How to Collect a Stool Sample at Home: 10 Medically Approved Steps to Ensure Accuracy

When experiencing digestive problems, patients may be prescribed a stool test to help detect infections, parasites, occult blood, or other abnormalities. However, if the sample is contaminated with one of three common impurities—urine, toilet water, or toilet paper—the analysis process can be affected, causing many people to worry about having to recollect the sample.

In this article, Tiptory will guide you on how to collect a stool sample using a kit, step-by-step, from preparing the toilet, collecting the stool sample, to packaging and handover, helping you perform the procedure cleanly, with less confusion, and fewer errors.

How to collect a stool sample correctly

1. Install the collection device in the toilet

• Place the "hat-shaped" plastic tray included in the stool collection kit between the toilet bowl rim and the seat.

• Check that the tray is securely held and does not touch the water in the toilet bowl.

• Urinate first if necessary to avoid urine contaminating the sample.

2. Defecate into the collection tray

• Defecate directly into the plastic tray, avoiding contact between the stool and the toilet water.

• Do not allow the sample to be contaminated with urine, toilet paper, soap, or detergents, as these impurities can affect the stool test process.

3. Place the sample in the specialized container

• Use the provided spoon to collect the amount of stool as instructed on the kit.

• If the sample has mucous, is liquid, or contains abnormal blood, take a portion from that area, unless otherwise instructed by the testing facility.

• Place the sample in the container, do not fill beyond the marked line, and screw the lid on tightly.

• Dispose of the collection tray as instructed, then wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

4. Record information and submit promptly

• Fill in your full name, date of birth, and the date and time of stool sample collection if required by the healthcare facility.

• Place the sample container in the provided bag, separate from the requisition form.

• Take the sample to the clinic or laboratory as soon as possible. Storage time and methods may vary depending on the type of test, so prioritize the instructions on the kit or from healthcare personnel.

Part 1: Preparing stool collection tools correctly

Step 1: Check medication before sample collection

Discuss current medications with your doctor

• Before collecting a stool sample, provide the name, dosage, and time of use of all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements.

• This information helps your doctor assess whether the medication might alter the stool characteristics or affect the stool test results.

• Do not stop taking prescribed medication on your own. Only temporarily stop or change the dosage under the guidance of your doctor or the laboratory.

Note products that may affect the sample

• Some medications and gastrointestinal products, such as antacids, bismuth subsalicylate, mineral oil, or stool softeners, can affect certain types of tests.

• If you are taking Pepto-Bismol, Maalox, Kaopectate, or similar products, inform them before collecting a stool sample.

• Medication restrictions vary depending on the purpose of the test, so a general discontinuation period should not be applied to all cases.

Inform if you have recently had a barium X-ray

• Barium is a contrast agent used in some gastrointestinal imaging techniques, such as barium swallow for esophagus-stomach imaging.

• This substance may remain in the intestines and affect some test results.

• If you have recently undergone a procedure involving barium, inform your doctor and only collect the stool sample when the appropriate time is confirmed.

Step 2: Prepare the stool collection kit

Receive the kit from the healthcare facility

• Your doctor or the laboratory will provide a stool collection kit suitable for the prescribed test.

• The kit usually includes a sample container with a tight-fitting lid, a collection spoon, a storage bag, and instructions.

• Do not use food containers, old bottles, or household items as substitutes, as they can contaminate the sample.

Ask about the collection tray

• Ask the healthcare staff if the kit includes a "hat-shaped" plastic tray to attach to the toilet.

• The tray helps collect stool more cleanly and reduces sample contact with toilet water, urine, or toilet paper.

• If there is no tray, ask the laboratory about safe alternative collection devices before collecting the stool sample.

Read the instructions carefully before performing the procedure

• Check the collection method, the required sample amount, storage requirements, and submission deadline.

• Some stool collection kits have multiple containers with different solutions; do not discard the solutions and do not mix the containers.

• When the instructions on the kit differ from general information, prioritize the requirements of your doctor or the stool testing laboratory.

Step 3: Install the stool collection tray correctly

Attach the collection tray to the toilet

• Lift the toilet seat, place the "hat-shaped" plastic tray over a portion of the toilet bowl opening, then lower the seat to secure the tray.

• Adjust the tray to be directly below where you will sit to defecate, not touching the water in the toilet bowl.

• Before collecting the stool sample, ensure the tray is secure and there is no risk of it slipping or tipping over.

Prevent sample contact with impurities

• The collection tray helps prevent stool from falling into the water, thereby reducing the risk of sample contamination.

• Do not allow the sample to be contaminated with toilet water, urine, toilet paper, soap, or detergents, as these factors can affect the stool test results.

• It is recommended to urinate and flush the toilet first, then wash your hands before installing the collection tray.

Only use appropriate alternative devices

• The specialized tray included in the stool sample collection kit is the preferred option.

