Crossword Genius

Cleaner: soft soap? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

flannel

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue might be a double definition.

'cleaner' is the first definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I can't see?

'soft soap?' is the second definition.
(both can mean flattery)

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for flannel that I've seen before include "Talk evasively; cloth" , "short trousers" , "Cloth; evasive talk" , "hedge" , "it comes in handy for washing" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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