Before You Take Your DNA Test
Before You Take Your DNA Test
A few simple things can help you collect your DNA sample correctly the first time.
The short version
If you're taking a saliva or cheek-swab DNA test, the most important thing is to follow the instructions that came with your specific kit.
Give your mouth a break first
For common saliva-based genealogy tests, the collection instructions typically require a short period without food, drinks, smoking or chewing gum before collecting your sample.
What should you avoid?
Wait the required period before collecting your sample.
Follow the collection instructions for your specific kit.
Do not smoke during the specified waiting period.
Leave the gum aside before collecting your sample.
Activate your kit first
This is one of the easiest steps to forget — especially if you're excited to open the box and start.
Make sure the kit is registered to the correct person.
Your provider uses this code to connect the physical sample with the correct account.
Follow the instructions supplied with your kit.
Saliva or cheek swab?
Not all DNA tests collect DNA in the same way.
Saliva
Some tests ask you to provide saliva directly into a collection tube. The amount required and the final preparation of the tube depend on the provider.
Cheek swab
Other tests use a swab to collect cells from inside your cheek. Follow the supplied instructions for how long and how to swab.
Don't overthink it
Taking a DNA test sounds more complicated than it really is. You are not performing a genetics experiment at home.
Your job is simply to collect the sample correctly, seal it as instructed, and send it back to the laboratory.
The complicated part comes later when you start analyzing your matches.Before you send it back
One rule matters most
Your DNA kit's own instructions always come first.
Collection procedures can differ between companies and between different types of DNA tests. This guide is designed to help you prepare, not replace the instructions supplied with your kit.