This study reports the structural, morphological, and magnetic characterization of two magnetic samples, 8 nm maghemite nanoparticles (MCRES) and MCRES plus zeolite type 5A (MCZ0), the last one developed for Cd²⁺ remediation. Both materials were synthesized via eco-friendly methods using ferruginous precursors and Citrus reticulata peel extract. X-ray diffraction confirmed the presence of maghemite as the dominant magnetic crystalline phase in both samples. The MCRES sample did not exhibit additional diffraction peaks associated with residual precursor phases, whereas MCZ0 displayed improved crystallinity due to the presence of zeolite 5A. Transmission electron microscopy revealed distinct surface morphologies: MCRES featured 2D quasi-spherical nanoparticles, while MCZ0 showed better particle dispersion with more defined contours. Magnetic characterization through vibrating sample magnetometry demonstrated soft ferromagnetic behavior, with MCZ0 exhibiting a lesser saturation magnetization (M_s) of 23 emu g⁻¹ at 300 K than MCRES (M_s ~ 62 emu g⁻¹ at 300 K), suggesting efficient magnetic recovery potential. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of functional groups associated with natural organic residues in MCRES, while MCZ0 showed reduced organic content due to thermal treatment. These findings highlight that the MCZ0 composite, owing to its enhanced crystallinity, reduced organic interference, and superior magnetic response, is a promising candidate for sustainable pollutant removal of Cd²⁺ from aqueous systems. The study provides evidence that the magnetic hybrid significantly uptakes up to 99% for an initial concentration of 50 mg L⁻¹, pH=6, and adsorbent dose of 1.7 g L⁻¹.