What is a "washboard?

A washboard is a simple household tool used for washing clothes. It consists of a rectangular wooden frame with a series of ridges or corrugations on the top. To use a washboard, clothes are wetted and rubbed against the ridges, which creates friction that helps to remove dirt and grime. Washboards were widely used in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in rural areas and during periods of economic hardship when washing machines were not widely available or affordable. While washboards are less commonly used today due to the widespread availability of modern washing machines, they are still popular with some people for their simplicity and nostalgic appeal.