How to do a Saliva Sample

What is a saliva sample used for?

Saliva (spit) contains DNA and other biological substances, including hormones and enzymes. A saliva sample may be requested for:

• Genetic testing
• Ancestry or paternity analysis
• Hormone or cortisol testing
• COVID-19 or other infection screening

✅ Before you begin:

To ensure the sample is accurate and uncontaminated:

• Do not eat, drink (including water), smoke, chew gum, or brush your teeth for at least 30 minutes before collecting your saliva.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before starting.
• If your mouth is dry, rinse with clean water and wait 10 minutes before collecting the sample.

What you’ll need:

• A sterile saliva collection tube or funnel kit (provided)
• Label or barcode sticker (if applicable)
• Absorbent pad and packaging (provided in kit)
• Sealing bag or container
• Your test request form (if required)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water, then dry thoroughly.
2. Open the collection kit and follow any specific instructions from the test provider.
3. If using a funnel-topped tube:
   • Spit directly into the funnel until the amount of liquid saliva (not bubbles) reaches the fill line. This may take 2–5 minutes.
   • Avoid coughing up mucus or phlegm — it should be clear saliva from the mouth.
4. If using a tube without a funnel:
   • You may need to spit multiple times or drool slowly into the container. Aim for the required volume (typically 1–2ml).
   • Do not scrape the inside of your mouth or add water.
5. Once full:
   • If your kit includes a stabiliser liquid in the lid, close the lid tightly until you hear a click. This will release the stabiliser into the saliva.
   • Gently shake the tube as directed (usually 5–10 seconds) to mix the sample and preservative.
6. Seal the container securely.
7. Label the sample with your full name, date of birth, and date/time of collection, unless already pre-labelled.
8. Place the tube in the protective packaging, then into the return envelope or box as directed.

⚠️ Important reminders:

• Do not eat or drink before giving your sample.
• Do not overfill or underfill the tube — use the guide line on the container.
• If your sample leaks or you accidentally contaminate it, contact your clinic or lab to request a replacement kit.

Returning your sample:

• Follow the kit’s return instructions carefully.
• Many UK tests include a Royal Mail Tracked Return Envelope or require drop-off at a GP, clinic, or post box.

For children:

If collecting saliva from a child:

• Ensure no food or drink for 30 minutes beforehand.
• If the child is too young to spit, ask your provider if a buccal swab is more appropriate.
• We do not do genetic testing for children under 18 years old

UK References:

• UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) laboratory standards
• NHS England: https://www.england.nhs.uk/genomics/
• GOV.UK: Saliva-based COVID-19 and diagnostic testing guidance