Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosed technology are directed to consumable components for cytology, which include a sample vial. In an example, the consumable sample vial is designed to receive a sample volume between 10 and 750 ?L, receive a buffer solution, and enable mixing of the sample with the buffer solution prior to allowing a user to deposit some amount of the mixture into another consumable for subsequent processing, e.g., cell deposition and staining. The remaining mixture may be securely stored and transported using the sample vial. The sample vial is manufactured from a transparent and flexible material that allows the user to observe the fluid and mixture levels in the vial and squeeze to dispense the mixture.