An apparatus for depositing an array of spots on a receiving surface includes a fluid source, a deposit device that includes a drop-carrying surface, and a cleaning device. The deposit device and a fluid source are cooperatively arranged to deposit a spot(usually created by a drop) on a receiving surface. The cleaning device is constructed and arranged to clean the drop-carrying surface by employing a flow of cleaning fluid or another cleaning matter such as small particles the flow being arranged to prevent contaminating back flow.