• If a tray is not provided, ask your doctor or the laboratory about alternative collection methods.

• Do not collect stool directly from toilet water or use dirty, wet, or chemically contaminated devices.

Step 4: Collect sample without a tray

Prepare clean plastic wrap

• If you don't have a specialized collection tray, you can use clean plastic wrap to help with stool collection, but you should confirm with your doctor or the laboratory first.

• Lift the toilet seat, spread the plastic wrap across the toilet bowl opening, then lower the seat to secure it.

• Do not allow the plastic wrap to touch water, soap, or detergents in the toilet.

Secure the plastic wrap firmly

• Use tape to secure the edges of the plastic wrap to the sides of the toilet if necessary.

• Gently press down on the middle to create a depression deep enough to collect stool but still above the water level.

• Check that the wrap is not torn, slipping, or overly stretched before sitting down.

Keep the sample from being contaminated

• Urinate before installing the plastic wrap to prevent urine from contaminating the sample.

• Do not allow toilet paper, toilet water, or chemicals to come into contact with the sample, as they can affect the stool test results.

• After defecating, use the provided tool to transfer the sample into the stool sample collection container and dispose of the plastic wrap according to the healthcare facility's instructions.

Step 5: Use paper to collect sample correctly

Only use paper when permitted

• Newspaper should only be a last resort when no collection tray or plastic wrap is available.

• Before using, ask your doctor or the laboratory, as paper can absorb liquids, tear, or be unsuitable for some types of stool tests.

• Prioritize clean, dry paper and do not use paper that has come into contact with food, chemicals, or dirt.

Place paper on the toilet

• Lift the toilet seat, place several layers of paper across the toilet bowl opening, then lower the seat to secure the paper.

• You can secure the two edges with tape so the paper doesn't slip when collecting the stool sample.

• Gently press down on the middle to create a depression to collect stool, but do not let the paper touch the toilet water.

Minimize sample contamination

• Urinate before placing the paper and do not put toilet paper on the collection surface.

• After defecating, use the specialized spoon to transfer the sample into the stool sample collection container immediately, avoiding parts that have absorbed water or touched the toilet.

• If the paper tears, the sample falls into the water, or is contaminated with urine, contact the testing facility to ask if a new sample needs to be collected.

Part 2: Instructions for collecting and storing stool samples at home

Step 1: Defecate into the collection device

Check the device before sample collection

• Ensure the collection tray or alternative device is securely installed, clean, dry, and not touching the toilet water.

• Urinate first if necessary to minimize urine contamination of the sample.

• Have the container and specialized spoon ready, but only open them when you begin collecting the stool sample.

Defecate as normal

• Sit directly over the collection device and defecate naturally, without straining.

• Try to ensure the stool falls entirely into the tray, without contact with water or the toilet bowl sides.

• There is no need to collect the entire stool amount, unless your doctor or the stool sample collection kit instructions require it.

Keep the sample from being contaminated

• Do not allow urine, toilet water, toilet paper, soap, or detergents to mix with the sample.

• If wiping is necessary, do so after you have collected enough sample into the container.

• If the sample falls into water or is contaminated with impurities, do not assume it is still usable; ask the stool testing laboratory if a new sample needs to be collected.

Step 2: Place the stool sample into the container correctly

Use the tools provided with the collection kit

• Open the container and use the provided spoon or collection stick; do not use household spoons or utensils.

• Take small amounts from several different areas of the stool to make the sample more representative.

• If the stool has mucous, is liquid, or contains abnormal blood, you may take a portion from that area, unless otherwise instructed by the stool testing facility.

Collect the correct amount of sample required

• The amount of stool needed depends on the type of test; prioritize the fill line and instructions on the kit.

• If the container has no line, only collect the amount requested by your doctor or the laboratory; do not automatically fill the container.

• For containers pre-filled with preservative solution, do not discard the liquid and do not collect sample beyond the specified line.

Close the container immediately after sample collection

• Place the sample into the container carefully, avoiding getting stool on the rim or outside of the container.

• Screw the lid on tightly to prevent leakage during storage and transportation.

• Do not allow the sample to be contaminated with urine, toilet paper, toilet water, or chemicals, as this can affect the stool test results.

Do not combine samples from multiple bowel movements without instruction

• If the stool sample amount is insufficient, do not add stool from a subsequent bowel movement to the same container unless explicitly instructed.

• Mixing samples collected at different times can alter sample quality.

• Contact the healthcare facility for instructions on collecting additional samples or using a new stool sample collection kit.

Step 3: Dispose of tools after sample collection

Seal the sample container before cleaning up

• After collecting the stool sample, tighten the lid of the container and check if the outside is soiled or leaking.

• Place the container in the specialized bag according to the instructions of the stool testing laboratory.

• Place the sample container in a safe location, away from cleaning areas and food.

