Cleaning and preserving a flag isn't as simple as it may seem. There are many common pitfalls that many don't know about that can cause their flags to wear out faster and result in an early retirement. Nobody wants to depart with a flag, especially if it's an heirloom from an ancestor or a gift. Let's take a look at four flag care best practices for the American flag — and any flag for that matter.
Know When Not to Display
Most Americans know when to hang up their flags — on July 4th, Lincoln's Birthday, Veteran's Day, and other holidays. However, do you know when not to display your flag? While the Star Spangled Banner tells us of how the Stars and Stripes endured the bombing of Fort McHenry, the truth is that it's best not to hang it when there's extreme weather.
To ensure your flag lasts as long as possible, don't let it fly when it's snowing and raining outside. Another way of protecting your flag from damage is by only flying it in open spaces. When there are tree branches, buildings, cables, and other obstacles close by, the flag can become damaged over time as it is whipped against these surfaces by the wind.
Additionally, you should also know that not all flags were designed to be displayed outdoors. Nylon flags, in particular, are safe for outdoor use, so double-check what material yours is beforehand.
Fold It Properly
Another key part of proper flag etiquette is folding it correctly. Although something as simple as folding may not seem that important in the grand scheme of things — outside of preventing wrinkles — there is actually some symbolism in the process. For example, the flag is traditionally folded 13 times to represent the original 13 colonies, and each particular fold has its own meaning.
The proper way to fold a flag is as follows:
Straighten it out completely
Fold the bottom striped part lengthwise over the blue section
Fold it lengthwise again so that the blue field is visible and the open edge is met
Create a triangular fold at the edge of the striped section
Continue making triangular folds until the entire length is folded
Wash When Needed
If smoke, dust, and other contaminants are allowed to set into the fabric of your flag over time, its bold colors can fade. To keep its red, white, and blue color as long as possible, it's a good idea to wash it.
For flags made of nylon and other types of synthetic materials, using a mild detergent and cold water in a delicate washing machine cycle can do the trick. When it comes to older flags made from cotton and wool that have been passed down through the generations, it's better to wash them by hand using cold water and oxygen-bleach. Of course, if there are only a few spots that are dirty, consider spot cleaning it instead.
No matter what the flag material is, avoid harsh chemicals and high heat, as these can damage the fabric. After washing, dry the flag by laying it flat on a clean surface or hanging it in a shaded area. With proper flag care and maintenance, you can help your Stars and Stripes stay vivid for as long as possible!
Follow Proper Flag Storage Practices
Do you know how to store a flag correctly? By placing your flag in the right storage conditions, you can keep it safe when it's not being displayed.
First, make sure the flag is clean and dry before storage. Moisture can cause mildew, while dirt can lead to staining. Store the flag in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from humidity or heat. Use a breathable container, such as a cotton or muslin bag, to allow air circulation and prevent condensation.
Additionally, keeping it in the dark and away from the sun is another proper flag storage practice you should follow. Just like with your rugs and living room furniture, constant exposure to sunlight can cause the color to fade away over time. By properly storing a flag, you can ensure it's safe and ready to be displayed for years to come!
If You're Searching for Colorful Military Flags, Visit RAMA World Today
At RAMA World, we have a wide assortment of military flags available in our collection. In addition, we also offer many different patches, flight scarves, and much more! Get in touch with us today to learn more about our selection and to place an order.