With Flag Day and Independence Day approaching, we wanted to share tips on how to properly store an American flag. We celebrate Flag Day on June 14 each year to commemorate the adoption of the flag as the official symbol of the United States. The “Stars and Stripes” were officially adopted on June 14, 1777 by a resolution of the Second Continental Congress. Flying the US flag demonstrates respect and love for the country, but certain circumstances arise when you’ll need to store your flag. Proper American flag storage helps preserve the integrity of the flag.
Proper American Flag Storage
American flag storage begins with a clean and properly folded flag. Ideally, your flag won’t be dirty, but if it happens to accumulate dust and debris, never have your flag dry cleaned. We suggest wiping your flag with a damp cloth and vacuuming with a low-pressure vacuum. If your flag is more than 30 years old, don’t wash without the advice of a professional conservator.
How to Fold a US Flag
As you prepare your American flag for storage, it’s important to learn how to fold it in a way that shows the proper respect. The flag is traditionally folded in a specific way, which requires 2 to 3 people. First, fold the lower striped half of the flag up over the blue field. Next, fold it lengthwise again, bringing the bottom fold up to the top edge. Then, starting at the end with the red stripes, make a series of triangular folds until you reach the blue and – 13 triangle folds in all. Tuck the remaining fabric inside the folds to secure the flag.
Remember, flags should only be folded in this official style when in regular use. Prolonged storage in the traditional, triangular formation can lead to permanent creases.
Tips for Storing Flags
When it comes time to pack away your American flag, it needs to be stored in a cool, dark place. Bright light, especially sunlight, causes fading and deterioration of the fabric if exposed for long periods of time. Rooms kept too humid can cause damage to your flag, which makes it essential to store your American flag pro
perly. Avoid storage in the garage, basement or attic, as these environments may also cause damage to the fabric.
As mentioned above, if your flag is used regularly, it can be folded in the official way, but if not there are other options to prevent creasing. If displaying infrequently, store your flag flat, or consider rolling it and placing it in a storage tube made from acid-free material. We don’t recommend cardboard or wood containers, to prevent damage.
Never use mothballs or pesticides in areas where your flag is stored, as they contain chemicals that are harmful to fabrics. When storing your flag, use acid-free tissue paper or a clean, unbleached cotton cloth to prevent possible damage. Remember — don’t store your flag in a plastic bag.
At Security Public Storage, we believe the ideal place to store an American flag is in a climate-controlled storage unit. Climate-controlled storage units help protect your flag from ultraviolet light and prevent fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Like other fabrics, flags are susceptible to changes in the environment. Creating a consistent, dark, dry atmosphere helps protect your flag, preserving it for years to come.
Proper US Flag Retirement
According to the United States Flag Code, Title 4, Section 8k, “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.” Take your old flags to organizations including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Girls Scout of the USA, or The Boy Scouts of America. If you take your old flags to one of these organizations, they will be able to dispose of them by giving them a proper burial. Flag disposal ceremonies are held throughout the year.
Climate-Controlled Storage at SPS
The United States flag symbolizes courage, strength, and democracy and should we treat it with respect. Remember to always store your flag in a dark place to avoid fading from sunlight exposure. At SPS, many of our locations offer climate-controlled storage, which helps create the ideal climate for flag storage. Keep your flag out of attics, basements and garages where temperatures can vary and moisture can accumulate. If you follow proper American flag storage guidelines, you’ll enjoy your flag for years to come.
Find the SPS storage location nearest you today.