They won't save you from a bad cold, they just aren't that thick (read absorbent) but that's not why a gentleman wears a handkerchief. In public, it is considered good manners to use or offer a handkerchief when the need arises and a suitable substitute is not available. And because they don't need to be ironed, you won't get a crumpled cotton pad out of your pocket. They look good, wash well and are inexpensive; everything you could wish for in a handkerchief.