Catalysts Cu/TiO2 nanosheets (Cu/TNS) and Cu/H2Ti3O7 nanorods (Cu/TNR) were successfully synthesized and applied for selective oxidation of toluene. Characterization were employed for the catalysts’ structural, morphological, and textural properties. Cu/TNS exhibited an anatase, while Cu/TNR had a titanate structure. Cu nanoparticles were uniformly dispersed on the surface of both catalysts. Cu impregnation resulted in a decrease in particle size for nanosheets but an increase in particle size for nanorods. The catalytic activity was assessed through toluene oxidation with H2O2. Catalytic performance evaluation showed that Cu/TNS exhibited the higher toluene conversion (63.9%) and benzaldehyde selectivity (30.0%), while Cu/TNR displayed lower conversion (43.4%) but higher selectivity (17.0%). The enhanced performance of Cu/TNS is attributed to their larger surface area, smaller particle size, and higher acidity compared to nanorods. These findings highlight the potential of Cu/TiO2 catalysts for selective toluene oxidation, with nanosheets being a promising candidate for optimizing conversion and selectivity. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.