a method is provided for removing organic contaminants from an aqueous composition contaminated therewith . the method comprises passing the composition through a first column packed with an organoclay , to adsorb substantial quantities of high molecular weight and / or emulsified components of said organic contaminants , and passing the effluent from said first column through further separating means for separating substantial quantities of the low molecular components of said organic contaminants which remain in the effluent from said first column , and recovering the effluent from said separate means as product .