Handkerchief facts for kids

A soft Linen handkerchief

A handkerchief, also known as a hanky, is a small piece of thin fabric. People usually carry it in their pocket or purse. It was first created for personal hygiene, like wiping your hands or face, or blowing your nose.

Sometimes, a handkerchief is also used just for decoration, especially in a suit pocket.

What Handkerchiefs Are Made Of

The material a handkerchief is made from can tell you a bit about the person using it. This isn't just because some materials cost more. Some fabrics are also better at absorbing liquids, which is important if you use a handkerchief for more than just style.

Handkerchiefs can be made from different materials, including:

• Cotton
• A mix of cotton and synthetic fabric
• Synthetic fabric
• Silk
• Linen

Where the Word Came From

Before the word "handkerchief" became common, people just used the word "kerchief." This word actually comes from two old French words: couvrir, which means "to cover," and chef, which means "head."

In ancient times, like in Greece and Rome, people used handkerchiefs much like we do today. However, during the Middle Ages, kerchiefs were mostly used to cover the head.

How Handkerchiefs Are Used

Suits often feature a pocket handkerchief

Handkerchiefs can be folded in many different ways, especially when they are used as a stylish accessory in a suit pocket. Some popular folds include:

• The Presidential: This is a simple fold that fits neatly into a pocket.
• The One-Point Fold: Here, the handkerchief is folded so that one point sticks out of the pocket.
• The Two-Point Fold: This fold creates two points that show, but they don't completely overlap.
• The Puff: This style makes the handkerchief look like a soft, round puff in the pocket.
• The Reverse Puff: Similar to the puff, but with the points showing like flower petals.
• The Straight Shell: This fold creates a pleated look, like nested shells.

Gallery

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  A man pictured (1901) in a three-piece suit with pocket handkerchief showing

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  Men in suits with pocket handkerchief

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  A woman using a handkerchief for personal hygiene

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  A Mouchoir, a type of handkerchief

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  Selling handkerchiefs in Mysore, India.

Images for kids

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  Rumāl with scenes of gopis worshiping Krishna. Late 18th to early 19th century, Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, India. Ceremonial/ritual furnishing, silk embroidery on cotton. LACMA textile collection

See also

In Spanish: Pañuelo para niños