Some current research, in the authors' laboratories and elsewhere, on the effects of solvent and aqueous-based cleaning systems is reviewed. Work continues on the effects of effects of solvents on oil paint films, and the interpretation of these effects in terms of solvent properties. The application of varnish is considered in terms of the exposure of the paint film to the solvents used to dissolve and apply the varnish. The varnish and solvent solution is seen to be able to act as a poultice in leaching soluble components from the paint film. The action and effects of some aqueous and gelled systems are also considered. Initial data indicate that soaps and gels behave in some ways as solvents do, both in the time frame of their action and the amounts of materials which they can remove from paint films to which they are applied.