Abstract Janus micromotors are self-propelled micro and nanoscale devices that combine different properties within a single entity. Material aspects are key factors influencing the locomotion and application of Janus micromotors. This timely review will provide a comprehensive overview of different materials and fabrication methods used for its preparation. Emerging applications of Janus swimmers for environmental water treatment, drug delivery, biodetoxification and analytical sensing will be also described. Prospects of this rapidly developing field will be given in the conclusions.