Washboard

The washboard (also Wäscheruffel or laundry lumber ) is a tool for washing clothes in the washing by hand. Especially before the invention of the washing machine, it was very common and it is still used in regions where the washing machine is not widespread, such as in India or Africa.

The washboard is usually about 30 to 40 inches tall. The surface is designed such that a regular pattern of projections and depressions is formed on which the wet, washing cloth is rubbed in order to solve the contamination.

Musical instrument

In music, the washboard is used as a rhythm instrument. Here, the player hangs the board in front of the chest and hits or rubs with sticks, jazz broom or by hand. While playing with the hand thimbles are often drawn on the individual fingers. It can then be drummed with her ​​fingers and swirled. Applies this percussion instrument in musical styles such as in skiffle, Dixieland and zydeco, but also in rock'n'roll or rockabilly.

Washboard pattern

Patterns resembling the cross- groove structure of a washboard, called washboard pattern. Examples are the six pack, the washboard slope or ripple marks on the beach.