Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method for carrying out a cleaning process for a cleaning device. An additional heating signal is provided for activating an auxiliary heater during a heating process and a steam generation process. The additional heating signal is to heat the auxiliary heater to a temperature suitable for evaporating water. A supply signal is provided to a supply device during the steam generation process, wherein the supply signal causes water to be supplied to the auxiliary heater to generate steam. A heat pump signal is provided for activating the heat pump during an air washing process. A fan signal is provided for activating the fan during the air washing process in order to propel the steam for cleaning the articles to be cleaned into the treatment chamber or drum and to propel the steam from the treatment chamber or drum into the evaporator for cleaning the steam.