How Is It So Many People Don't Respect the Decorative Towel?

I'm all for functionality.  But how is it there are so many people out there who don't understand the purpose of a decorative towel OR the difference between a rag and a dishtowel?  I don't want to hear "don't put the towel out if you don't want it used".  We're out in the world, too, doesn't mean we want to be "used".  The protocol for decorative towels translates to the respect you have for the homeowner.  Those of us with home training know to show our host respect!  

Rag - you can use it to clean, wipe up messes...it is intended for this purpose and will never be placed neatly on the rack to be displayed for it is exactly what it's moniker implies...it's a rag.  Sometimes, it's actually a cut up old shirt, or a threadbare towel.  Don't worry...you'll instinctively know it's a rag because it will look tired and beat up.  

Decorative towel - usually embellished and ties in with the homeowners decor.  Even if you're like me and aren't fancy enough for decorative towels, we got proper home training and we know it's not intended for greasy paws or to mop up an overflowing toilet.  We just KNOW.  You don't mangle them up into a ball and throw them in the corner of the sink.  The home owner likely spent a bit more money on these embellished, pretty towels so we show our common sense and respect by treating them with the delicacy they deserve. 

Hand towels - they may be in a color that compliments the decor, but won't have embellishments.  I, personally, don't like embroidered, or embellished towels because they get wonky once you wash them.  The stitching puckers or the tassel hem shreds up, etc etc etc.  I prefer cushy, soft hand towels in a color that matches the room.   You'll know it's a hand towel because it looks fresh and vibrant with all it's thread count, unlike it's threadbare beat up cousin the "rag".  
 
Paper towels - the most versatile white trash you'll ever meet.  It can be used as a napkin, to wipe up messes, wipe your nose, in a pinch you can use as toilet paper, to sop up filth or spills and yes, you can wipe your grubby, greasy paws all over these and no one will care.  You insult no one if you use these an any fashion you see fit.  You can't say that about your garden variety white trash, can ya?  The toothless guy cookin meth in his trailer can only hope to be as versatile as a paper towel.  He'll spend his whole life falling short of the being the ultimate white trash.

When in doubt, please ask your host!  

If you know someone who's been a victim of decorative towel misuse or know someone who abuses decorative towels, show them this blog.  ;)