Found in an Attic: This Antique Device Has a Surprising Purpose!
October 14, 2024
source: Wikipedia
A mangle, or box mangle, is a traditional laundry tool designed to press and smooth linens such as sheets, tablecloths, and other household textiles. Dating back to the 17th century, mangles were an essential item in many homes before the advent of electric irons and dryers. The version found in the attic of this old country house consists of a large box that sits atop rollers and is used to flatten damp fabrics.
The top part of the mangle is an open container, designed to hold heavy stones or weights, which press down on the fabric below. The fabric would be wrapped around rollers or placed flat underneath the box, and by turning a crank, the box would roll back and forth, pressing the material. This gentle but firm pressure resulted in smooth, crisp linens, an important feature for well-kept households of the time.
The lower section of the mangle in the image likely serves as a stand, often with storage compartments or small doors for storing laundry-related items like cloths or tools. Mangles like these were not just functional but also robustly built from heavy wood, making them a substantial piece of furniture in the household.
The box mangle gradually fell out of common use as electric irons and washing machines took over household chores. However, today, these mangles are admired for their craftsmanship and historical significance, often becoming decorative items in antique collections or vintage-inspired homes. They remind us of a time when domestic chores required manual labor and meticulous care, and a well-pressed tablecloth or sheet was a point of pride for homemakers.