Operation hanky rescue

I have rescued a lovely white handkerchief to add to my collection.

On the way to work on Monday, I saw this poor little handkerchief on the ground getting all stomped on and dirty(er) but didn’t really think much of it until I saw it was still there on my way home.

Then on the way to work on Tuesday, I noticed the little guy was still sitting there – unloved and unwanted. But I kept walking. Only I was intrigued by this lonely little piece of cloth so I told myself that if it was still there on my way home I would give it a closer look.

And, upon closer inspection, I noticed that there was a blue “R” embroidered on it. I stood contemplating what I would do with an R-enhanced hanky, as I couldn’t see myself passing it on to Rachel, Rebecca, or Royann. Well, I couldn’t see them appreciating a rescued hanky at least. So I walked away.

Then – all of the sudden! – I realised that my own last name starts with an R! So, obviously, this was fate. I then turned back, grabbed a bit of paper from my bag*, and picked it up.

Once home, I soaked it in boiling water. Then I soaked it in a white vinegar and baking soda combination. Then I boiled it on the stove for a bit. Then I boiled it some more. Then I finally put it in the laundry.

And now I have a lovely new handkerchief complete with my last initial engraved in one corner.

If the idea of rescuing a bit of cloth from the ground that will be used to wipe noses and dry tears brings you a level of disgust, think of this: Hotel towels and bedding are used by countless people who do all sorts of things with them. And we’ve all heard stories about hotel cleanliness.

So really, my overly-cautious cleaning routine will make using my new hanky OK. But, just in case, it might run through the wash a couple more times before I dare blow my nose into it …

* Yes, I picked it up without actually touching it and then wrapped it in the paper to carry it home. I didn’t actually touch it until it had been boiled. I’m perfectly happy to pick up a penny with my bare hands, but picking up someone’s used and filthy hanky is another story!