This chapter presents the potential applications of some classes of innovative gels and highly viscous polymeric dispersions (HVPDs) as the most advanced tools for the surface cleaning of wood and canvas paintings. As in the case of traditional gels, the high viscosity and the consequent strong retention power of these systems limit the penetration of the embedded solvents into artistic porous matrices, minimizing the swelling of the paint layer and favouring good control of the cleaning action. The use of nanotechnology-based systems allows one to overcome the problems related to the complete removal of traditional gel residues left on the artistic substrate. The approaches highlighted in this chapter are based on the usage of nanostructured chemical gels, responsive systems and HVPDs. The formulation and application techniques of the systems described are exhaustively illustrated, in relation to real case studies.