A handheld nozzle cleaning device includes a cylinder and piston disposed within the cylinder. The piston is movable between a latched position, in which air is compressed, and an unlatched position, in which air is drawn into the cylinder. The handheld nozzle cleaning device also includes a valve and a nozzle disposed at one end of the cylinder. Manual operation of the piston, defined by linear movement of the piston in a first direction, both releases the piston from the latched position and draws air into the cylinder. The compressed air flows out of the cylinder through the nozzle when the valve is opened. Also, manual operation of the piston in a second direction opposite the first direction both compresses air within the cylinder and secures the piston in the latched position.