New water soluble {CpRu} complexes with formula [RuCpX(L-1)(L-2)](n+) (L-1, L-2 = PPh3, mTPPMS (meta-triphenyphsphine monosulfonate), PTA (1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphaadamantane), mPTA (N-methyl-1,3,5-triaza-7phosphaadamantane)) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analytical, IR and NMR spectroscopy. Complexes [RuC1Cp(PPh3)(mPTA)](OTf) (3.OTf), [RuCpI(PPh3)(mPTA)]center dot 2I center dot EtOH (5 center dot I center dot EtOH) and [RuCpBr(PTA)(2)]center dot 3.5H(2)O (6.3.5H(2)O) were also characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The NMR spectra of the complexes are in agreement with their composition, indicating also that their solid state structure is maintained in solution. These results are integrated in a thorough overview of preparative routes, structural composition and solubility of {CpRu} complexes containing water-soluble phosphanes. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.