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
#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 😉