Water-Resistant Grease:

What It Is and Where You Need It

Water is one of the biggest enemies of grease. Whether it's from rain, washdowns, or direct submersion, moisture can cause greases to wash out, emulsify, or fail—leaving your components exposed to corrosion, friction, and wear.

That’s where water-resistant grease comes in. Designed to stay put even in wet or submerged environments, it's essential for marine, food processing, and outdoor equipment. This guide breaks down what makes a grease water-resistant and which types perform best under pressure.

Why Standard Grease Fails in Wet Conditions

• Loses adhesion under high-pressure washdowns

• Absorbs moisture, which thins out the grease

• Promotes rust and oxidation

• Washout leads to dry surfaces and metal-on-metal contact

What Makes a Grease Water-Resistant?

Thickener Type

Some thickeners perform better in wet environments:

• Calcium Sulfonate: Excellent water resistance and corrosion protection

• Aluminum Complex: Strong resistance to water washout; often used in food-grade applications

• Lithium Complex: Decent water resistance, but not ideal for full washdown or immersion

Additives

• Rust and corrosion inhibitors

• Tacky agents for better adhesion

• Food-grade certifications (H1/NSF) where required

Best Applications for Water-Resistant Grease

• Marine and boat trailers

• Food and beverage plants (washdown zones)

• Forestry and agricultural equipment

• Outdoor construction machinery

• Water and wastewater utilities

Common Water-Resistant Grease Types

• Marine Grease (Blue): Typically calcium sulfonate or aluminum complex; formulated to resist saltwater and rust

• Food-Grade Grease: Aluminum complex thickened, water-washout resistant, NSF H1 approved

• Outdoor Equipment Grease: Often calcium sulfonate or lithium complex with tacky modifiers