To collect a cheek swab sample, you rub the swab firmly against the inside of your cheek to collect cells, then either seal it in its stabilization-solution tube or let it air dry — depending on your kit. There is no fasting requirement and no need to pause medication before collection. The most important things are firm, thorough swabbing and following your kit's specific storage instructions.
Important: Register your kit before you collect, and follow your kit for how to store the swab afterward. Storage differs between kit types — using the wrong method can damage the DNA.
Before you collect
For at least 30 minutes before swabbing, do not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth, use mouthwash, or chew gum. Then:
Wash your hands with soap and water.
Rinse your mouth with plain water and spit it out to clear any food debris.
Open the swab package and hold it by the handle only. Do not touch the soft tip — contamination from your fingers can affect the sample.
Note: If your mouth feels dry, lightly moisten the swab tip with saliva in your mouth before starting. This helps with cell collection.
Swabbing your cheek
Place the swab tip firmly against the inside of one cheek.
Press firmly and scrub the swab back and forth, rotating it as you go, for 30–60 seconds. Also run the swab along the upper and lower gum line on that side.
Do not swab your tongue or the back of your throat.
If your kit includes two swabs, use the second swab on the opposite cheek with the same firm technique.
Important: Gentle or brief swabbing will not collect enough cells and will likely require a recollection. Firm, vigorous scrubbing for the full 30–60 seconds is essential for a valid sample.
After swabbing — Follow your kit's instructions
What you do after swabbing depends on your kit type. The two options are described below.
Stabilization-tube kits: Place the swab immediately into its labeled tube of stabilization solution. Break the handle at the scored line if indicated. Cap the tube tightly. Do not air dry the swab and do not freeze the tube — room temperature storage is correct for this type.
Air-dry kits: Lay the swab on a clean surface with the tip exposed and let it air dry completely — about 5–10 minutes — before placing it in its tube or envelope. Do not package the swab while it is wet. Sealing a wet swab traps moisture that can degrade the DNA.
After handling the swab correctly, label everything with your name, date of birth, and collection date, then place the sample in the biohazard bag and shipping envelope.
Need more help?
If you are unsure whether your kit uses stabilization solution or air drying, contact our support team through chat with your Kit ID. There is no cost for a replacement collection kit when a new sample collection is needed for the lab to complete your analysis.