Abstract: A cleaning process and water-based cleaning compositions effective for the removal of radionuclides, polychlorinated biphenyls, pesticides, herbicides, and heavy metals from surfaces of all types, more especially porous surfaces, surfaces that contain irregularities and microscopic voids into which contaminants may migrate and lodge thereby creating a substrate below the surface that must also be cleaned, and particulate surfaces. The cleaning blends and processes remove contaminants from porous and irregular surfaces to such a depth below the surface and into the substrate, and to such an extent, that the cleaned surface satisfies current regulations promulgated by the EPA and NRC relating to standards for decontamination. The process also allows sealing of cleaned surfaces, if desired, with an impermeable coating of a synthetic polymeric composition in order to retard subsequent migration of any residual contaminants to the surface.