Follow these instructions to collect cheek swab samples for home paternity and relationship DNA testing.
Collecting DNA samples at home is quick, simple, and painless. Whether you've ordered a Home Paternity DNA Test, Sibling DNA Test, or another Relationship DNA Test, a cheek swab is generally all that's needed.
At Validity Genetics, our home DNA testing kits include the materials and instructions needed to collect your samples privately. No needles, blood draws, or medical appointments are required for standard home relationship DNA testing.
Follow these steps to collect and return your DNA samples properly.
Before Collecting Your DNA Samples
Before beginning, each participant should read the instructions included with the DNA testing kit.
For best results:
Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum for at least 30 minutes before collection.
Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
Keep each person's swabs and sample envelopes separate.
Avoid touching the cotton tips of the swabs.
Complete all required consent forms.
Important: Always follow the specific instructions included with your kit if they differ from this general guide.
Step-by-Step DNA Sample Collection Instructions
Step 1: Complete the Consent Forms
Fill out the required information and consent forms included with your kit.
Each adult participant must provide the required consent. A parent or legal guardian generally provides consent for a minor, subject to applicable requirements.
Step 2: Label the Sample Envelopes
Each participant should have their own labeled sample envelope.
Complete the requested information before collecting the DNA samples to prevent confusion.
Step 3: Collect the Cheek Swab Samples
Remove the sterile swab from its packaging without touching the cotton tip.
Place the swab inside your mouth and rub it firmly against the inside of your cheek for approximately one minute, or as directed by your collection kit.
Rotate the swab while rubbing to collect cells from the cheek lining.
Repeat the process using the additional swab provided for that participant.
The collection should be firm but comfortable.
Step 4: Allow the Swabs to Air-Dry
After collection, allow the swabs to air-dry completely according to your kit instructions.
Do not touch the swab tips or use a hair dryer, heater, or other heat source.
Keep the swabs separated and protected from contact with other surfaces while drying.
Step 5: Package the DNA Samples
Once completely dry, place each participant's swabs into their corresponding paper sample envelope.
Make sure swabs from different participants do not touch or become mixed together.
Seal each envelope securely.
Step 6: Return the Samples to the Laboratory
Place the labeled sample envelopes and completed consent forms into the return shipping package.
Check that all required paperwork and samples are included before sealing the package.
We recommend using a trackable shipping service so you can monitor delivery to the laboratory.
How Long Does DNA Testing Take?
At Validity Genetics, standard home paternity and relationship DNA tests generally take 2–3 business days after all required samples are received and checked in at the laboratory.
Business days are Monday through Friday, excluding weekends and holidays. Shipping time is additional.
Once testing is complete, your results are emailed directly to the purchaser as a PDF report.
For more information, read How Long Does It Take to Get Paternity DNA Test Results?.
Need Help With DNA Sample Collection?
Proper DNA sample collection helps reduce contamination and unnecessary testing delays.
For additional information about collecting cheek swabs and other types of DNA samples, see our How to Collect DNA Samples at Home guide.
Ready to order? Explore our Home Paternity DNA Testing and Relationship DNA Testing options, or contact Validity Genetics with questions about your collection kit.
