Abstract: A cleaning apparatus and method for cleaning components of automated milking apparatus which includes milking machines which are automatically connected and disconnected to the animals being milked. A rinsing liquid supply line supplies water through a protecting device and a heat exchanger to a junction which has a line leading to a rinsing liquid reservoir which includes a heating element to provide heat cleaning if desired, a line connected to a metering device to introduce an additive such as an alkali or acid, a branch line for rinsing components of the automatic milking machine such as teat cups and a branch line leading through non-return devices to a rinsing liquid buffer reservoir which can be pressurized by air pressure and used for cleansing components such as the teat cups and sensor on a robot arm and the device for cleaning the udders and teats of the animals being milked.