Abstract: The instant invention is directed to a leading edge cleaning device which comprises a concave internal surface which is complementary to an airfoil shaped body profile over a selected percentage of the airfoil chord measured from the leading edge. The complimentary shape of the leading edge cleaning device serves to maintain contact with the airfoil leading edge during the cleaning process that removes surface contamination that causes roughness that can result in undesired detachment of the air flowing around the airfoil during operation. Removing airfoil surface roughness and restoring a smooth airfoil surface by cleaning spanwise along the leading edge over a selected percentage of the airfoil chord measured from the leading edge with the instant invention provides for increased overall performance, reduced drag and increased effective lift through restoring laminar flow around the leading edge of the airfoil as compared to an airfoil with surface roughness.