This research was aimed to utilize natural kaolin for zeolite synthesis by hydrothermal method for removal of hard metals. The use of low cost materials in zeolite synthesis becomes an area of important interest in water softening, which plays a great role. The synthesis of zeolite is suitable for industrial applications, mainly as cat ion exchange process. The natural kaolin is one of the oldest raw materials which is abundant and highly available in Ethiopia. The synthesis of zeolite from locally available natural kaolin clay sourced in Ethiopia has been attempted.