A method and an apparatus for cleaning a rotating cylinder of a rotary printing machine. The apparatus having a washing device, including a washing brush, roller, or cloth, which can be engaged and disengaged from the rotating cylinder to be cleaned. The washing brush roller or cloth can be sprayed with a cleaning fluid (detergent, water) as well as both water. The method and apparatus ensure a controlled guiding of the detergent onto the outer surface of the rotating cylinder, which guarantees an effective cleaning and, at the end of the washing operation, leaves a relatively dry outer surface of the rotating cylinder. The cleaning method is intended to be suitable, in particular, for detergents having a biological base, for example, esters of vegetable oil. Effective cleaning and drying with minimal waste is achieved in that the washing device is controlled, depending on fixed angular settings, with a washing cycle or a drying cycle, giving due regard to the rotary speed and direction of rotation of the respective rotating cylinder to be cleaned. The apparatus for carrying out the cleaning method essentially comprises an angle generator which is connected to a controller which, in turn, is coupled to the washing device, specifically, the operating cylinders and the spraying nozzles.