In this work, new water-soluble polypyrrole-sulfonated melamine formaldehyde nanocomposites (PPy-SMF NCs) were first synthesized by one-step insitu polymerization of pyrrole with FeCl 3 in the presence of various mole ratios of sulfonated melamine formaldehyde (SMF). The characterization of the PPy-SMF NCs was investigated via ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and conductivity measurements. The resulting PPy-SMF NCs were proved to improve the solubility, electrical properties, and thermal stability. The anticorrosion performance of PPy-SMF NCs on 316 L stainless steel (316 L SS) was examined using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization, and weight-loss method. The result showed that the PPy-SMF NCs acts as a mixed-type inhibitor, as well as a protective layer to 316 L SS against corrosion in 3.5% NaCl solution. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm was well fitted and suitable to explain the adsorption behavior of the PPy-SMF NCs on 316 L SS surface. The inhibition efficiency of PPy-SMF NCs is 99% by the weight-loss method which could be attributed to the protective layer formed on 316 L SS surface by the adsorption of PPy-SMF NCs.