While military patches are normally durable and can last a long time, it's possible to damage them by accident if you aren't careful. Luckily, there are many different ways you can keep them safe and colorful for years to come. Whether you're a collector who wants to safely display patches from World War 2 or the family member of a veteran who wants to preserve a patch for future generations, here's a look at some helpful military patch preservation tips and tricks.
Clean Them Carefully
Hand washing military morale patches is important for preserving their integrity. The delicate nature of these embroidered patches makes them susceptible to damage in a washing machine. A velcro patch, in particular, can snag on other clothing items or the machine’s interior, which can cause fraying or detachment of the hook and loop fasteners.
As such, using a combination of cold water and mild detergent will help prevent colors from bleeding and fabric from deteriorating. When you wash patches by hand, you can gently remove dirt and stains without causing rough wear and tear. This method also ensures that the velcro backing remains intact.
Be Wary of Ironing Them
Ironing military morale patches can cause irreparable harm to their fabric and adhesive backing. Tactical patches often feature intricate embroidery that can become distorted under direct heat. Additionally, the high heat from an iron can melt the velcro patch’s backing or warp the patch itself.
Keep Them Away From Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause significant damage to patches over time. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can fade the vibrant colors of embroidered patches and weaken the fabric, making them brittle and prone to breaking.
To maintain the appearance and durability of these patches, it's best to store them in a display case away from windows or direct light sources. This preservation method helps keep the patches safe and makes sure they remain a lasting sign of military history and service. Whether displayed or stored, keeping them out of sunlight will help them stay bright and colorful for years to come.
Store In a Place With Moderate Temperature
Maintaining moderate temperatures and low humidity levels is essential for the preservation of patches. Extreme temperatures can cause the fabric of morale patches to expand or contract, leading to warping or deterioration. High humidity can foster mold and mildew growth, damaging both the patches and their velcro backing.
As a result, finding a stable environment to store them in prevents these issues and ensures that tactical patches and unit patches remain in excellent condition. For optimal preservation, consider storing patches in a climate-controlled space, such as a storage box with silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture.
Don't Fold Them in Storage
Folding military morale patches can cause permanent creases and damage. Therefore, it’s best to store these patches flat to maintain their original shape and prevent the fabric and velcro from becoming misshapen. Placing patches flat in a storage container, binder, or display case helps avoid unnecessary stress on the material. Proper storage techniques also make it easier to keep the patches organized and accessible for display or attachment to tactical gear.
If You're Interested in Army, Navy, and Other Patches, Reach Out to RAMA World
At RAMA World, we have many different kinds of military patches available in our collection for all branches of the United States military. We sell PVC patches, velcro patches, and much more, including high-quality stickers. Get in touch with RAMA World to learn more about what's in our collection and to place an order!