101 (or so) Uses for a Bandana The possibilities are unlimited... Cowboys originally wore bandanas because they could be used for a bunch of different purposes. You can see the possibilities from the list we’ve made. Aside from just helping you LOOK like you belong on the ranch, there’s got to be at least one in this list that you can use. On the cattle drive or trail: A wind/dust mask Trail marker by tying to trees or fence Hobble (tie the front feet together to posts prevent walking off) a pack animal Cover your face for a daytime nap Makeshift bridle Tie together and twist for a rope Soak in water and use as a neckband to Clean your boots after stepping in manure keep cool Emergency repair for a strap on a pack Whisk away pestering insects Dry feet after going through a stream Tuck under back of hat to keep sun off Plug nose after encountering a skunk A backpacking strainer for pasta Occupied sign on an outhouse by hanging Pre-filter water on the door Gather wild blueberries in it As toilet paper Mark territory by tying to a tree in the To check wind direction by holding up woods loosely and allowing the wind to blow it As a blindfold to sleep past dawn Sending smoke signals by covering and Pad shoulders when carrying a load releasing smoke from a small fire. To tie extra stuff to a backpack Distract a charging animal by waving it Shine your boots or shoes Around town: Flag a passing motorist Flag down a taxi Cheer at a parade or sporting event Tie to the car antenna for easy spotting Tie to luggage for easy spotting Apparel and Accessories: Scarf or neckerchief Pocket protector Handkerchief Hobo pack Headband Apron Tie together for a belt A patch for holey pants Makeshift hat (knot at each corner) Mask for robbing stagecoaches Earmuffs Hatband Key chain Sports and Games Uses: To lead a line dance To wipe a muddy Frisbee after a Blindfold for Pin the Tail on the day of “mud ultimate” Donkey A net to gather minnows for bait Tie skis together to carry Mark home base line Kite tail Relay baton For magic tricks To wipe sweaty hands when the A flag for capture the flag chalk bag is empty Parachute for Barbie or Ken In the kitchen: Plug sink drain Salad spinner Bib or napkin Potholder Placemat or tablecloth Scrub dishes Open a stuck jar Polish fruit Coffee filter or tea strainer Around the House: Wipe a tear Wrap a gift Blow a nose Give as a gift Muffle a sneeze or cover a cough Doll blanket Clean eyeglasses Make into a doll Bookmark Fly swatter Book Cover Garden hose repair Dog collar Decorate the Christmas tree Muzzle a dog Stuff to make a pillow Blanket for the Chihuahua Polish the car Cat Cape Car window shade Fill with catnip Emergency diaper Disguise your voice on the phone To distinguish twins Emergency and Self Defense: As a sling Wrap around snow or ice for an ice Wrap a sprained ankle or wrist pack To secure a splint As handcuffs to tie up the “bad guys” Surrender flag (make sure it’s white) .