Embodiments provide a system and method for cleaning inkjet cartridges. The system includes a fixture configured to mount an inkjet cartridge where a printhead of the inkjet cartridge is mounted to a cleaning plate. The cleaning plate includes one or more orifices connected to a vacuum source and one or more orifices connected to a wash solution source. The vacuum source can be used to extract ink from within the cartridge through nozzles in the printhead. The wash solution source can supply a pressurized wash solution through the nozzles of the printhead. The vacuum source can also be use to extract the wash solution from within the cartridge through the nozzles.