Several different materials and methods are used for cleaning and removing dirt from paintings in the field of conservation. So far, limited scientific investigations have been conducted on foam cleaning because of little interest. This study presents the first fundamental investigations on the use of aqueous, surfactant-containing foams as a method for cleaning painting surfaces. The primary aim of the study was to determine the extent to which foams are able to reduce the penetration of cleaning solutions into substrates. Another aspect was to reduce mechanical stress to the surface during the cleaning process. A further objective was to diminish the amount of surfactants required to avoid unwanted residues. Water-based foams were compared to common cleaning methods such as cotton swabs and solvent gels. First of all, a search for appropriate formulations that would result in durable foams was carried out since they do not exist on the market.