Is a shemagh the same as a "doosh-dash" (spelt phonetically!)? That is what I use my towel, blanket, mop, cloak and, occasionally, a head-wrap. BTW, it's intended use is a Middle-East-based head-wrap. it is also about as thick as a a bandana, and large enough to use as a sarong.

I don't use bandanas often, but i keep one with me as a spare rag when hiking/outdoors. the "doosh-dash" works for me.