How to Clean the American Flag

Stars, Stripes, and Suds: How to Keep Your American Flag Looking Proud and Polished

The American flag is more than just fabric—it's a symbol of our country’s history, resilience, and unity. Whether you're flying Old Glory year-round or only on patriotic holidays, proper care is key to keeping it looking sharp and respectful. But that leaves many wondering—can you wash a flag, and if so, what’s the right way to do it?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean American flag materials the right way, along with the best practices for how to hang the American flag, how to fold the American flag, and even how to dispose of the American flag when it’s time. Honoring the Red, White, and Blue starts with knowing how to care for it properly.

A Symbol Worth Keeping Clean

Your American flag weathers the sun, wind, rain, and snow, so it deserves a little TLC. But before you toss it in the laundry with the beach towels, let’s talk about how to refresh it with respect.

Can you wash a flag?

Yes! In most cases, you can wash a flag as long as you provide the appropriate care and attention. American flags are often made of delicate materials like nylon, polyester, or cotton. Depending on the material, cleaning methods will vary.

How to clean the American flag without causing damage

To safely clean your American flag, always start by checking the label (if it has one). If your flag has sentimental value or is very old, consider taking it to a professional cleaner with experience handling flags.

For machine-washable flags:

• Use cold water and a mild detergent.
• Select the delicate cycle.
• If the flag is small or delicate, place it in a mesh laundry bag.
• Do not use bleach or fabric softener.
• Lay flat or hang to dry—never toss it in the dryer.

For hand-washing:

• Fill a clean basin or sink with cold water and a gentle detergent.
• Swish the flag slowly through the water.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Gently press out water without wringing or twisting.
• Hang to air-dry, away from direct sunlight.

For heavily soiled flags:

If your flag is stained with mud, mildew, or grime from its time outdoors:

• Spot clean soiled areas gently with a soft cloth and diluted dish soap.
• Rinse and allow to dry naturally.
• Avoid scrubbing or using abrasive brushes, which can tear the fabric.

Need help with other delicate items around the house? Check out these cleaning tips from Molly Maid® for effective cleaning techniques for every part of your home.

How to Fold an American Flag with Respect

Once your flag is fresh and clean, it’s important to store it properly—and that means knowing how to fold an American flag according to tradition.

The proper way to fold the American flag:

1. Start with the flag held waist-high between two people.
2. Fold it in half lengthwise twice.
3. Begin folding the flag into a triangle at the striped end.
4. Continue folding until the flag resembles a blue triangle with only the stars showing.
5. Tuck any excess fabric inside the final fold.

This traditional triangle fold represents the tri-corner hats worn during the American Revolution and symbolizes honor and remembrance.

Bonus: Store your clean, folded flag in a dry, dark place to avoid fading and mildew.

How to Hang an American Flag with Pride

Displaying the flag correctly is one of the best ways to show your respect. So, let’s clear up any confusion about how to hang an American flag at home.

Outdoors on a pole:

• Hang with the union (blue field with stars) at the peak of the staff.
• Raise briskly and lower ceremoniously.
• The flag should not touch the ground, tree branches, or anything beneath it.

On a wall or window:

• If hanging vertically or horizontally, the union should be in the upper-left corner from the viewer’s perspective.

Indoors:

• In a group of flags, the U.S. flag should be in the center and at the highest point.
• If displayed in a window, the union should be on the left when viewed from the street.

Need a perfectly cleaned home to match your patriotic display? Browse our cleaning services or request a free estimate to see how we can help you prepare for your next celebration.

What to Do When Your Flag Is Worn or Damaged

No matter how well you care for it, your flag will eventually show signs of wear. Eventually, the time will come to retire it. We’ll help you do it with respect.

How to dispose of an American flag the right way

When a flag becomes too tattered to fly, it should be respectfully retired. Here’s how to dispose of an American flag appropriately:

• Ceremonial burning is the traditional method, often performed by veterans' organizations or scout troops.
• Check with your local American Legion, VFW, or Boy Scouts—they often collect worn flags for proper retirement.
• Do not throw a retired American flag in the trash. This is considered disrespectful.

If proper burning isn’t an option, search for local organizations that accept flag drop-offs or offer ceremonial burials.

Bonus Tip: Pair Patriotism with Landscaping

Want your home’s curb appeal to match your patriotic spirit? A freshly mowed lawn, tidy flower bed, and thriving trees create the perfect complement for a flagpole or Americana-themed porch display.

For landscaping inspiration, check out this guide to patriotic gardens from our sister brand, The Grounds Guys®.

Let Your Patriotism Shine (Without the Cleanup Stress)

Whether you're prepping for a Fourth of July bash or simply want to keep your home and flag display looking their best, Molly Maid is here to help. From cleaning delicate items to keeping your entire home celebration-ready, our trusted cleaning professionals know what it takes to bring that sparkle back.

All our services are backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise® to ensure your satisfaction every time we visit. With over 450 locally owned franchises, it’s easy to find your nearest Molly Maid team. Just search our locations to get started!

This article is intended for general guidance only and is not applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property and situation. Molly Maid is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of advice and/or guidance derived from its blog content. Molly Maid services may vary by location. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Molly Maid nearest you for more information and a professional on-site assessment.

FAQs About Cleaning an American Flag

Since 1984, Molly Maid has proudly offered a reliable, professional, and affordable solution to a messy, dirty home. Providing the house cleaning services that busy homeowners need also includes using our years of experience to answer your questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about how to clean the American flag.

How do you clean an American flag without damaging it?

To safely clean an American flag, hand wash with cold water and a gentle detergent. If the flag is made of machine-washable material, use a delicate cycle and air dry. Never use bleach or harsh chemicals.

What is the correct way to fold the American flag?

To fold the American flag, fold lengthwise twice, then create triangular folds starting from the striped end. Neatly tuck leftover cloth into the last fold. The final result should show only the stars and resemble a triangle.

Can you display an American flag at night?

Yes, the American flag can be displayed at night as long as it’s properly illuminated. The flag should remain fully visible and recognizable. Otherwise, the flag should only be displayed from sunrise to sunset. The U.S. Flag Code does not specify or place restrictions on the type of lighting to be used, as long as the display remains dignified.

Can you wash a flag in the washing machine?

Yes, if the label permits. However, the best way to clean American flag materials depends on the fabric. Delicate flags should be hand-washed. If you use the washer, run with cold water, mild detergent, and a mesh bag for protection.

What is the proper way to dispose of an American flag?

According to the U.S. Flag Code, the appropriate way to dispose of an American flag requires burning in a respectful ceremony. Organizations like the American Legion handle this ceremony to ensure proper retirement.