The Complete Guide to American Flag Care, Display & Maintenance

At Gettysburg Flag Works, we're proud to be your go-to resource for everything flag-related.
We've put together a full library of flag how-to guides and helpful content to help you do everything American flag related the right way.
From cleaning and folding to mounting, lighting, and hardware setup, our step-by-step tutorials and expert tips will ensure your flag flies beautifully for years to come.
Flag Care & Cleaning
- How to Clean and Protect Your American Flag ›
Discover the best way to clean your flag—whether it’s indoor, outdoor, nylon, or fringe-lined. This guide covers washing tips, wrinkle removal, safe drying, and protection techniques to extend the life of your flag. -
How Long Will an Outdoor Flag Last? ›
Learn what factors affect the lifespan of your flag, including sun exposure, wind, usage, and location. It also includes tips to help you get the most out of your flag. -
How to Replace a Flagpole Halyard (Rope) ›
Step-by-step instructions on how to safely re-string your flagpole and reconnect your flag to its hardware. You can get replacement halyard by the foot here.
Flag Display & Etiquette
- How to Display the American Flag Outdoors ›
From house-mounted poles to multiple flagpoles and vertical banners, learn how to correctly and respectfully display your flag based on U.S. Flag Code. - How to Properly Fold the American Flag ›
A visual walkthrough of the proper folding method, complete with photos, etiquette tips, and ideas for displaying or storing your folded flag. - How to Light a Flagpole at Night ›
Find out when lighting is required, how many lumens you need, and whether a solar or ground-mounted light is right for your setup.
Mounting, Hardware & Setup
- How to Mount a Flag on a Spinning Pole ›
Confused about the clips, rings, or sleeve attachment? This quick guide walks you through both grommet and sleeved flag setup on a spinning pole. - How to Attach a Flagpole Clip to the Rope (Halyard) ›
Simple instructions with video and diagrams for attaching your flag using clips—whether for one flag or multiple. -
How to Replace a Flagpole Halyard ›
Don’t let a broken rope keep your flag grounded. This hands-on guide walks you through swapping out halyard rope safely and effectively.
Visual Learner? Check Out Our Video Library
We’ve also created a dedicated Flag How-To Video Library › that features many of the above topics in video form, including:
- Folding the flag
- Assembling flagpoles and hardware
- Lighting setup
- Halyard replacement
- Indoor displays and more
Need Help With a Specific Flag Question?
Our flag experts are just a call or click away. Whether you need assistance finding the right hardware, installing your flagpole, or retiring a beloved flag, we’re here to help.
Call us at 1-888-697-3524 or Contact us online for help right now!