an apparatus is described for cleaning papermaking felt by applying a low concentration of a cleaning solution through the oscillating needle nozzles . the detergent is applied intermittently while paper is being manufactured . each cleaning period lasts for at least the length of time required for the nozzles to cover the entire surface of the felt , and preferably twice that period of time . the application of cleaning solution is then discontinued for a period of time . this cycle is repeated continuously as the paper is being manufactured . the apparatus includes a first cleaning chemical reservoir , a second cleaning chemical reservoir , a high pressure pump coupled to the first and second reservoirs , and a control unit having programming for selectively injecting the chemicals .