An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member, an intermediary transfer member receiving the toner image on the image bearing member, a transfer unit for transferring the toner image from the intermediary transfer member onto a sheet, and a rotatable cleaner for cleaning the intermediary transfer member. The cleaner is downstream of the transfer unit with respect to a sheet conveyance direction and rotates in an opposite direction to the intermediary transfer member during image formation. The cleaner separates a sheet wound about the intermediary transfer member from the intermediary transfer member.