How To Make Your Own DNA Kit

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Here are step-by-step instructions, and a list of what you need, to make your own DNA kit (MYOK). You don’t need special consent forms for us to be able to test your samples. Once you have everything done, and the test you want to do ordered, you can just send them to us.

Types Of Tests You Can Use The Make Your Own DNA Kit (MYOK) Option

Any of our DNA tests that are not going to be used in court can be done using the MYOK option. Paternity, sibling test, and grandparent DNA tests are the most common. Allow the swabs a MINIMUM of 1 hour to dry. Place the swab somewhere clean, ensuring that the end of the swab is not touching anything else (for e.g. standing upright in a glass with cotton-end in the air). When they are dry, place the swabs into the paper envelope.

Sometimes you may not want to wait for a kit to arrive in the mail, or don’t want anything coming to your home. That’s why we want you to know about this choice for DNA testing. This is also a great choice if you want to send in something different from a mouth swab to test. We can test toothbrushes, nail clippings, cigarette butts, and lots of other things. If you want to see a list of things we suggest, please click on Alternative DNA Samples.

Make Your Own DNA Kit Instructions

First, a couple of items to be aware of. We suggest not eating or smoking for about 30 minutes before you collect DNA. In order to get the best sample, a clean mouth is suggested – just rinse with water – but no toothpaste or mouthwash please. Finally, do NOT touch the tip of the swab at any time, even to see if it is dry.

Follow These Steps For Mouth Swab Testing

1. You will need 4 sterile cotton-tipped swabs for each person. Regular cotton swabs, like “Q-Tips”, work fine. You don’t need a special brand, and even the ones from a dollar store work great. If the swab has cotton at both ends, cut one of the ends off. This will leave the shaft and one cotton top. It is important not to touch the cotton end with your fingers.
2. Next, you will also need a paper envelope for each person. This is where you will put the cotton swabs after samples have been collected.
3. Write on the outside of the envelope the case number you were emailed after your order. Also write the name of the person whose DNA is going into the envelope. The name must match exactly what you listed on the order form. Finally, write the possible relationship we are going to test for: suspected father, child, sibling, grandparent, aunt or uncle, twin, etc.
4. Using one of the clean swabs, rub the cotton end of the swab along your cheek, gums, and behind your lips also. You should do this for about 20–30 seconds per person. Remember, you are collecting cheek cells and not saliva. It is best if you so rub against the inside of the cheek. Do this with 4 swabs for each person, two on the right cheek and two on the left cheek.
5. Let the swabs dry. We want to avoid having a wet swab soaking through the paper envelope. When it’s dry, just put the swabs into the paper envelope.
6. When you are done, just put all the envelopes with the swabs into a larger envelope. You can now send it to our lab for processing.

How Accurate Is A DNA Test When I Make My Own Kit

When assessing the accuracy of our home paternity tests, it’s important to recognize they align with the stringent standards in place for legal paternity testing. These tests are conducted in our partner laboratory accredited by recognized entities including the College of American Pathologists (CAP), the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), and certified under ISO 17025 and ISO 9001.

We adhere to rigorously validated procedures to ensure the precision of sample processing across all paternity and family DNA testing services. Our protocol includes checking for 24 specific genetic markers, which significantly boosts the reliability of the results provided. Because of all of these steps we can offer a definitive accuracy of 100% for our test results.

How Fast Will I Get My DNA Test Results?

How quickly can you expect your DNA test results from Journey Genetic Testing? You’re in luck because we offer some of the fastest service times in the DNA testing industry. Here’s a breakdown:

• Standard DNA Test Speed: Once your sample arrives at our lab, you’ll receive your results via email in just 1-2 business days. Our regular processing if quicker than most other labs’ expedited testing (for higher prices).

At Journey Genetic Testing, we ensure that waiting for important test results doesn’t add to your stress. Fast and efficient, our processes are designed to give you the answers you need swiftly.

What Else Do I Need To Know About The DIY DNA Test Option?

Ordering a DNA test online can be broken down into three simple steps. Here’s how you can ensure the process is efficient and secure:

• Step 1: Place Your Order Online
• Begin by selecting a DNA test kit on our order page. During the checkout process, you will need to provide basic information such as your name, email address, and billing details. Payment options are typically versatile, allowing for the use of PayPal or various credit cards. Detailed instructions will be sent to the email address you provide, along with a prepaid return label (USA addresses). This process is designed to protect your privacy.
• Step 2: DNA Sample Collection
• Once you receive your DNA samples, we will begin testing. If you are using cotton swabs standard processing is used. If you are using an alternative DNA sample, we will do a viability test first on the specimen, and then move to our regular process.
• Step 3: Open Your Emailed Results
• The lab will analyze your DNA sample with precision, ensuring 100% accuracy. You can expect to receive your results via email within 1-2 business days after the lab has received your samples. The results will detail the findings in a clear and easy to understand manner.

By following these steps, you can discreetly and accurately determine paternity, all from the comfort of your home.