How can I improve recoveries when using the QIAquick Kits?

Buffer PE did not contain ethanol

Ethanol must be added to Buffer PE (concentrate) before use. Repeat procedure with correctly prepared Buffer PE.

Inappropriate elution buffer

DNA will only be eluted efficiently in the presence of low-salt buffer (e.g., Buffer EB: 10 mM Tris·Cl, pH 8.5) or water. Elution efficiency is strongly dependent on the salt concentration and pH of the elution buffer. Contrary to adsorption, elution is most efficient under basic conditions and low salt concentrations. DNA is eluted with 50 or 30 µl of the provided Buffer EB (10 mM Tris·Cl, pH 8.5), or water. The maximum elution efficiency is achieved between pH 7.0 and 8.5. When using water to elute, make sure that the pH is within this range. In addition, DNA must be stored at –20°C when eluted with water since DNA may degrade in the absence of a buffering agent. Elution with TE (10 mM Tris·Cl, 1 mM EDTA, pH 8.0) is possible, but not recommended because EDTA may inhibit subsequent enzymatic reactions.

Elution buffer incorrectly dispensed

Add elution buffer to the center of the QIAquick membrane to ensure that the buffer completely covers the membrane. This is particularly important when using small elution volumes (30 µl).