A purification apparatus (1), kit and method for purifying DNA, RNA, proteins, antigens, antibodies and cells. The apparatus (1) has a wand (2) and a reservoir tube (6). The wand (2) is made of a cap (5), a sample collection assembly (4) and an elongated shaft (3) connecting the cap (5) to the sample collection assembly (4). The sample collection (4) assembly has a series of microstructures (13) on its surface, or microparticles enclosed within it for increasing the surface area of the sample collection assembly (4). The increased surface area permits maximum exposure to and binding of target molecules thereto. The reservoir tube (6) associated with the wand (2) has one end defining an opening and a second end that is closed and preferably cone or cylindrical shaped. The cap (5) of the wand securely and sealingly fastens to the open end of the reservoir tube (6) with the shaft (3) and the sample collection (4) assembly fitting easily inside the reservoir tube.