What is a tenugui? A clear explanation of the difference between it and a handkerchief!
Have you ever wondered, "What is the difference between a tenugui and a handkerchief?" Recently, a variety of tenugui have been sold, from traditional designs to modern ones, and more and more people are becoming interested in them.
However, many people may not know how to use tenugui as they differ from handkerchiefs or towels. In this article, we will explain in detail the basic characteristics of tenugui, how they differ from handkerchiefs, and in what situations they can be used.
1. What is a tenugui?
Tenugui are thin cotton cloths that have been used as daily necessities in Japan since ancient times, and became popular among common people during the Edo period.
Characteristics of Tenugui
- Highly absorbent and dries quickly
- The more you use it, the softer it becomes
- The edges are left uncut
- Folds compactly and is easy to carry
Although the use of towels and handkerchiefs has decreased in recent times due to the widespread use of towels, they are once again attracting attention due to their high design quality and practicality.
2. The difference between tenugui and handkerchiefs
Water absorbent and quick drying
Tenugui are characterized by their high absorbency and quick drying. They dry quickly after wiping away sweat or washing, making them hygienic to use. On the other hand, handkerchiefs are often thick and can take a long time to dry.
Size and portability
Tenugui are generally rectangular and slightly larger, measuring approximately 90cm x 35cm. On the other hand, handkerchiefs are mostly square and approximately 25cm x 25cm. Tenugui can be folded into a compact size, making them almost as easy to carry as handkerchiefs.
Edge treatment (ease of fraying)
Tenugui have raw edges, so they may fray at first. However, as you continue to use them, the threads will naturally settle and they will become less likely to fray. This is due to Japanese wisdom that emphasizes quick drying. On the other hand, handkerchiefs have sewn edges, so they are less likely to fray.
Wide range of uses
Handkerchiefs are basically used to wipe your hands or sweat, but tenugui can also be used for many other purposes.They can be used for wrapping, decoration, wrapping, and more, so they are not just a simple cloth but are useful in many aspects of daily life.
3. In what situations can tenugui be used?
Use as a handkerchief
It can be used to wipe your hands or wipe away sweat. Its quick-drying properties are especially useful in the summer. Even if you wipe your wet hands, it dries quickly, so you can use it again and again.
Use it as a fashion item
You can wear it around your neck to protect yourself from the sun and the cold, or you can wrap it around your head or tie it to your bag as an accent. By choosing the right pattern and color, it can easily become a stylish item.
Wrapping and storing things
It can also be used to wrap lunch boxes or as a cover for plastic bottles. It also looks stylish and is practical when used as a tissue case or small item holder.
Use as interior decoration
They can be used as tapestries to hang on the wall, as noren curtains, or as placemats or tablecloths to brighten up your dining table.
4. Summary | Tenugui are more versatile than handkerchiefs
When comparing tenugui to handkerchiefs, tenugui have the advantage of being more absorbent, drying quickly, and having a wider range of uses.
- Highly absorbent and dries quickly for hygiene
- Folds up compactly and is easy to carry
- Not only can you use it to wipe your hands, but you can also use it to wrap and decorate.
Once you try using a tenugui, you'll realize how convenient it is. If you're interested, try finding a design you like and incorporating it into your daily life.