How to collect your DNA sample
SelfDecode provides two types of DNA tests based on your global location:
- Buccal (Cheek) Swab DNA Test Kit: Customers located in the USA, Canada, or Mexico will receive a buccal swab DNA test kit. The kit contains small, sterile swabs that resemble soft cotton tips. These swabs are used to collect cells from the inner lining of your cheek (buccal cells).
*Note: Buccal swab kits will be provided for all orders placed after Sep 1, 2023; for all orders placed before this date, a saliva sample DNA kit will be provided.
- Saliva Sample DNA Test Kit: Customers residing in all other countries will receive a saliva collection DNA test kit. The kit contains a sterile, screw-top collection tube with a stabilizing solution. It also includes a funnel that attaches to the collection tube to easily transfer the saliva into the tube without spillage.
Please do not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth, or chew gum for at least 1 hour before collecting your sample. If you forget, please email us to purchase a replacement kit.
Buccal (Cheek) Swab DNA Test Kit
BEFORE YOU SWAB
- Verify that the numbers on both of your vials match.
- Register your DNA kit at selfdecode.com/register. You can find the sample barcode on your tube.
- Follow the swab instructions below:
4. Mail the return envelope back to us. Please review these instructions first.
If you are returning your kit from outside of the United States, please do not attempt to return your sample with your local post office. It will not be returned to us.
5. Wait 3-5 weeks. Once your results are ready, you'll be notified via email!
If you have any questions about the collection process, please do not hesitate to reach out to our support team! We can be reached at support@selfdecode.com.
Saliva Sample DNA Test Kit
Here are instructions for collecting your DNA sample:
1. Open the box and head to selfdecode.com/register to register your kit. You can find the sample barcode on your tube.
3. Carefully read the instruction manual ( located inside the kit box) and collect your sample.
4. After collecting your sample according to the instructions, place your sample in the biohazard bag.
5. Put the biohazard bag containing the sample into the SelfDecode box.
6. Put the entire box in the return envelope and seal the envelope.
7. Mail the return envelope back to us. Please review these instructions first.
If you are returning your kit from outside of the United States, please do not attempt to return your sample with your local post office. It will not be returned to us.
8. Wait 6-8 weeks. Once your results are ready, you'll be notified via email!
If you have any questions about the collection process, please do not hesitate to reach out to our support team! We can be reached at support@selfdecode.com.