10 Smart Uses for a Shemagh

Shemaghs are traditional cotton scarves that were worn by people in the Middle East for many years. For their several utilities, it is worn to provide shade from the sun or as protection from sand and dust. The Arab scarf normally comes in several colors, including red and white shemagh patterns; thus, it is considered a must-have by many. Although it is usually regarded as a piece of strictly military equipment, the shemagh is a rather versatile tool. Here are ten creative ways to apply your Desert scarf and some of these ten ways are things you wouldn't think about before.

1. Use Shemagh as a Cooling Wrap

Wrap your shemagh around your head after soaking it in cold water on those super hot days; this will help keep you cooler and more comfortable so that you can stay outdoors and enjoy all the activities.

2. Wear Shemagh for Warmth

Your shemagh can keep you toasty during the day. Make extra layers to your neck or tuck it under the hat for extra insulation.

3. Protect Yourself from Dust

Whether one is in a dusty area or doing some sort of work around the house, the shemagh can provide an easy way to block dust. Drape it across your face to provide some sort of a screen cover for the mouth and nose against sawdust, grass clippings, or anything else that may fly through the air.

4. Create a Makeshift Backpack or Sling

Turn your shemagh into a functional carry-on bag by tying opposite corners together. Simply sling it over your shoulder, crossing your chest, and you have a pocket for all kinds of little carry-on items.

5. Make an Emergency Pillow

Being lazy? Take your shemagh, wrap it around a bunch of soft stuff, and voilà: you've got a comfortable pillow. This is very useful when one is on campouts or traveling.

6. Create an Injury Sling

Your shemagh can come in perfectly for work during a time of need as an injury sling. Just wrap it diagonally to give support to a broken arm or collarbone until a medical personnel arrives.

7. Shemagh as a Trauma Bandage

If need be, your shemagh can also play the important role of a first-aid kit. You could tie it over a hurt to hold down on bleeding until you make it to a hospital.

8. Your Shemagh as a Towel Alternative

There are numerous ways in which you can use your shemagh; for example, it can be used as a towel to wipe off your face while doing exercises, or while drying your face after being rained on. The general idea here is to keep you spotless every day

9. Filter your water with your Shemagh

While a shemagh will not get rid of all the bad microbes, it is good to go as a preliminary water filter. Use it for straining off larger particles from contaminated water, thereby making it safer to drink in emergencies.

10. Insect Repellent

Insect bites can be irritating, but your shemagh can help protect your face from bugs. Wear it over your face and make your time in the open more pleasant both during the day and at night. The same flexibility is accorded to people wanting to wear the ghutra, another traditional headscarf applied in the same way.