Flags represent many important values, beliefs, and ideals. They can serve as a symbol for various organizations, entities, historical events, and governments. The American flag, in particular, is a physical reminder of the sacrifices people have made to protect our nation and all that it stands for.

Proper flag storage enables you to preserve a flag's integrity and appearance while respecting everything it represents. Learn more about how to clean, fold, and store your flags so you can demonstrate your appreciation for the flag and the values it symbolizes.

Why Is Proper Flag Storage Important?

Storing a flag safely is one way to honor its symbolism and value. A flag in good condition represents your respect for it. Older flags, such as those that have been passed down as heirlooms, require special care to protect the delicate fabric.

As you follow proper flag storage techniques, you can protect the flag from damage and fading. Folds, creases, and wrinkles can be difficult to remove, so careful storage ensures the flag always looks crisp and clean. Taking care of the flag also extends its life, allowing you to display it for longer.

How to Prepare Your Flag for Storage

Before tucking your flag away into storage, you'll want to ensure it is free from dirt and stains. Following careful folding patterns will also help your flag look its best when you pull it out again.

Cleaning Best Practices

Protecting your flag from getting dirty or stained is the best way to care for it, but some dirt and wear may be inevitable when displaying it outdoors. If your flag has minor patches of dirt or small stains, use proper washing and drying techniques to get it clean again while preserving its quality.

Try gentle cleaning methods and cleansers that do not leave behind any residue that might discolor the flag. If your flag is delicate or historical, consider finding a flag expert or conservator in your area who has expertise in cleansing fragile fabric.

Keep in mind these cleaning best practices:

• Dry cleaning American flags and other delicate flags to preserve their shape and color
• Washing flags by hand in cold water with mild detergent (such as Dawn dish soap) to protect the color
• Wiping dirt away with a damp cloth to minimize moisture exposure
• Vacuuming with a low-pressure vacuum and a soft brush attachment to remove dust
• Laying the flag flat to dry to reduce stress on the fabric

If your flag becomes wrinkled during cleaning, you can iron it. Set the iron to its lowest heat setting and use a cloth or t-shirt in between the iron and flag to protect the material from direct heat.

Folding Tips

Flags should be folded gently or rolled when preparing them for short-term storage, such as before a move or in between holidays or events. Some flags have specific folding guidelines depending on cultural significance or the design. Rolling flags loosely around a storage tube is ideal since it produces fewer creases and wrinkles and allows the flag to breathe.

Because of the profound symbolism behind the American flag, there are many guidelines for how it should be handled to ensure proper respect. These guidelines outline a specific and traditional triangle folding pattern to honor the flag's history, representation, and value. Two or three people are required to fold the flag to ensure it does not touch the ground. Follow these steps to fold the American flag correctly:

1. Fold the flag together lengthwise in line with the stripes.
2. Fold it lengthwise again, keeping the blue Union on the outside and the edges straight.
3. Take the end with the red stripes, and begin to fold small right triangles.
4. Continue folding 13 small triangles until you reach the blue end.
5. Tuck the remaining fabric into the folds to secure it.

How to Store an American Flag

The triangle fold is appropriate for short-term storage, but leaving the American flag folded for too long can damage fabric fibers and cause permanent creases. The best way to preserve your flag and avoid discoloration, creases, and wrinkles is to store it completely flat on a table with acid-free paper. If you need to fit the flag in a smaller storage space, you can roll it in an acid-free storage tube.

To maintain the flag's integrity, store your American flag in clean, climate-controlled locations, such as a closet or storage unit. The storage space should be away from sunlight to prevent fading and staining. It should also be cool and dry with minimal temperature or humidity fluctuations. The environment should be free of dust, dirt, pet hair, and messy substances. Many modern flags are made from durable nylon or polyester materials but still need proper storage to preserve their weather-resistant characteristics.

Memorial display cases are another appropriate way to store a folded American flag since they protect it from moisture, dirt, and pests. Use acid-free materials and keep the display case away from direct sunlight.

How to Store Other Flag Types

Other flags can be stored similarly to the American flag, such as being stored flat or rolled inside a storage tube. These storage solutions help preserve their integrity and minimize creases and wrinkles. Storing flags in secure, clean, and dust-proof flag cases or storage bins will protect them from external factors, such as sunlight, moisture, and pests.

To properly store a flag on a pole, you can wrap it gently around the pole and secure it with cords or zip ties. Place the flag and pole in a protective case or plastic covering to keep it clean and safe from damage.

How to Preserve Your Stored Flags in Good Condition

If you plan on storing a flag long-term — for several months or longer — check on it and inspect it often. Monitor the storage conditions for any signs of moisture, pests, or other potential issues that could lead to mold growth, fading, deterioration, or damage. Using climate-controlled environments enables you to provide the best protection for your flag. If you have multiple flags on display and in storage, rotate them frequently to prevent uneven wear.

Respect Your Flag With Proper Flag Storage

Proper cleaning, folding, and storage techniques ensure your flag's longevity while honoring its symbolism. When you care for your flags, you can enjoy their clean, crisp appearance for years.

Gates Flag & Banner Company proudly offers the quality flags you need for your home or business. For more professional advice about proper flag storage, contact us today.