What is the origin of the idiom "come out in the wash" and when to use it?

The idiom "come out in the wash" finds its roots in the historical practice of hand-washing and laundering clothes. When garments were washed by hand, some stains or imperfections were not immediately visible but would become apparent after the clothes had been dried and ironed. In a figurative sense, this phrase is used to describe a situation that will eventually resolve on its own, often without the need for active intervention, after a period of time has passed.