Abstract: The invention relates to the use of dispersions containing polyvinyl acetate for cleaning purposes, for example for cleaning plaster floors, ceramic wall and floor linings, steps, window sills, gravestones, sculptures, and jointing materials. According to the invention, the dispersion containing polyvinyl acetate is applied to part or all of the surface to be cleaned. Once said layer has dried through, it can be removed from the surface to be cleaned in the form of a film. The dispersion forms a solid composite with the impurities, such that the impurities can also be removed with the film.