my Windrose cotton strop seemed very harsh the way it arrived. It was very stiff and I didn’t like the sound of it on the blade. I read that vinegar and bicarbonate of soda soften cotton so I soaked and washed the strop, before soaking it for an hour or so in vinegar and bicarbonate solution.
I use mine after shaving to clean the blade and it’s much softer and less harsh sounding now.
I use mine after shaving to clean the blade and it’s much softer and less harsh sounding now.