Flags add a festive touch to the exterior of your home or business, and you can use them to highlight your favorite seasons. With proper care, flags can last for several months of around-the-clock use. Using these six care tips will help you prolong your favorite flags’ life spans to maximize your enjoyment of each one.
1- Remove Flags in Inclement Weather
The etiquette for displaying an American flag involves bringing it inside during inclement weather. But, following this etiquette tip can also help to preserve all kinds of flags. Rain, hail, and high winds can all damage the thin fabric and cause tears.
2- Store Flags in a Cool, Dry Place
Moisture can also cause flags to develop mold and mildew that ruin their appearance. You’ll also want to avoid storing flags in harsh sunlight that can bleach the colors of the fabric. Closets are ideal storage places for flags. If possible, try to lay flags flat for storage or use hangers to prevent creases from folds.
3- Maintain the Flagpole
Every flag needs a sturdy flagpole to help it fly in the breeze. Choosing flagpoles made from rust-resistant materials can help to prevent your flag from developing discolorations. You’ll also want to maintain the flagpole to ensure that tears don’t occur during hoisting. When you put your flag up, make sure to also inspect the pole for dents and chipped paint that could harm your flags.
4- Rotate Your Flags Regularly
With some flags, you might choose to fly them throughout the day and night. Taking the time to rotate the flags can reduce the wear and tear that occurs after weeks of constant display. Choosing to switch out your favorite flags with the changing of the seasons or other special occasions can keep them in top condition for the next time you want to put them out.
5- Use Caution With Washing and Drying
High-quality flags are often made from synthetic materials that can be washed in your normal home appliance. However, it’s usually best to use the delicate cycle to prevent rips in the fabric. Laying the flags flat to dry or using the air-dry feature on your dryer can further protect the fabric from wrinkles and heat-related damage.
6- Prevent Contact With Rough Tree Limbs
Flags are often flown high enough that they can be damaged by trees and other items that are nearby. Getting swiped by a tree branch can easily cause fraying and tears that ruin the flag’s appearance. Make sure to trim tree branches regularly if they are near the flag. You can also choose to hang flags in other areas where they are less likely to get hit by nearby objects.
As a final note, remember to carefully inspect your flags on a regular basis. While small tears may be mendable, there eventually comes a point when it’s time for replacement. Having an extra flag available allows you to quickly remove ones that have reached the end of their life so that your property always has a fresh look. If you have to retire an American flag, follow proper disposal procedures or look for an organization in your local area that will handle it for you.
