The edge furthest from the staff, known as the 'fly' end is usually the first part of the flag to show wear. If it is possible, mend a tattered flag at early signs of wear. Flags should be hung to dry or laid flat.
Flags can be machine-washed with a mild detergent in cold water. Regular cleaning of your flag can extend its life considerably. Sometimes your flag will only need to be cleaned to restore its original appearance. How do you know your flag should be retired? The United States Flag Code, Title 4, Section 8k states- “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.”įlag Retirement is the term used to define the proper, dignified way of destroying United States flags that are no longer fit to serve the nation.
