the tube.
3. Screw the white cap tightly onto the Collection Tube.
4. Mix Your Saliva and Preservation Buffer by inverting the Collection Tube upside-down and right-side-up 7 times.
   
5. Place the Collection Tube back into the box. Peel the back off the adhesive strip and press tightly to seal the box. 
6. Write down, or take a photo, of the Tracking Number found near the bottom of your Pre-Paid Return Shipping Label.
7. Ship your sample on the same day of collection. Mail your box to the lab using your mailbox, any US Post Office, or mail room.