This paper will explore current and developing approaches used in the cleaning of textile and costume objects. These emerging techniques employ poultices and gels to deliver specialized cleaning solutions locally to a textile’s surface, enabling stains to be addressed individually. We will define these materials and discuss their working properties. The advantages and limitations of each will be evaluated, and potential applications will be suggested. We will also discuss how these application methods can be paired with carefully designed cleaning solutions that may include enzymes, chelators, or solvents, according to the nature of the stain. Recent case studies for xanthan gum, agarose gel, methylcellulose, and cellulose pulp will be presented, and we will indicate how each material is prepared and applied. Opportunities for future research will also be considered.
