A nozzle protecting device 30 of an ink jet type recording apparatus has a cap 46 which covers nozzles of a recording head and a cap support member 47 which is connected to the cap 45 via a spring member 80. The distance between the cap 46 and the cap support member 47 can be changed by elastic deformation of the spring member 80. A vent hole 54 is formed in the cap 46. A valve seat 56 which covers the terminal portion of the vent hole 54 is provided. A valve body 58 is rotatably attached to the lower portion of the cap 46. The valve body 58 selectively abuts on and parts from the valve seat 56 in accordance with the distance between the cap 46 and the cap support member 47. As a result, the inside of the cap 46 is opened and closed to air via the vent hole 54.