I am rather important yet seldom a subject of the public eye.

I differ depending on gender yet maintain the same general appearance.

I am sometimes used as an accessory yet alone have little appeal.

I manifest a variety of patterns yet semblance is rarely appreciated.

I reside in a cavernous environment yet am never far from warmth.

I am typically of a slight build yet never treated with courtesy.

I am generally agreeable yet can become abrasive when saturated.

I have a short life expectancy yet this can be extended with care.

I usually come in a pack with others akin yet am occasionally single.

I am frequently kept until threadbare yet am basically worthless.

I am proficient at a number of tasks yet mostly I am assigned to wiping.

I am by nature a square yet if you need me I am always around.

WHAT AM I?

Last week’s Fustigator: Telephone