Abstract: A dry method and apparatus for the removal of at least a portion of a removable layer of adhering impurity substances from at least one surface of an essentially electrode used in the electrolytic deposition of metals, which method comprises contacting the electrode surface with at least one cleaning means consisting of a rotating member which has attached thereto a plurality of radially projecting flexible fingers having a length to diameter ratio of about 3.56:1 and wherein the axis of rotation of the member is substantially parallel to the surface of the electrode. The rotating member may be cylindrical member having fingers attached thereto, or may be a shaft having a number of arms radially attached, the arms having attached thereto the fingers which contact the electrode. The method and apparatus of this invention afford better control of the amount of material removed, minimize electrode surface damage, and eliminate the need to process water containing removed solids.