Abstract: The present invention provides in one aspect, a novel method for recovering an organic solute from a predominantly aqueous solution. In one embodiment, the solution is contacted with a dry, non-conditioned sorbent medium held by a supporting structure, whereby the solute is absorbed onto the matrix by hydrophobic interactions. A solvent is then passed through the medium, thereby desorbing the solute. Finally, the solute is collected. A further aspect of the invention provides water-wettable sorbent materials for use in solid phase extractions. Embodiments of polymer-based and silica-based sorbent materials are disclosed.