We use cookies to make your experience better. To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, we need to ask for your consent to set the cookies. Learn more.
Flag Care Guide
Essential information to maintain and protect your flags and flagpoles
Avoid Wind & Rain Damage
Always lower flags in winds above 25mph or heavy rain. Ignoring this may cause flag and pole failure.
General Care Guidelines
Dry Thoroughly
Always dry flags completely before storing to prevent mold and mildew.
Roll, Don't Fold
Roll flags to avoid creasing and damage to the fabric fibers.
Proper Tension
Keep flags taut but not over-tight to prevent unnecessary strain.
Gentle Cleaning
Avoid bleach or soda when washing to preserve colors and fabric integrity.
In-Depth Flag Care
Preventing Physical Damage
- Maintain proper halyard tension
- Lower flags during severe weather
- Regularly inspect for wear points
- Avoid contact with abrasive surfaces
Halyard Tension Management
Proper tension is critical to flag longevity. Too tight, and the fabric strains at attachment points; too loose, and excessive flapping causes premature wear.
Weather Risk Assessment
Wind speeds above 25mph can cause significant damage to flags. Heavy rain adds weight, increasing strain on fabric and attachments. Always lower flags during severe weather events.
Pro Tip: Install a wind speed indicator near your flagpole to monitor conditions and protect your investment.
Washing Guidelines
- Machine wash at 40°C
- Use mild detergent only
- Avoid bleach and fabric softeners
- Air dry completely
Proper Washing Technique
Machine wash your flag at 40°C with mild detergent. For delicate or historical flags, hand washing is recommended. Never use bleach or harsh chemicals as they can damage fibers and fade colors.
Repair Techniques
Trim frayed edges with sharp scissors to prevent further unraveling. For larger tears, apply anti-fray solution to the edges before stitching with matching thread. Consider professional repair for valuable or complex flags.
Pro Tip: Keep a small repair kit with matching threads, scissors, and anti-fray solution for quick fixes.
Environmental Factors
- UV radiation causes fading
- Salt air corrodes hardware
- Industrial pollution damages fibers
- Urban smog discolors fabric
UV Protection
Ultraviolet radiation is the primary cause of color fading in flags. Consider UV-resistant fabrics for locations with high sun exposure, and rotate flags more frequently in these environments.
Pollution Impact
Urban and industrial pollution can accelerate fabric deterioration. In high-pollution areas, wash flags more frequently and consider protective treatments designed to repel airborne contaminants.
Pro Tip: In coastal areas, rinse hardware regularly with fresh water to prevent salt corrosion that can damage flag attachments.
Storage Best Practices
- Ensure flags are completely dry
- Roll rather than fold
- Store in cool, dry place
- Use moth repellent for natural fabrics
Proper Storage Technique
Always ensure flags are completely dry before storage to prevent mold and mildew. Roll flags around a cardboard tube rather than folding to prevent permanent creases and fiber damage at fold points.
Storage Environment
Store flags in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For natural fabric flags, use cedar blocks or moth repellent to prevent pest damage. Consider acid-free tissue for historical or valuable flags.
Pro Tip: Label storage containers with flag details and date of storage to track rotation schedules and maintenance history.
Flag Life Expectancy
Weather conditions significantly impact flag lifespan. Use this guide to estimate when replacement may be needed.
Mild Conditions:
9–12 months
Light winds, minimal rain, low pollution
Moderate Conditions:
5–8 months
Regular winds, occasional storms, urban environment
Harsh Conditions:
2–4 months
Strong winds, frequent storms, coastal or industrial areas
Regular inspection is essential. Check for fraying, colour fading, and fabric thinning at least monthly.
Flag Etiquette
Flag Hierarchy
When displaying multiple flags, always follow the proper hierarchy:
-
1National Flags - Always take precedence
-
2Visitor Nation Flags - Honored guests
-
3State/Regional Flags - Local representation
-
4Corporate/Organizational Flags - Private entities
-
5Decorative Flags - Lowest priority
Flagpole Positioning
Proper positioning is essential when displaying multiple flags:
- ✓ When viewed from the front, the highest-ranking flag goes to the viewer's left
- ✓ Equal-ranking flags should be the same size and height
- ✓ National flags should never be smaller or positioned lower than other flags