Flag lifespans can vary, but if you take good care of your American Flag, you’ll have it to fly high for years to come. Luckily, caring for your US flag is not nearly as difficult as you may think.

In fact, you can keep your American Flag in tip-top shape in just three easy steps!

3 Steps to Caring for an American Flag

1. Wash and Dry Your American Flag Carefully: Outdoor American flags that are frequently washed will last longer and maintain their vibrant color. Particles from the elements as well as dirt and air pollution can dull the flag and cause damage to the fibers, so frequently washing your American Flag with a mild soap will prolong its life.

   There are very specific steps to take when washing your American flag. If you machine wash your flag, run it on a gentle cycle and make sure not to let it sit long or the colors may run. To dry the flag, do not use a machine dryer; rather, just lay your flag flat until it is dry.

   If you are unsure of how to wash your flag, you can take it to a dry cleaner to have it professionally washed. Dry cleaning is an especially smart option for indoor flags that are not as durable as outdoor flags.

2. Keep Fringe Dry At All Times: If your American Flag has yellow fringe, it’s very important to keep the fringe dry at all times.

   If the fringe becomes wet, the color may start to run and stain the rest of the flag. If the fringe does happen to become wet, lay the flag flat on towels so that it may dry properly.

3. Repair Any Minor Rips or Tears In Your US Flag As Soon as You Notice Them: If you frequently repair your American Flag, it will last much longer. Small tears in your flag can quickly grow as the flag waves in the wind, so it’s very important to have them mended right away.

   However, be aware that your flag can only be repaired a certain number of times before it becomes too short to be a regulation-sized American Flag. Keep an eye on the frays and tears, and your flag should stay safe.

By following these three easy steps, you can keep your flag looking beautiful and flying high for a long time. With the proper care, your American Flag will last for years to come!

Interested in additional information about maintaining your flags? Learn more about caring for and repairing your US flag here.

Curious about a typical flag's expected lifespan? You can find information about flag lifespans here, along with details regarding key factors that can impact flag longevity and useful life.

Have Questions About American Flag Care, Maintenance & Repair? We Can Help!

At Gettysburg Flag Works, we're passionate about all things flag-related. Whether you need help repairing a beloved flag, you're looking to purchase a new American flag, or you're wondering what to do with a flag that's ready to retire, we can help!

Give us a call at 1-888-697-3524 or contact us online and we'll get right back to you with the information you're looking for!