How to collect your sample

Most collections take under five minutes. The single most important rule: ship your sample the same day you collect it.

What’s in your box

• Certified sample container(s), pre-cleaned and labeled
• Gloves and a frozen cool pack
• An insulated mailer with a prepaid return label
• A QR card linking to these steps

Step 1 — Get ready

• Wash your hands and put on the gloves.
• Have your container(s) and the cool pack nearby. Don’t open a container until you’re at the tap.
• For PFAS kits only: avoid lotions, cosmetics, or waterproof clothing, which can contaminate the sample.

Step 2 — Collect from the tap

• Use a cold-water tap you actually drink from (kitchen or bathroom sink).
• Run the cold water for a moment, then fill the container to the line. Don’t overfill.
• Do not rinse a pre-preserved metals bottle — the preservative is meant to stay in.
• For bacteria samples, don’t touch the inside of the bottle or cap. Cap it right away.

Step 3 — Chill it

Seal the container, place it with the frozen cool pack inside the insulated mailer, and keep it cold until you ship.

Step 4 — Ship the same day

Drop the sealed mailer in the mail using the prepaid label the same day you collect. Samples are time-sensitive — a sample that sits too long or gets warm may not be analyzable. If you can, log the return tracking number in your portal.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Collecting on a Friday night and mailing Monday — ship the same day, ideally early in the week.
• Rinsing a preserved bottle or overfilling past the line.
• Forgetting the cool pack, or leaving the mailer in a hot car.

Questions? See Help & FAQ or email support@sacredsamplingsolutions.com.