Storing our American flag is as important as flying in honor of our Veterans

Washing Polyester or Nylon Flags

Flags made of synthetic fabrics should be hand-washed. Fill your sink with warm water and Laundry Detergent, put your flag in the water and gently push the water through it. Dilute Fabric Softener in water and rinse the flag with the solution to keep your flag smelling fresh and to help repel moisture in humid climates so your flag won’t mildew!

Do not wring dry or you’ll stretch and warp the fabric. If there’s a lot of extra water, lay it on a towel and roll it up, pressing gently to get the extra moisture out. Then spread it out on a drying rack to air dry completely.

Washing Cotton Flags

100% cotton flags can be machine washed in cold water with regular detergent. Try adding Vinegar to brighten those stars and stripes. You still don’t want to use the dryer, as it will shrink the fabric. Lay the flag out flat or iron it to dry.

Washing Vintage Flags

If vintage flags are in good condition, they can be hand washed like a synthetic flag. Do not agitate or scrub the fabric, as this can damage it. If you’re not sure your flag will hold up to a wash, take it to be dry-cleaned. Some dry cleaners will clean a flag for free, especially around patriotic holidays.

Flag Stain Removal

If your flag has discoloration from stains, pretreat the stain with stain remover before washing. When pretreating, rub stain remover into the stain gently, working from the outside of the stain in to avoid spreading it. Remember to test for colorfastness on an inconspicuous part of the fabric first.

Storing & Disposing of Flags

When storing your flag, be sure to keep it somewhere clean and dry. Don’t wrap it in plastic, as this can encourage mold, especially in areas of high humidity.

If you flag has gotten too bedraggled to be on honorable display, the flag code calls for a dignified disposal, preferably by burning. Your local Office of Veterans Services will also provide an official, legal way of disposing a flag.