Human tear fluid collected in glass capillaries was absorbed in cellulose sponges. After various time intervals the recovery was measured for total protein, amylase (AMY), lysozyme (LZM), immunoglobulin A (IgA) and lactoferrin (LF). After one day storage at 4°C of moistened sponges of at least 92% recovery was observed. Storage for longer periods at 4°C up to seven days showed a decreasing recovery for total protein, AMY and IgA. Tear collection with sponges and storage of wet sponges for maximally one day at 4°C followed by centrifugation or storage of the fluid at-20°C are reliable ways of sample treatment.