Handkerchief vs. Bandana

Main Difference

The main difference between Handkerchief and Bandana is that the Handkerchief is a piece of cloth for personal use and Bandana is a large printed handkerchief or scarf, usually with a red or blue ground.

• Handkerchief

  A handkerchief (; also called a hankie or, historically, a handkercher) is a form of a kerchief or bandanna, typically a hemmed square of thin fabric or paper which can be carried in the pocket or handbag, and which is intended for personal hygiene purposes such as wiping one’s hands or face, or blowing one’s nose. A handkerchief is also sometimes used as a purely decorative accessory in a suit pocket; it is then called a pocket square. It is also an important accessory in many folkdances in many regions like the Balkans and the Middle East; an example of a folkdance using handkerchiefs is Kalamatianos.

• Bandana

  A kerchief (from the French couvre-chef, “head cover”), also known as a bandana or bandanna, is a triangular or square piece of cloth tied around the head or neck for protective or decorative purposes. The popularity of head kerchiefs may vary by culture or religion, and may vary among Orthodox Jewish and Christian, Catholic, Amish, and Muslim people.

  Kerchiefs are also worn as headdresses by Malay men in traditional occasions, such as weddings (worn by the groom) and the pesilat. Their headdresses are better known as tengkolok.

  The neckerchief and handkerchief are related items.

• Handkerchief (noun)

  a square of cotton or other finely woven material intended for wiping one’s nose.