A method and apparatus for controlling standby power of a washing machine, which is located in a remote place and can be remotely controlled by a user, is provided. The apparatus includes a communication unit, a power supply, and a controller. The communication unit performs data communication with a monitoring device that performs remote control and monitoring of the washing machine. The power supply supplies needed power to the washing machine. When a wash cycle is terminated or a power-off command is input during data communication with the monitoring device through the communication unit, the controller determines whether to supply main power to the washing machine according to a user setting and controls the power supply according to the determination. The user can set whether to supply main power when a wash cycle has been terminated or a power-off command has been input, achieving easy and efficient standby power control.