Manuscript discussed the role of different parameters for the metal ions removal from industrial waste water. The metal ions removal from waste water is essential to decrease the diseases and environmental hazards caused by heavy metal ions. The different parameters of adsorption including the effect of contact time, dose, pH, temperature, kinetics and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller analysis is discussed. This manuscript focuses on biosorption of metal ions, competitive adsorption of metal ions and ligand based adsorption of metal ions. This manuscript also focuses on the commercially available adsorbent used in the removal of metal ions efficiently including polymeric adsorbent and activated carbon.