What is the origin of the idiom "come clean" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "come clean" is rooted in the metaphorical idea of cleaning oneself from guilt or wrongdoing. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century and is commonly associated with confession or admission of the truth. This idiomatic phrase is now used to emphasize the act of confessing or revealing the truth and seeking to clear one's conscience or take responsibility for one's actions.