Abstract: A cleaning device for an image-carrying member includes an elastic blade having a proximal end fixed to a holder and a terminal end held against the image-carrying member for removing toner from the image-carrying member upon movement of the image-carrying member. The terminal end of the blade flexes to extend forward in the direction of movement of the image-carrying member at an angle of .alpha. to a line tangential to a surface of the image carrying member rearward of a contact point between the terminal end of the blade and the image carrying member with respect to the direction of movement thereof. The blade has an axis passing through the proximal end of the blade and extending at an angle of .theta. to the tangent rearward of the contact point with respect to the direction of movement of the image-carrying member. The angles .alpha. and .theta. are selected to meet the following relationship:.theta.>90.degree.>.alpha..