An improved hook and loop fastener system enables fastening to each other of two objects each provided solely with respective pluralities of flexible loops via an intermediate connection element that has two faces each provided solely with flexible hooks and is sandwiched between the two objects. The intermediate connection element can be easily removed and washed separately as needed, for example when either or both of the objects are to be washed with other fibrous objects, to eliminate the likelihood of the hooks inadvertently engaging with and ripping off any ambient fibers that could then clog the hooks and diminish their future performance. Selective retention of the intermediate connection element in engagement with only one of the two objects leaves the other object free of hooks and thus safely contactable by ambient objects that contain frangible fibers.