Dispose of remaining stool

• Empty any remaining stool from the collection tray or plastic wrap into the toilet and flush.

• Handle gently to minimize splashing of contaminants onto the floor, clothing, or surrounding surfaces.

• Do not discard the sample that has been placed in the container, unless healthcare personnel confirm that the sample is unacceptable.

Dispose of tools in designated areas

• Place single-use collection trays, plastic wrap, gloves, and related waste into a garbage bag.

• Tie the bag securely before discarding it in a lidded household trash can, unless the healthcare facility provides specific disposal instructions.

• Absolutely do not flush plastic trays, plastic wrap, or bags down the toilet, as they can cause blockages.

Clean hands and collection area

• Wash hands with soap under running water after completing the stool sample collection.

• Clean and disinfect any surfaces contaminated with stool using appropriate products, following label instructions.

• Do not share cleaning tools for this area with food preparation utensils.

Step 4: Store the stool sample correctly

Check storage requirements

• Storage methods depend on the type of stool test, container type, and accompanying preservative solution.

• Some samples need to be refrigerated, while others must be kept at room temperature or delivered to the laboratory immediately.

• Always prioritize the instructions on the stool sample collection kit or the directives from healthcare personnel; do not assume all samples must be refrigerated.

Record complete information on the container

• Record your full name, date of birth, or patient ID as required by the healthcare facility.

• Accurately add the date and time of stool sample collection for the laboratory to assess storage time.

• Check that the container lid is tight and the label is not smeared or peeling before storage.

Package the sample safely

• Place the sample container in a leak-proof bag provided in the kit.

Refrigerate only if instructed

• If refrigeration is required, place the sample bag in a separate sealed container and store it in the designated location in the refrigerator.

• Do not freeze the sample unless specifically instructed by your doctor or the laboratory.

• If you are unsure whether the sample should be refrigerated or kept at room temperature, contact the testing facility before storing it.

Submit the sample as soon as possible

• Deliver the sample to the clinic or stool testing laboratory within the instructed timeframe.

• If the sample has been left out for too long, stored at the wrong temperature, leaked, or lost its label, inform the healthcare staff.

• Do not submit improperly stored samples yourself, as this can affect the reliability of the results and may require you to collect a new sample.

Step 5: Submit the stool sample as soon as possible

Submit the sample within the deadline

• After collecting the stool sample, deliver it to the clinic or laboratory within the instructed timeframe.

• Samples left out for too long can change in microbial count or the components to be analyzed, thereby affecting the reliability of the results.

• The 2-hour or 24-hour rule does not apply to all cases, as the submission deadline depends on the type of stool test, collection container, and preservatives used.

Maintain storage conditions during transport

• Seal the container tightly and place it in the leak-proof bag provided with the stool test collection kit.

• If the sample requires refrigeration, maintain the instructed storage temperature throughout transport.

• Do not leave the sample in direct sunlight, in a hot car trunk, or near food and drinks.

Report any issues with the sample

• Inform healthcare staff if the sample was submitted past the deadline, stored at the wrong temperature, leaked, or lost its label.

• Do not assume the sample is still usable; the laboratory will decide if a new sample is needed.

• Bring the requisition slip and provide the exact date and time of sample collection.

Proactively obtain test results

• Result turnaround time can range from a few days to longer, depending on the type of test and the facility's procedures.

• Ask for the expected result date when submitting the sample instead of assuming results are always available after 3–4 days.

• Contact your doctor for result interpretation and treatment guidance; do not self-diagnose based solely on abnormal readings.

Wear gloves when collecting stool samples

Choose single-use gloves

• Wear clean medical gloves before collecting a stool sample to minimize direct skin contact with stool and ensure a more hygienic process.

• Nitrile or vinyl gloves can be used; if you have a latex allergy, avoid using latex rubber gloves.

• Check that gloves are not torn or punctured before starting.

Remove gloves correctly after sample collection

• After sealing the stool test collection container, remove gloves from the inside out to avoid touching contaminated surfaces.

• Place used gloves in a trash bag, tie it securely, and dispose of it according to healthcare facility guidelines.

• Do not wash or reuse single-use gloves.

Still wash hands after removing gloves

• Gloves do not replace hand hygiene.

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after collecting the sample, even if gloves were not torn.

• Clean any surfaces that may have come into contact with stool to reduce the risk of microbial spread before submitting the sample to the stool testing laboratory.

References

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3. National Health Service. (2023). How to collect a sample of poo (stool sample). NHS England.
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5. Vandepitte, J., Verhaegen, J., Engbaek, K., Rohner, P., Piot, P., & Heuck, C. C. (2003). Basic laboratory procedures in clinical bacteriology (2nd ed.). World Health Organization.
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7. York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. (2022). Collecting a stool (faeces) sample. York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Content edited by: Sidney Bailey Hoang.

Information consulted and verified by expert: Michael Anderson.