Abstract: Apparatus for cleaning of a magnetic read head in an electronic lock assembly includes an elongated, generally flat plate member adapted for insertion into a key card slot in the lock. An absorbent cleaning strip extends lengthwise over the flat plate member and is aligned so as to rub over the magnetic read head in the lock assembly when the plate member is inserted into the lock. The portion of the cleaning strip which extends over the plate member is only a minor portion of the total length of the strip, the remaining portion of the strip being stored in a housing or container attached to the plate member. The strip is advanced from the housing over the plate member each time the lock is desired to be cleaned. The strip is preferably an absorbent material and is saturated in a solvent within the storage housing. The housing further includes a take-up reel for collecting used portions of the strip material.