Hankerchiefs (Part 1)

The handkerchief is an incredible, multi-function laborer. I believe it to be one of today’s most practical, versatile and forgotten accessories. While shopping in a lovely vintage store I happened across some beautiful hankies that were very reasonably priced. As I was purchasing some the sales associate asked me “But what can you do with them”? Admittedly, I was very surprised to be asked this. Their many uses seemed obvious to me. I ended up responding with some vague answer about …..Oh, something. I couldn’t really respond. I was still in shock. However, the question has haunted me; it forced me to pause and think about my handkerchiefs. They have oh so many uses……

Of course many uses are fairly obvious.

1. Covering your mouth.

Not only does a handkerchief muffle coughs and sneezes but, it prevents the spread of germs that accompany illness. Likewise it can be used to avoid breathing in dust, foul odors and noxious fumes

2. Blowing noses.

Yes, I understand some people are adverse to this. Some people will even claim that it is an unhygienic practice. However, it seems that most people are under the impression that a hankie is used over and over again all week long. No. Used handkerchiefs are put in the dirty laundry. They are replaced with two clean ones every morning. (One for "personal" use and the other as a backup.) Most handkerchiefs are large enough for several uses without overlapping "icky". Besides, you’re not giving used hankies to anyone and they’re YOUR germs so, what are you afraid of?

3. Wiping/cleaning

Everything from burbling babies to the sweat from you brow. Handkerchiefs are handy to have around to clean yourself up with and dry yourself with.

4. Protection

A handkerchief is a useful item if you need to protect something. You can cushion and protect things such as fine jewelry, small ceramics, personal mementos, cash, clean clothes (Wrap smelly things such as socks and underwear in them to avoid contaminating clean clothes.), etc, etc. The list goes on…..

5. First aid.

A handkerchief can be used as a tourniquet. Soaked with cold water it can be placed on sunburned skin to ease discomfort. It can be used to apply pressure and stop small bleeding wounds.

6. Barriers

A larger handkerchief can be spread on a seat to keep your dress pants dry and clean. Similarly, they can be used as a napkin to protect your clothes from food spills.

7. To impress the ladies

Listen up gentlemen! The ability to produce a clean handkerchief for a lady in need will impress her beyond measure. It says “I’m prepared for any situation”. It is a gallant and chivalrous gesture that proves you are a gentleman.

But what else? Perhaps some of your handkerchiefs are just too pretty for these mundane tasks. Maybe, you just want to find a way to preserve and cherish a family heirloom. Or some of your hankies are stained, ripped, and worn. Rather than throw them out or hide them away, next week we will cover here some great ideas to rejuvenate and remake your vintage hankies.