Iron oxides with different flower-like nanostructures have been successfully synthesized by decomposition of the iron alkoxide precursor at different conditions. The effect of reaction time (reflux time) and the calcination conditions on the morphology and composition of prepared iron oxides were investigated. Characterizations of the prepared powders were performed by scanning electronic microscopy, X-ray diffraction and N-2 adsorption/desorption isotherm. The results show that the prepared nanostructured iron oxides can be used as adsorbent for rapid removal of dye pollutants from water. (C) 2014 The Society of Powder Technology Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. and The Society of Powder Technology Japan. All rights reserved.