Abstract: In order to improve adsorption performance of bentonite for Cu(Ⅱ) and Zn(Ⅱ), magnetic bentonite (MB) was organically modified with SCMC/CS complex produced by sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (SCMC) and chitosan (CS) via Schiff-base reaction. Cu(Ⅱ) and Zn(Ⅱ) adsorption performance and mechanism of SC/MB were investigated. The results show that the adsorption of Cu(Ⅱ) and Zn(Ⅱ) on SC/MB follows Langmuir model and the Langmuir adsorption capacities are 483 mg·g^-1 and 123 mg·g^-1, respectively. Meanwhile, the dynamic adsorption processes of Cu(Ⅱ) and Zn(Ⅱ) on SC/MB could be fitted by pseudo-second order model and the intra-particle diffusion model. —COOH, —NH₂ and —OH groups originated from SCMC/CS improved magnetic stability and adsorption performance. The adsorption interactions included complexion, ions exchange, micro-pore fixing and electrostatic attraction. Therefore, SC/MB is an economical and effective adsorbent for heavy metals removal from wastewaters.