Soft soap or its applicator? (7)
I believe the answer is:
flannel
'soft soap' is the definition.
(both can mean flattery)
I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for flannel that I've seen before include "hedge" , "short trousers" , "nonsense" , "type of fabric" , "Cloth used to wash the face and body" .)