Cleaning Flags and Flag Care
Flags come in a wide range of sizes and fabrics. They usually come in Cotton or the more popular Nylon, which tough but it also easy to care for and keep clean.
Cleaning Flags
Always read the care instructions which come with your new flag. Generally it is possible to wash and dry your flag – but this needs to be done carefully. Flags that are maintained will last longer and keep their vibrant colors.
If your flag is very dirty, depending on the flag’s material and colorfastness, you may choose to sponge dirty spots using cold water. You can also machine wash hand using the cold water setting with mild detergent. Always allow your flag to air dry. Alternatively, you can take your flag to the dry cleaners.
Washing your flag regularly will increase its lifespan.
Creases in Flags
Check instructions first but creases from folded flags may be erased using a low-warm iron providing an ironing cloth or towel is used between the flag and the iron.
Smart Flag Care
To prevent minor freys becoming serious rips check your flag regularly. Always do minor repairs to your flag when damage is first noticed. Larger flags should be checked for wear at least twice a month. Many people will buy two flags and rotate them frequently. That way one flag can be repaired and cleaned while the other is displayed.
Flags in bad condition should be retired with respect and replaced.
Always position your flagpole in a clear area where your flag won’t whip or rub against rough surfaces, buildings, branches or anything it can snag on and cause tears.
Keep your flagpole clean and in good repair. Rust can stain and corrode your flag and rough edges can tear it.
Finally, do not store a damp flag as it can get moldy. Always allow a flag to air dry and store it in a moisture-proof container or bag.
Avoid Extreme Weather conditions
Only fly a flag in good condition made specifically for outdoor use. Do not expose your flag to rain, snow or abnormally high winds. Strong winds and rain can cause damage to flags of all fabrics. Even all-weather flags will wear faster in rough conditions. It’s best to take your flag down in bad weather or if a storm is forecast.
Flag Life Expectancy
For best quality we only recommend world flags made from durable, and where possible heavyweight nylon. Most flags do not come with any kind of life expectancy or lifetime warranty due to weather conditions constantly changing and the region you live in. Single sided printed Nylon flags are estimated to last approximately 180 days if flown from sunrise to sunset in clear weather conditions. Flags flown 24 hours a day will generally last one third as long. The general rule is the bigger the flag the shorter the life expectancy.