Modified Hummer's method for graphene oxide production and the potential use of functionalized graphene oxide in wastewater treatment processes are highlighted in this study. As novel adsorbents, graphene and its derivatives have gained more attention because of their remarkable physicochemical properties and unique molecular structure. A resonant delocalized electron system and several functional groups in graphene derivatives produce a range of adsorptive interactions with water contaminants. Consequently, it is a constant challenge to create efficient graphene composites by surface modification using several functional groups, polymers, or nanoparticles. The study also provides insight into new developments in the adsorption of organic contaminants and heavy metal ions from wastewater using functionalized graphene oxide. This article also describes the mechanism that controls the adsorption of heavy metals onto graphene oxide's surface.