The effect of Methocel (Dow methylcellulose) on the electrolyte stability of dilute synthetic latexes has been studied using a centrifuging technique in conjunction with turbidity measurements as a means of determining stability. Stability studies on dilute styrene latexes appear to conform to the general concepts associated with hydrophobic colloids. The effect of the addition of Methocel on the electrolyte stability of the dilute latex is similar to the sensitizing and protecting action exhibited by certain hydrophilic colloids on hydrophobic colloids. The protecting effect occurs at approximately theoretical surface coverage of the latex particles by a monolayer of Methocel. The electrolyte stability under these conditions is much less sensitive to small changes in electrolyte concentration. The molecular weight of the Methocel does not appreciably affect the amount necessary for the protecting action. With addition of emulsifier to the diluted latex, the amount of Methocel required for the protecting effect is decreased and precluded from adsorption when the particles are covered by emulsifier.