A specimen container is a sterile, single-use vessel for collecting and transporting a biological sample; a urine collection container is a non-sterile vessel sized for a timed or volume-based urine sample. The two are not interchangeable: sterility, cap type and volume differ by intended test.
| Specimen container (sterile) | Urine collection container | |
|---|---|---|
| Sterility | Sterile (individually wrapped) | Non-sterile |
| Typical volume | 90 mL / 120 mL | 120 mL / 4 oz / 3,000 mL (24-hour collection) |
| Cap | Screw cap with a leak-proof seal | Screw cap (some with an integrated cup) |
| Intended use | Microbiology culture, swab elution, body-fluid transport | Routine urinalysis, 24-hour collection |
| Suitable for culture | Yes | No — non-sterile; would contaminate the culture |
Which one each test requires
- Culture / microbiology — a sterile container is required.
- Routine urinalysis / quantitative urine — a urine collection container is sufficient.
- 24-hour collection — a 3,000 mL capped collection container, with preservative per the laboratory's instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a urine cup for a microbiology sample?
No — urine cups are non-sterile and will contaminate a culture.
What is the difference between a specimen container and a urine collection container?
Sterility, cap design and volume; see the table above.
How much urine does a 24-hour collection require to be stored in?
A dedicated 3,000 mL collection container, per the laboratory's instructions.