SEATTLE - Seattle's iconic Space Needle is getting a much needed hosing down, thanks to the cleaning specialists Karcher GmbH & Co. KG.

Raw: Space Needle gets a cleaning

Larger screen

Officials say the Needle, which hasn't received a professional cleaning since its 1962 World's Fair opening, is expected to be squeaky clean in five to eight weeks' time, assuming the weather cooperates.

A team of three rappelling professionals will descend from the top of the 605-foot structure, using only very hot water shot from high-pressure washers as they go. They will work from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. each day so the Needle can remain open to visitors for the duration of the cleaning.

Karcher, which cleaned Mount Rushmore in 2005, is donating its services in the "green cleaning."

"The process is one-hundred percent green," says Frank Schad, press officer for Karcher. "The cleaning process, accomplished with very hot water and high-pressure washers, replaces the need for detergents and ensures that the Space Needle is restored to its shining glory when we're done."

The Space Needle receives about 1.3 million visitors each year.

SkyKING

A team of three rappelling professionals will descend from the top of the 605-foot structure, using only very hot water shot from high-pressure washers as they go.