These are pretty good handkerchiefs. I use them as actual handkerchiefs, not as pocket squares for a suit. They're pretty soft but somewhat thin. I can't seem to find handkerchiefs that are as good as the big, soft, cotton ones I had as a kid, but these ones are pretty decent, and they're cute. I wash them in the washing machine with my other clothes without pre-washing (unless I'm sick - then I pre-wash them by hand). I haven't had any problems with them.