How to Take a Stool Sample for the NHS (Step by Step)
Collecting a poo sample is simpler than it sounds. Here is a step-by-step guide to doing it cleanly, how much you need and how quickly to hand it in.
Updated · 5 min read
To take a stool sample, label the container, pee first if you need to, catch your poo in something clean so it does not touch the toilet water, then use the scoop or a disposable spoon to fill the container about a third full. Screw the lid on, wash your hands and hand the sample in as soon as possible, ideally the same day.
Why you might be asked for a sample
A doctor may ask for a poo (stool) sample to check symptoms such as diarrhoea, blood in your poo, or tummy pain or discomfort. The sample is tested in a laboratory, for example for infection, inflammation or blood.
Always use the container and instructions your GP surgery or hospital gives you. Different tests can have slightly different instructions, and theirs come first.
What you need to collect a sample
- the sample container you were given, often with a small scoop in the lid
- something clean to catch the poo, such as a clean disposable container (an empty ice cream tub works), or newspaper or clingfilm laid over the toilet rim
- a disposable spoon, if your container does not have a scoop
- a plastic bag for rubbish
- soap and warm water
Step by step
These steps follow the guidance from NHS Highland.
1. Label the container
Write your name, date of birth and the date on the label before you start. A sample without the right details may not be tested.
2. Pee first
If you need to pee, do it before collecting the sample, so there is no urine mixed with the poo.
3. Set up something to catch the poo
Put a clean disposable container in the toilet, or spread newspaper or clingfilm over the rim of the toilet seat so it dips slightly in the middle.
4. Do a poo
Make sure the poo does not touch the inside of the toilet bowl or the water. Water and cleaning chemicals in the toilet can affect the results.
5. Fill the container
Use the scoop or a disposable spoon to put some poo into the container. Fill it about a third full. You do not need to fill it completely, and overfilling can cause leaks.
If any of the poo is watery or has blood or slime in it, include some of that part.
6. Close it and clean up
Screw the lid on tightly. Flush the rest of the poo away, put everything you used into a plastic bag, tie it up and put it in the bin. Wash your hands well with soap and warm running water.
Handing in the sample
Your GP or hospital will tell you when and how to return it. Usually you hand it in or post it in a prepaid envelope as soon as possible, because it needs to be tested soon after collection.
NHS Highland advises that if you cannot hand in or post the sample within 24 hours, you should talk to your doctor about what to do. Check whether your surgery has a cut-off time for samples each day, as many send them to the laboratory once a day.
If you need to keep the sample for a short time before handing it in, ask your surgery whether it should be kept in the fridge. Put it in a sealed bag first.
Tips if it is difficult
- Diarrhoea: a clean disposable container in the toilet is easier than clingfilm. Collect as soon as possible once you have been asked.
- Constipation: it may take a day or two. Do not take laxatives unless a healthcare professional has said it is fine.
- Children in nappies: ask your GP surgery or health visitor how to collect a sample from a nappy, as the method differs.
Bowel cancer screening is different
If you are aged 50 to 74 in England, you may receive a bowel cancer screening kit by post every 2 years. This uses a different home test, called a FIT kit, which comes with its own instructions and a return envelope. Follow the instructions in that kit rather than the steps above.
Results
Your GP surgery or hospital will tell you how you will get the results. Some tests are back within a few days, while others take longer. If your symptoms get worse while you wait, contact your GP surgery or 111.
If you were asked for a sample before a hospital appointment, our guide to what happens at a gastroenterology appointment explains what to expect.
More about bowel cancer screening kits
The NHS website explains that if you are aged 50 to 74 and registered with a GP in England, you are sent a bowel cancer screening kit automatically every 2 years. Depending on when you turned 50, your first kit arrives at 50, 52 or 54. If you are 75 or over, you can ask for a kit by calling the bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 6060.
The helpline can also help if you think you are eligible but have not received a kit, or if you want to stop being invited. Screening is your choice.
Screening kits are for people without symptoms. If you have symptoms such as blood in your poo, a change in your bowel habits or tummy pain, see your GP even if you have recently done a screening test.
Stool sample questions
Can I collect the sample from the toilet water?
No. Poo that has touched the toilet water can give inaccurate results.
Do I need the whole poo?
No. A third of the container is enough.
Can I collect it the night before?
Ask your surgery. Samples should be tested as soon as possible after collection.
Sources
Checked on 14 October 2026:
- NHS Highland: How to collect a sample of poo (stool sample)
- NHS website: Bowel cancer screening
This guide explains the general rules for staff in England using 2026/27 figures. It is not financial advice. Your employer, payslip or NHS Pensions statement has the final word on your own pay.