Devices are used for fixing or attaching at least one packing or dressing to a cylinder. A retaining element is located in a channel in the cylinder and retains one end of the dressing or packing. A spring element is also located in the channel and cooperates with the retaining element to exert a required clamping force on the end of the packing or dressing. The retaining element is pivotably supported in the base of the channel and is fixed in the base, while in its clamping portion, by the spring element. This insures that the retaining element will not be inadvertently unclamped from the channel.