The adsorption and desorption behaviour of non-ionic (Triton X-305) and anionic (cetylpyridinium chloride) surfactants at various oxides (alumina, silica gel, titania, tin dioxide) have been investigated by means of several calorimetric methods (immersion calorimetry, solution calorimetry, liquid-flow adsorption calorimetry). It is shown that the application of different calorimetric methods, which are sensitive to various partial processes of adsorption, is able to provide new insights into the mechanism and thermodynamics of such a complex process as surfactant adsorption onto solid surfaces.