Over the years, one of the main considerations for good image stability of black and white silver photographic images has been the level of residual thiosulfate ion as determined by the methods described in ANSI PH4.8-1985. Other tests have also included the stability of the silver image obtained in the dark at elevated temperature and humidity (ANSI PH1.41-1984 and ANSI PH1. 28-1984). Recently, additional tests have been conducted in the presence of various oxidizing gases which are common air pollutants, and tests have also been carried out to measure image stability at high illumination levels. These test results indicate that for some products increased resistance to degradation of the silver image by certain oxidizing gases and light can be provided by treatment with toning solutions. In this paper, wash procedures and washing aids are discussed as well as the postprocessing toning techniques as they affect image stability. -- AATA