Forget everything you know about handkerchiefs. It’s time to think outside the (tissue) box.

 

Are handkerchiefs still used?

Yes, handkerchiefs are still used and not just by older generations. Millennials and Gen Z'ers are switching to handkerchiefs, and it's not just to make a statement. It's because they're incredibly practical, convenient, and eco-friendly. Handkerchiefs are a unique item that allows you to be different and make a difference. They are for those who are willing to question and break the norms, which is exactly what Gen Z and Millennials are known for.

In this post, we'll explore the reasons why more and more young people are switching to handkerchiefs.

• Practicality
• Environmental Impact
• Be Different
• Quality / Quantity

 

 

 

Practicality

Millennials and Gen Z are getting over the stigma of carrying handkerchiefs for one major reason: because they're practical. 

What's known about Gen Z and Millennials is that we're a practical bunch, and handkerchiefs are perhaps the most useful item you can carry. Handkerchiefs are there for you when you need to clean up spills, wipe your phone, cover coughs and sneezes, wipe away sweat during a workout, or your face after eating. More simply, for whatever life throws at you.

Handkerchiefs are small and lightweight and can be folded to fit in any pocket, purse, or bag which means they can easily be carried for any occasion. They are also softer and thicker than tissues, napkins, paper towels and other single-use paper products which means you can blow your nose without hurting yourself.

Overall, handkerchiefs are an item that unlocks a new way of life – an increase in freedom, resourcefulness, and eco-consciousness. Face it, the world is a messy place and having a handkerchief on-hand always comes in handy 🖐️.

 

Environmental Impact

Waste? No 'hanks.

 

It's no secret that Millennials and Gen Z are more environmentally conscious than previous generations. Handkerchiefs offer an easy way to do what we can to reduce waste and our impact on the planet.

The benefits of reduce, reuse, and recycle has been instilled in our generation from a young age. A reusable handkerchief provides a more sustainable solution for the typical uses of single-use paper products such as tissues, paper towels, and napkins - because we use a lot of them...

Facial tissues and paper towels alone make up 7.6 billion pounds of waste each year (this adds up to nearly 100,000 average U.S. homes in wood each year!) with their production emitting around 33 million metric tons of greenhouse gases annually.

What this means for the average person is that by switching to handkerchiefs they could reduce their personal waste by up to 25 pounds a year!

Handkerchiefs are a great and easy way to reduce your environmental impact, but it's important to get ones that are made from an eco-friendly, durable fabric like Irish linen and are well-made to last for years.

 

 

 

Be Different

“Gen Zers want to stand out, not fit in, so brands are not as important to them. Rather, they are looking for the next unique product.”

 

Millennials and Gen Z are interested in handkerchiefs because they're a new and unique way to show off their individual style. Handkerchiefs are one of the few accessories that let you express your values and personality with every use. With so many different styles and colors available, it's easy to find ones that match your taste.

Handkerchiefs are the perfect accessory for any occasion or setting. Whether you're going out with friends or just lounging around the house, handkerchiefs add a touch of flair to any outfit and their versatility is unparalleled. They are also a great conversation starter because they often tell a story about who you are and what you care about.

So when people ask: Are handkerchiefs out of style?

We tell them, no! Handkerchiefs are back and better than ever.

 

Quality / Quantity

There are many reasons why young people are switching to handkerchiefs, but one of the most simple: they're just better. Because let’s be honest, who enjoys using tissues? 

As we've mentioned above, handkerchiefs are softer and stronger than tissues, but their high performance attributes do not stop there; they're highly absorbent and rapid drying which means they can last all day. Handkerchiefs are also easy to clean - just throw them in with your normal wash and they come out perfect, ready to be used again. And because they're made from natural fibers like cotton or linen (we prefer Irish linen), they don't smell like chemicals like disposable tissues do.

Gen Z and Millennials are a quality over quantity group. No one wants more “stuff”, we want products that we can use for years, or even for life:

• 73 percent of both Gen Zers and millennials say they would “prefer to buy higher-quality products which will last a lifetime”

We consider ourselves part of this group, which is why our handkerchiefs are made from 100% Irish linen and made in the USA to last for years, not months. 

 

~

Handkerchiefs are for practical, eco-conscious people who live their values.

In conclusion, the handkerchief is an underrated item that has been taken for granted for far too long - but no longer. We believe this has been due to a lack of inspiration in the handkerchief space and a lack of awareness about their environmental benefits. So if you resonate with these values, consider making the switch to something more sustainable and exciting.

Handkerchiefs are a practical, actionable way to make a difference and we can honestly say, life-changing.