A method of cleaning a drying wire of a paper making machine using at least one pressurized water jet directed against the surface of the wire by a nozzle. The nozzle is supplied with water under a pressure higher than normal water pipe pressure, preferably a pressure of 430-1300 psi. The increased pressure of the water jet reduces the amount of water remaining in the wire due to increased water flow passing through the wire. Consequently the increased pressure of the water jet makes it possible to clean the drying wire during production and web formation.