• Only flags made specifically for exterior use should be displayed outdoors.
• For the best results, DO NOT expose your flag to rain, snow or abnormally high winds; these forces of nature can shorten its life considerably. Should the flag become wet, it should be spread out and allowed to dry completely. Do not fold or roll-up a wet or damp flag.
  
• To keep its rich colors looking bright, clean your flag regularly, before soiling and discoloration from dirt, smoke, dust and other airborne contaminants "set" in the fabric. Outdoor flags can be hand-washed with warm water and a mild soap, or machine washed on gentle cycle. Do not let the flag stand in the wash water or you might experience some color "make off" onto the white stripes. Do not machine dry your flag. Flags can be line hung, flat dried, or placed back on the pole to dry. Professional dry cleaning is recommended for indoor/parade flags.
• DO NOT place the flag where the wind will whip it against rough surfaces, tree branches, wires, cables, etc. The smallest tear can soon result in a tattered flag. Keep pole surfaces free of heavy dirt, rust, scale and corrosion that could damage your flag.
• Inspect your flag regularly for signs of wear. In particular, look for "normal wear" fabric or thread breaks which may occur in the "fly" end. This is the end farthest from the staff. Trimming off and re-hemming torn or frayed ends will help extend the life of your flag.
• Retiring the American Flag - The flag code states that when a flag has served it useful purpose, or is so worn out that it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be destroyed in a dignified manner, preferably by burning. Flag retirement ceremonies should be done in private. You can contact your local VFW Post, American Legion or Boy Scouts in your area for proper disposal.
• For large flags (5' x 8' and up) - Larger flags naturally represent a more significant investment and as such, should be given maximum protection. Pay special attention to paragraph #5 and keep your flag in good repair. Consider having two flags and rotating them on a regular basis. Tests have shown that flag fibers actually benefit from periodic "rest." Also, you will not be without a flag while one is being cleaned or repaired.

How long will my flag last?

Experience has proven that this is an impossible question to answer accurately. It is like predicting the weather, airborne contamination, and the treatment people will give a flag. Flags are a source of pride for people all over the world. Respecting your flag is the greatest factor in lengthening it's life.

The major enemies of your flag will be wind, water, sun, pollution and carelessness (the single greatest cause of flag deterioration). Neither you nor we can control the weather, but you can take care of your flag and lengthen its life.

Occasional washing in warm mild-detergent water will prevent dirt and pollutants from attacking the fabric. To prevent mildew, let your flag dry thoroughly before storing it. Have your flag repaired at the first sign of fraying, don't' wait for the wind to blow it to shreds. Continuous day and night display will shorten a flag's life. If your flag is not lighted at night, you should consider taking it down to lengthen its life.

Our flags are manufactured to give maximum service in return for reasonable care and prudent use. Remember, no two flags receive identical wear. Because weather conditions vary, wearing conditions vary and consequently, the life of each flag is different.

Your flag will work hard. It will shake... it will tremble ... it will drape ... it will whip... it will snap ... it will chafe ... it will bake ... it will freeze ... it will ripple ... it will flutter ... it will quiver ... it will furl ... it will roll ... it will twist ... it will flap ... it will strain ... it will fly ... it will unfurl ... it will hang! Is it any wonder that is needs to be taken care of?

The best way we know to stretch your "flag dollar" is to have three flags: one flying, one in the wash, and a clean one in reserve for special occasions.