|
How to give Old Glory the care it deserves
From Flag Day through Labor Day, summer is flag-flying season. Whether your American flag has been flying all summer long, or has just made a Labor Day appearance, Nancy Bock, Vice President of Education at The Soap and Detergent Association, has some tips for giving it the good care it deserves.
- Mount the flag where it can fly free and unencumbered. If it flutters or waves against another surface (tree, gutter, fence, house, etc.), it'll wear out faster.
- Check for rips and tears. Periodic checking and prompt repair will help prolong its life.
- If the flag is displayed indoors or in a sheltered location, vacuum it periodically to remove dust and loose dirt. To do this, spread the flag out on a flat surface (but not on the ground – touching the ground is considered disrespectful to the flag). Cover the vacuum's brush attachment with a piece of cheesecloth and then gently pat the fabric to remove the particles.
- If the flag is stained or dirty, it should be dry cleaned or gently washed by hand. For most fabrics, dry cleaning is the preferred method. Many drycleaners will clean a U.S. flag free of charge. Some will do it anytime as a good-will gesture; some will do it around major patriotic holidays; and some will do it if you're bringing other items in to be cleaned. Contact your local drycleaner to inquire about their policy.
- If you decide to hand wash your flag, fill a wash basin or sink with cool water and a mild detergent. Gently scrub any spots or stains. Rinse thoroughly. Lay it out flat to dry. If desired, the flag can be ironed. Just be sure it doesn't touch the ground during the drying or the ironing process.
When a flag is so worn that it's no longer serviceable, be sure that it's destroyed in a dignified manner. Most American Legion posts regularly conduct a dignified flag-burning ceremony. Many Cub Scout packs, Boy Scout troops and Girl Scout troops also retire flags regularly. Contact your local American Legion hall or Scout troop to inquire about the availability of this service.
Email
Us
 |
Cleaning Matters is
compiled by The Soap and Detergent Association and is
not copyrighted. Such information is offered solely to
aid the reader. The Soap and Detergent Association and
its member companies do not make any guarantees or warranties,
expressed or implied, with respect to the information
contained in Cleaning Matters and assume no responsibility
for the use of this information. |
|
