Abstract The intercalation reaction of hydrated K + ions into the layered structure of 2H-NbS 2 was studied using in situ X-ray diffraction. A structurally complex intercalation mechanism was observed showing several highly one-dimensionally disordered intercalated phases. A quantitative modelling of the disorder in K x (H 2 O) y NbS 2 is presented allowing a complete understanding of the intercalation mechanism.