Methods for isolating nucleic acids using a solid phase having alkylene sulfonyl-containing compounds on its surface are provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises: contacting a sample containing nucleic acids with a solid phase having alkylene sulfonyl-containing compounds on its surface in a first aqueous solution to provide a loaded solid phase; washing the loaded solid phase with a second aqueous solution to provide a washed solid phase; and eluting the washed solid phase with a low ionic strength liquid to obtain the isolated nucleic acids. Kits containing a solid phase having alkylene sulfonyl-containing compounds also are provided.