In Western use, mostly for blowing one’s nose or wiping sweat off one’s brow. Sometimes in a cinematic manner which evokes refinement in the course of labor. Might also be used to blot tears, either one’s own or to give to someone who has tears but no hanky.
In East Asian use, as a hand towel, since many public bathrooms do not provision paper towels. Very useful in the USA as well, since many restrooms are moving towards air dryers of varying quality. But a handkerchief is always on-hand and can also reduce time spent in the restroom.
I personally keep two handkerchiefs on me, for both the Western and East Asian use-cases.
Thanks for the detailed response. I carry a bandana outdoors sometimes for an impromptu dish towel, prefiltering water, head covering, dust mask, etc. Super useful item. So I suppose a handkerchief is kind of an urban bandana.
What are handkerchiefs used for?
In Western use, mostly for blowing one’s nose or wiping sweat off one’s brow. Sometimes in a cinematic manner which evokes refinement in the course of labor. Might also be used to blot tears, either one’s own or to give to someone who has tears but no hanky.
In East Asian use, as a hand towel, since many public bathrooms do not provision paper towels. Very useful in the USA as well, since many restrooms are moving towards air dryers of varying quality. But a handkerchief is always on-hand and can also reduce time spent in the restroom.
I personally keep two handkerchiefs on me, for both the Western and East Asian use-cases.
Yoy can also wear them on your head.
Thanks for the detailed response. I carry a bandana outdoors sometimes for an impromptu dish towel, prefiltering water, head covering, dust mask, etc. Super useful item. So I suppose a handkerchief is kind of an urban bandana.