A device (1) for cleaning an optical waveguide end (2) comprises a guide portion (3) for receiving the optical waveguide end (2) in a stable position and a rotatably mounted spool (4) onto which a flexible cleaning element (5) is wound. The guide portion (3) and the spool (4) are positioned relative to one another such that an optical waveguide end (2) received by the guide portion (3) is able to be pressed against the wound cleaning element (5). The cleaning element (5) is able to be unwound from the spool (4) such that different portions of the cleaning element (5) are able to be applied to the optical waveguide end (2) during unwinding.