A.T. Robertson Commentary Acts 19:12

"insomuch that unto the sick were carried away from his body handkerchiefs or aprons, and the evil spirits went out." — Acts 19:12 (ASV)

Handkerchiefs (σουδαρια). Latin word for συδορ (sweat). Used in Lu 19:20; John 11:44; 20:7. In two papyri marriage-contracts this word occurs among the toilet articles in the dowry (Deissmann, Bible Studies, p. 223).

Aprons (σιμικινθια). Latin word also, semicinctilum (σεμι, χινγο). Only here in the N.T. Linen aprons used by servants or artisans (Martial XIV. 153). Paul did manual work at Ephesus (20:34) and so wore these aprons.

Departed (απαλλαλσεθα). Present passive infinitive with ωστε for actual result as in verse 10. If one wonders how God could honour such superstitious faith, he should remember that there is no power in superstition or in magic, but in God. If God never honoured any faith save that entirely free from superstition, how about Christian people who are troubled over the number 13, over the moon, the rabbit's foot? The poor woman with an issue of blood touched the hem of Christ's garment and was healed (Luke 8:44–46) as others sought to do (Matthew 14:36). God condescends to meet us in our ignorance and weakness where he can reach us. Elisha had a notion that some of the power of Elijah resided in his mantle (2 Kings 2:13). Some even sought help from Peter's shadow (Acts 5:15).