Reliable DNA results depend entirely on the quality of the biological material collected. When using an at home paternity kit, you must follow a strict clinical protocol to ensure the laboratory receives a viable sample. Contamination or insufficient cellular material can lead to inconclusive results, delaying your peace of mind.
Contact us on +447360536054 if you have questions before starting your collection.
How do I prepare for sample collection?
Abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum for at least 30 minutes before you begin. This prevents food particles or chemicals from interfering with the DNA extraction process. For breast-fed infants, wait at least one hour after their last feed to ensure no maternal DNA from the milk is present in the child's mouth.
Wash and dry your hands thoroughly. Prepare a clean, dry surface to lay out the kit components. Complete all labels on the sample envelopes first. Use a ballpoint pen to record the name, date of birth, and relationship (e.g., "Alleged Father" or "Child") clearly. Labeling after collection risks damaging the sample or causing a mix-up.
How do I handle the swabs correctly?
Remove the swab from its sterile packaging only when you are ready to use it. Do not touch the cotton tip with your fingers and do not let it touch any external surfaces. Hold the swab firmly by the plastic handle. If a swab falls or touches a surface, discard it and use a spare, or order a replacement kit.
How do I collect the cheek cells?
Open the mouth wide and insert the swab. Rub the tip firmly against the inside of the cheek for 60 seconds. Rotate the swab as you rub to ensure the entire surface of the tip collects buccal (cheek) cells. You are not just collecting saliva; you are "scrubbing" the skin cells from the inner lining of the mouth. Use the second swab provided in your express testing kit on the opposite cheek to maximize the DNA yield.
How do I package the samples?
Place the used swab immediately into the pre-labeled paper envelope. Never use plastic bags or airtight containers; these trap moisture which promotes microbial growth and destroys DNA. Seal the envelope securely using the adhesive strip.
Repeat the exact process for each person being tested. Ensure you do not swap the envelopes between the father and the child. Once all samples are sealed, place them into the return mailer provided.
Post the samples immediately. We strongly advise using a tracked or special delivery service to ensure the kit reaches our laboratory by the next working day. For urgent cases, contact us at +447360536054 to discuss our same-day result options.
