A cleaning device is used in an image forming apparatus to remove residual attachments including toner and paper powders from a surface of a movable intermediate transfer element onto which toner images are transferred from an image carrier. The cleaning device includes a cleaning brush that contacts the surface of the intermediate transfer element to apply a bias having a predetermined polarity to the toner adhered onto the surface of the intermediate transfer element so as to make uniform a polarity of the toner. The cleaning device further includes a pressing member that contacts the surface of the intermediate transfer element with a predetermined pressure. The pressing member is disposed at a position upstream of the cleaning brush in a direction of movement of the intermediate transfer element.