The adsorption characteristics of heavy metal ions (lead, copper and cadmium) from aqueous solution by sawdust were investigated. Batch adsorption experiments under different temperatures, solution pH values, particle sizes of sawdust, adsorption times and initial solution concentration were conducted. The adsorption kinetic and isotherm characteristics were also investigated. Results show that: with increasing adsorption time, the amount of heavy metal ions adsorbed by sawdust increased and then reached equilibrium situation;the amount of heavy metal ions adsorbed by sawdust increased with the increase of temperature, solution pH value and initial solution concentration, while decreased with increasing particle size of sawdust;the sequence of absorption capacity was as follows: lead>copper>cadmium;the adsorption process of heavy metal ions by sawdust followed the Pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model very well. Sawdust is a potential adsorbent for waste water treatment.