How to collect a DNA sample: A step-by-step guide

DNA Kit Collection and Registration Instructions

Table of Contents:

  1. US Customers
  2. Mexico Customers
  3. Non-US (International) Customers
  4. Saliva Sample Kits (Non-US orders placed before August 1, 2024)

IMPORTANT: Please ensure your client does not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth, or chew gum for at least 1 hour before collecting your sample. If your client forgets, please email us to purchase a replacement kit.

1) US Customers: Buccal (Cheek) Swab DNA Test Kit

The DNA kit includes two soft swabs, which are used to collect cells from the inner lining of your client's cheek (buccal cells).

Before your client swabs:

  1. Verify the vial numbers

    Ensure the numbers on both vials match.

    If they do not, please contact us at support@selfdecode.com.

  2. Register the kit

    Follow these instructions to register your client's DNA kit. Your client's unique barcode is located on the side of the vial.

Collection Instructions:

  1. Follow the provided instructions to collect your client's cheek cell sample:

  1. Place the samples in the biohazard bag and then into the return envelope.

Mailing the kit:

  • Return: Use the prepaid USPS return envelope to mail the kit back to us.
  • Processing Time: Results will be ready within 3-5 weeks. You will receive an email notification once your client's results are available.

2) Mexico Customers: Dry Swab DNA Test Kit

Important Shipping Update: Temporary Suspension of Shipments to Mexico

We have received a notification from FedEx that shipments to Mexico are temporarily suspended due to issues with their final mile provider, Mexico DDP. As a result, we are currently unable to fulfill orders to Mexico.

At this time, FedEx has not provided a specific timeline for when services will resume. We will continue to monitor the situation and share updates as they become available.

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

  1. Verify Your Kit

    The kit number on the plastic pouches should match the kit number on the box. If the kit

    numbers do not match, please contact our Customer Service team at

    support@selfdecode.com.

    Register Your Kit

    Go to www.selfdecode.com/app/register to register the DNA kit. You’ll find the unique barcode on the side of the vial.

    Sample Collection Instructions

    Follow these steps carefully to collect your client's DNA sample:

    • Step 1: On a clean surface, open one swab and set the pouch aside for later.
    • Step 2: Insert the swab into your client's mouth and scrape the inside of their cheek for 45 seconds, rotating the swab firmly.
    • Step 3: Place the swab on a clean paper towel and let it air-dry for at least 30 minutes. Ensure it is completely dry before proceeding.
    • Step 4: Repeat steps 1 and 2 on the opposite cheek using the second swab. Be sure the two swabs do not touch each other.
    • Step 5: Once dry, return each swab to its original pouch and seal them.
    • Step 6: Place the sealed pouches into the provided return envelope, seal it, and mail it back.

  2. Mailing Instructions

    Follow these instructions to mail the kit back to us.

Note for customers in Mexico:

Return labels are not provided. You will need to purchase your own return label from a courier of your choice.

3) International (Non-US) Customers: Buccal (Cheek) Swab DNA Test Kit

Registration and Sample Collection:

  1. Register the kit

    Follow the instructions provided in your client's kit box to register their DNA kit

    1. Kits can be easily registered at www.selfdecode.com/app/register/

  2. Collect Your Sample

    Scan the QR code on the kit box or visit www.selfdecode.com/en/instructions/ for detailed collection instructions.

  3. Send Sample

    Insert the swab into the clear plastic bag, and fold over the top to seal the bag with the barcode sticker provided in your client's kit. Place the sealed bag into the mailer envelope and mail it back to us.

Mailing Your Kit:

Please be aware that we are unable to provide return labels for some countries at this time.

For a complete list, and more information, click here.

4) Saliva Sample DNA Test Kit

Non-US customers who ordered before August 1, 2024 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.

  1. Register Your Kit

    Open the box and visit https://selfdecode.com/app/register/ to register the kit

    1. You can find the sample barcode on the tube.

  2. Collect Your Sample

    Carefully read the instruction manual (located inside the kit box) and collect your client's sample.

Mailing Your Kit:

If you have any questions about the collection process, please do not hesitate to

reach out to our support team!

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