A method of cleaning an embossing roll used in an embossing process. The method includes steps of passing a paper web between a pair of embossing rolls and preventing or cleaning deposits from the surface of at least one embossing roll. Pressurized air is forced through an air nozzle having an elongated narrow outlet that directs the pressurized air as an air knife against the patterned surface of the embossing roll after the patterned surface rotates out of contact with the web. The air knife extends an embossing width of the embossing roll. A lubricant or solvent may be mixed with the pressurized air.