How to Clean and Store Your American Flag

Your American flag has weathered storms, flown proudly on holidays, and served as a daily symbol of national pride. But after months of sun exposure, wind, rain, and dust, even the highest-quality flags start to show wear. The good news? With proper cleaning and storage, you can extend your flag’s life significantly, and keep it looking sharp for years to come.

At AC Flag & Banner, we’ve spent over 21 years helping customers in the Denver metro area (and beyond) choose, display, and maintain their flags. We’ve seen firsthand how a little regular care makes a huge difference. Whether you’re flying a nylon flag from your front porch or displaying a cotton flag indoors, we’re here to walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and storing your American flag the right way.

Why Proper Flag Care Matters

Let’s be honest: flags take a beating. Outdoor flags endure UV rays that fade colors, wind that frays edges, and rain that can leave behind mineral deposits and mildew. Even indoor flags collect dust and can yellow over time.

But here’s the thing, proper flag care isn’t just about aesthetics. According to the U.S. Flag Code, the American flag should always be displayed in a condition that reflects respect for the nation it represents. A tattered, faded, or soiled flag doesn’t just look bad: it’s actually considered disrespectful to continue flying it.

Regular cleaning removes dirt, pollutants, and organic matter that can break down fabric fibers over time. And storing your flag correctly during harsh weather or extended periods of non-use prevents unnecessary wear. Think of it like maintaining a car, consistent upkeep costs less (in time and money) than letting problems pile up until you need a full replacement.

The bottom line: taking care of your flag honors what it stands for while saving you from buying replacements every few months.

How to Wash a Nylon or Polyester American Flag

Nylon and polyester are the most common materials for outdoor American flags, and for good reason. They’re lightweight, dry quickly, and hold up well in various weather conditions. Cleaning them is pretty straightforward, but there are a few key steps to follow.

Hand Washing (Recommended)

We always recommend hand washing when possible. Fill a large basin, bathtub, or clean utility sink with lukewarm water, not hot, as high temperatures can affect the fabric and dyes. Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Dish soap works fine in a pinch, but avoid anything with bleach or harsh chemicals.

Submerge the flag and gently agitate it with your hands. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes if it’s particularly dirty. Pay attention to any stained areas, using a soft cloth or sponge to gently work out spots. Don’t scrub aggressively, you’ll damage the fabric.

Rinse thoroughly with cool, clean water until all soap residue is gone. Leftover detergent can attract dirt and leave the flag feeling stiff.

Machine Washing (Use Caution)

If hand washing isn’t practical, machine washing can work for smaller nylon or polyester flags. Use the gentle or delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Place the flag in a mesh laundry bag to prevent tangling and reduce friction.

Here’s what to avoid:

• Hot water
• Bleach or fabric softener
• High-spin cycles
• Washing with other items (especially anything with zippers or hooks)

After washing, remove the flag promptly to prevent wrinkles from setting in.

How to Clean a Cotton American Flag

Cotton flags have a classic, traditional look that many people prefer, especially for indoor display or ceremonial use. But, cotton requires more delicate handling than synthetic materials.

Spot Cleaning First

Before doing a full wash, check whether spot cleaning will do the job. Mix a small amount of mild soap with water and use a soft white cloth to dab at stained areas. Avoid colored cloths, as dye could transfer to the flag. Blot gently, don’t rub.

Hand Washing Cotton Flags

For a thorough clean, fill a basin with cool to lukewarm water and add a gentle detergent designed for delicates. Submerge the flag and swish it gently. Let it soak for 10-20 minutes, then drain and refill with clean water to rinse. You may need to rinse two or three times to remove all soap.

Never wring out a cotton flag. The twisting motion can distort the fabric and damage embroidered or printed elements. Instead, press the water out gently with your hands or roll the flag in a clean towel to absorb excess moisture.

Dry Cleaning Option

For vintage, antique, or heirloom cotton flags, we recommend professional dry cleaning. These flags may have weakened fibers or historical significance that warrant extra care. Let the dry cleaner know it’s a flag, they’ll typically use gentler processes.

Important note: Never machine wash a cotton American flag unless the manufacturer specifically says it’s safe. Cotton shrinks and weakens when subjected to machine agitation.

Drying Your American Flag Safely

Proper drying is just as important as washing. Done wrong, you can end up with mildew, color bleeding, or permanent creases.

Air Drying (The Best Method)

For both synthetic and cotton flags, air drying is the safest approach. Lay the flag flat on a clean, dry surface, a large table covered with towels works well. Alternatively, you can hang it on a clothesline, but make sure to support the weight evenly. Clipping just the corners can cause stretching.

Avoid direct sunlight during drying, as prolonged UV exposure can fade colors even in a short period. A shaded outdoor area with good airflow is ideal. Indoors works too, though it may take longer.

