Three Methods:Cheek Cells/Saliva SwabHairFingernails/Toenails

There are several ways to collect DNA samples, many of which are fairly non-invasive and painless. Along with fingerprinting, parents are encouraged to collect and file with the authorities DNA samples on their children. Depending on the sample, DNA can be kept for from 5 to 35 years if handled property. You can purchase DNA testing kits that are extremely user friendly and provide complete packaging and mailing instructions. The DNA collection process for saliva, hair and fingernails is fairly simple and can be done using just a few household items.

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Method 1 of 3: Cheek Cells/Saliva Swab

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    1
    Refrain from eating or drinking, other than water, or smoking for at least 1 hour before taking the test.
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    2
    Wear rubber gloves.
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    3
    Rinse the mouth with warm water. If testing on a baby, allow her to drink water from her bottle before testing.
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    4
    Remove a sterile swab from packaging and take care not to touch the swab end.
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    5
    Scrape the inside of the check, under the tongue and behind the lips with the sterile swab.
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    6
    Set the swab aside without letting the swab end touch anything and allow it to dry for at least 1 hour.
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    7
    Cut the wooden end down enough so that the swab will fit into a plastic bag or other sterile container.
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    8
    Follow the packing and shipping instructions if using a DNA kit.

Method 2 of 3: Hair

  1. Collect DNA Step 9.jpg
    1
    Wear rubber gloves.
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    2
    Pull 10 to 20 strands of hair from the head with the follicle still attached.
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    3
    Avoid using hairs from a hairbrush or clothing.
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    4
    Do not touch the follicle end of the hairs.
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    5
    Place hairs in a plastic bag or paper envelope (do not lick the envelope).
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    6
    Follow the packing and shipping instructions if using a DNA kit.

Method 3 of 3: Fingernails/Toenails

  1. Collect DNA Step 15.jpg
    1
    Clean nails thoroughly with soap and water immediately before collection.
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    2
    Wear rubber gloves and avoid contact with other DNA sources, such as your saliva if testing someone other than yourself.
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    3
    Use a new nail clipper or completely sterilize a used one by boiling in water for 5 minutes.
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    4
    Clip nails from at least one hand; both are better because there is more material for extracting DNA.
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    5
    Clip nails over a sterile container, such as a plastic bag or the envelope in which they will be delivered or mailed.
  6. Collect DNA Step 20.jpg
    6
    Follow the packing and shipping instructions if using a DNA kit.
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Tips

  • DNA that is to be kept dry is best stored in paper; plastic will retain moisture and damage the DNA. Make sure that anything to be stored in plastic is dried completely before sealing it in the bag.
  • It is always advisable to have a DNA test kit because it contains complete instructions and consent forms. Consent forms must be included with DNA samples to be kept on file with the authorities. If sampling from a child or other person who cannot consent, the legal parent or guardian can give consent. If you do not have a DNA test kit, contact your local law enforcement agency for instructions.

Things You'll Need

  • DNA test kit
  • Sterile swabs
  • Sterile containers and envelopes
  • Plastic bags
  • Rubber gloves
  • Fingernail clippers
  • Scissors
  • Soap
  • Water

Sources and Citations

Article Info

Categories: Health Care and Medical Information

In other languages:

Español: Cómo tomar muestras de ADN, Русский: собрать образцы ДНК, Italiano: Come Prelevare un Campione di DNA, Português: Como Coletar DNA

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