17 Handy Handkerchief Uses [Infographic]

17 Handkerchief Uses

I’ve argued that the handkerchief is the most eco-friendly way to blow your nose, catch coughs, and snare sneezes.

I’ve also made the case that handkerchiefs are no more or less sanitary than paper tissues – and that HankyBooks offer the most protection of all.

And now, thanks our new infographic, I want to shed a light on just how handy the hanky can be.

I’ve collected 17 handkerchief uses but there are so many more. Having a hanky on hand can be a lifesaver in a multitude of ways.

Enough yabbering – enjoy the tips below and let me know what I missed.

17 handkerchief uses infographic

17 Handkerchief Uses

#1 – As a Hanky (duh)

The primary purpose of a handkerchief is as the eco-friendly choice for catching sneezes, coughs and runny noses. 

#2 – As a Sweatband

If it’s you running a marathon and not your nose, a 80s makeshift headband does the trick.

#3 – As a Snackbag

Grab a muffin or some biscuits and tie them up in a handy snackbag on the go!

#4 – As a Face Blotter

Mop your brow, the back of your neck, or dab the sweat off your makeup with a soft cloth that won’t ruin your foundation. 

#5 – As a Flyswatter

Using the ‘rat tail’ method, roll a man-size hanky and use it to precisely hit any pesky flies.

#6 – As a Water Filter

A hanky can be used as step one in filtering water. It will remove large objects like rocks, sticks, leaves, and bugs.

#7 – As a Face Mask

Whether you are trying to prevent getting sick or robbing a bank, a handkerchief makes a quick and easy mask in a pinch.

#8 – As a Tourniquet

If the robbery didn’t go as planned it can be used to tie around an injured limb to slow down blood loss.

#9 – As a Glasses Cleaner

No explanation needed – wearers of glasses understand the never-ending struggle with fingerprints and smears.

#10 – As a Washcloth

Sometimes there’s no time for a full on shower. Get your handkerchief wet and viola – a makeshift washcloth awaits.

#11 – As an Eye Shade

Enjoying a day out in the sun but no sunglasses or hat in sight. A hanky over your eyes will provide enough relief while you enjoy a siesta.

#12 – As a Headband

Keep your hair out of your face by wearing it as a headband or wrap it around you pony to dress up a bad hair day.

#13 – As a Finger Splint

When you need to support your damaged finger after a nasty accident, whip out your hanky to create a temporary finger splint.

#14 – As an Ice-pack

When life throws you a bump or sprain, wrap your hanky around a few handfuls of ice to reduce the swelling.

#15 – As a Teabag

Call it a hack if you will. Simply wrap and twist your tea leaves in a hanky and seep it in hot water like a tea bag! The queen would be proud.

#16 – As a Make-up Remover

If you want to remove your makeup, put water and some gentle lotion on your hanky and scrub your warpaint away.

#17 – Or Just Get a HankyBook

HankyBooks can do most of the above and so much more. In fact, here are 23 uses of the HankyBook – talk about versatile 😉

The Complete Handkerchief History

The humble handkerchief is tied into human history, culture, and literature more than you realize. The history of the hankie spans continents, traditions, and human development. From ritual, to fashion, first century to twenty first. Read on to explore the surprising ways that the handkerchief has featured from historical times, through the modern era, and…

Continue Reading The Complete Handkerchief History

The Handkerchief Resource – Tips, History, Where to Shop, etc.

What is a handkerchief? Take it away, Collins English Dictionary: A handkerchief is a small square piece of fabric which you use for blowing your nose. Okay, well that wasn’t particularly helpful, was it? Here’s how I’d define a handkerchief: The handkerchief is (typically) a square piece of hemmed cloth that is primarily used for personal hygiene, as a clothing accessory,…

Continue Reading The Handkerchief Resource – Tips, History, Where to Shop, etc.

Submit a Comment

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This