An embossing roll cleaning apparatus is provided. The cleaning apparatus includes a nozzle having an air inlet and an elongated narrow outlet that extends an embossing width of the embossing roll. A source of compressed air is connected to the air inlet of the nozzle. The outlet of the nozzle directs the pressured air as an air knife against the surface of the embossing roll to dislodge deposits stuck to the surface of the embossing roll.