American Flag Etiquette

/in , /by

Many of us like to display the American flag, especially around holidays like Flag Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day. But have you ever been unsure about the proper etiquette around displaying Old Glory or how you should clean your flag? Or maybe you’re concerned about what you should do if your flag becomes worn and can no longer be displayed at all. Below you’ll find some basic tips for flag care, display and disposal to help put your worries to rest so you can enjoy the Stars and Stripes in all its majesty!

American Flag Display

The U.S. Flag Code was written in 1923 and made into law in 1942. According to the code there are 7 rules of flag etiquette that should be observed when displaying your flag.

  • The flag should be displayed only from sunrise to sunset unless the flag is illuminated sufficiently.
  • The American flag should be to the right of all other flags meaning to the observer’s left. On your home, the flag should be displayed to the right as you exit your front door.
  • No other flag should be placed above the U.S. flag.
  • The flag should never touch the ground or anything below the flag such as water or plants.
  • Do not fly the flag in inclement weather unless it is an all-weather flag.
  • Do not fly a torn or damaged flag.
  • If you flag becomes damaged, it should be properly retired.

Washing Your American Flag

When you are not flying your U.S. flag, you should take steps to properly clean and store it. Your flag should be carefully washed when needed. It is recommended that you use a delicate detergent and a gentle setting on your washing machine or that you hand wash it to maintain the vibrant colors of the flag. Lay your flag flat to dry. Do not put your flag in the dryer and do not fly a wet flag. You can also dry clean your flag.

Storing Your U.S. Flag

When storing your flag you have several options. If you use your flag regularly you can fold it into a triangle. To do that, fold the flag length-wise twice making sure the blue field of stars is visible. Then fold the flag into a triangle bringing the striped corner to the open edge and bringing it inward. Repeat this step until the end of the flag. Only the blue field of stars should be visible.

If you display your flag less often you will want to avoid creating wrinkles and folds, so lay it flat or keep it in a tube. The key here is ensuring the flag does not get damaged in any way. If lying flat, you can place it in a box on unbleached cotton or acid-free paper. (But remember your flag should never touch the ground!) If storing in a tube, wrap your flag in unbleached cotton or acid-free paper before rolling it and placing it in a suitable tube, preferably an archival tube that will maintain the flag’s integrity.

Proper Retirement of an American Flag

If an American flag becomes tattered or worn, it should be properly retired. It should not be thrown away but rather burned or destroyed in a dignified manner. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, there are several organizations that will accept your flags. Here is a brief but not all inclusive list:

American Legion

Veterans of Foreign Wars

Boy Scouts of America

Proper American flag etiquette is more than just a set of rules—it’s a reflection of the deep respect and gratitude we hold for our nation and those who have served to protect it. By understanding and practicing these traditions, we honor the symbol that unites us as Americans. So raise those flags in pride, and show your appreciation for the freedoms it represents!