What About the Dryer?

We generally don’t recommend machine drying. The heat can damage synthetic fibers, cause shrinkage in cotton, and potentially melt any printed elements. If you absolutely must use a dryer, say, you need the flag for an event in an hour, use the lowest heat setting possible and remove it while still slightly damp to finish air drying.

Dealing with Wrinkles

If your flag comes out wrinkled, resist the urge to iron it directly. For nylon and polyester flags, use a steamer or iron on the lowest setting with a pressing cloth between the iron and fabric. Cotton flags can handle slightly more heat, but always test on an inconspicuous corner first.

Never iron directly over printed or embroidered areas, you’ll damage them.

How to Fold an American Flag for Storage

There’s a traditional method for folding the American flag into a tight triangle, and while it takes a bit of practice, it’s worth learning. This fold keeps the flag compact, protects the fabric from creasing in odd places, and, perhaps most importantly, it’s the respectful way to handle the flag when it’s not being displayed.

Step-by-Step Folding Instructions

1. Start with two people (if possible) holding the flag taut and parallel to the ground. One person holds the blue field (union) end, the other holds the opposite end.
2. Fold lengthwise in half, bringing the striped bottom half up over the blue field. The flag should now show red and white stripes on both sides.
3. Fold lengthwise again, bringing the folded edge up to meet the open edges. The blue field should now be visible on the outside of one end.
4. Start triangular folds from the striped end. Take the corner and fold it up to the top edge, creating a triangle.
5. Continue folding triangles down the length of the flag, keeping each fold tight and aligned.
6. Tuck the final edge into the pocket of the last fold. You should end up with a neat triangle showing only the blue field with white stars.

If you’re folding alone, laying the flag on a clean, flat surface makes the process easier. Take your time, a sloppy fold leads to a lumpy, hard-to-store flag.

Best Practices for Long-Term Flag Storage

Once your flag is clean, dry, and properly folded, where you store it matters just as much as how you prepared it.

Choose the Right Container

Avoid plastic bags or airtight containers, especially for cotton flags. Trapped moisture can lead to mildew, and lack of airflow causes yellowing over time. Instead, opt for:

• A breathable cotton or muslin storage bag
• An acid-free cardboard box
• A wooden flag display case (ideal for ceremonial flags)

At AC Flag & Banner, we carry flag storage cases and accessories designed specifically for long-term preservation. These cases protect against dust, pests, and environmental damage while allowing the fabric to breathe.

Storage Location Matters

Store your flag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Attics and basements are generally poor choices, attics get too hot in summer, and basements tend to be damp. A climate-controlled closet or storage room is ideal.

Keep the flag away from:

• Heat sources (furnaces, water heaters)
• Windows with direct sun exposure
• Areas prone to pest activity
• Damp or humid environments

Check Periodically

Even in storage, flags should be inspected every few months. Unfold the flag, check for any signs of mildew, pest damage, or discoloration, and refold it. This simple habit catches problems early before they become irreversible.

When to Retire Your American Flag

No matter how well you care for your flag, it won’t last forever. Knowing when to retire it is part of responsible flag ownership.

Signs It’s Time for a New Flag

• Significant fading – The colors are noticeably washed out or uneven
• Frayed edges – The fly end (opposite the attachment side) is tattered beyond minor wear
• Tears or holes – Damage that can’t be reasonably repaired
• Stains that won’t come out – Permanent discoloration affecting the flag’s appearance
• Mildew or mold damage – Often leaves lasting odors and weakened fabric

A good rule of thumb: if you wouldn’t feel comfortable displaying the flag to visitors, it’s probably time to retire it.

How to Properly Dispose of an American Flag

The U.S. Flag Code states that worn flags should be destroyed “in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” Many organizations offer flag retirement services, including:

• Local American Legion or VFW posts
• Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops
• Some fire departments
• Civic organizations

Many of these groups hold flag retirement ceremonies, especially around Flag Day (June 14) and Veterans Day. You can also contact us at AC Flag & Banner, we’re happy to point you toward local resources in the Denver area for proper flag disposal.

And once your flag is retired? We carry a wide selection of high-quality American flags in various sizes and materials to help you find the perfect replacement.

Conclusion

Taking care of your American flag doesn’t require special equipment or hours of effort, just a little knowledge and consistent attention. Regular cleaning prevents buildup that damages fabric, proper drying avoids mildew and warping, and correct folding and storage keep your flag in display-ready condition for years.

At AC Flag & Banner, we’ve been helping customers choose and maintain quality flags for over two decades. Whether you need a replacement flag, storage accessories, or just advice on keeping your current flag looking its best, we’re here to help. Stop by our Denver-area location or browse our selection online.

Your flag represents something meaningful. Treat it that way, and it’ll fly proudly for seasons to come.