Discoloration

The sample must be collected fresh and stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Even then it must be used within twenty-four hours. If you intend to store the sample for longer, then it is appropriate to freeze the sample as urine darkens with time.

Odor

The smell of stale urine is unmistakable and if the sample has been incorrectly stored – in a dirty container or at the incorrect temperature – the testing authorities will disqualify the sample.

Bacteria

If the sample is not for immediate submission then it should be stored at a temperature of approximately 39F in the refrigerator for up to a day or frozen in the freezer otherwise the bacteria in the sample will multiply affecting test results.

Temperature

The sample must be at the appropriate temperature at the time of submission which requires that it be heated to roughly body temperature within the 96F to 99F range. If the sample is too cold then using hand warmers a few minutes before submission can bring the sample into the correct temperature range.

Sterile Containers

Vacuum sealed plastic bags or sterile glass jars like the ones used for baby food are ideal containers to store samples. The sterility is important to ensure that bacteria do not proliferate in the sample.