How to Repair and Dispose of a Torn US Flag
If you own an American flag, you are well aware of the symbolism of this national emblem: the stars in the field of blue that represent the union;...
2 min read
What is flag retirement?
Flag 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. In this blog post we attempt to answer some of the more common questions around flag maintenance, flag disposal, and flag repair.
How badly damaged does a flag need to be before it should be retired?
It is in the eye of the beholder to determine the condition of a flag. Often a flag only needs cleaning to restore its original appearance. Before retiring it completely regular flag maintenance is your best way to restore an old flag. Flags can be machine-washed in cold water with a mild detergent.They should be laid flat or hung to dry. Never fold the flag when it is damp. It is recommended that you mend a tattered flag at early signs of wear, if possible. The first part of a flag to show wear is usually the fly end, the outer edge of the flag where hems or seams have begun to unravel due to stress from the wind. If the flag appears too tattered for repair, then the flagshould be retired.
What is the preferred way to destroy old, worn, frayed and/or faded U.S. Flags?
The preferred method of flag disposal for old, worn, frayed and/or faded U.S. Flags is by burning them.
(Before and After image of a flag badly in need of repair)
Isn’t burning the flag an act of desecration and a sign of rebellion?
No. Throughout history, burning or cremation has long been considered a dignified way of paying respect to the deceased and to objects worthy of veneration. Burning has been applied to flag retirement to offer the most reverent method of final tribute.
Can anyone retire a U.S. Flag?
The Flag Code does not authorize any particular organization with the duty of retiring unfit flags.Any one person or group can do it.
Where and how should a flag retirement ceremony be performed?
Flags should be retired in private at a non-public location and the ceremony should be a solemn, dignified event.
Is there an official ceremony for retiring flags?
No. There is no one official ceremony.
My municipality prohibits open fires and/or the burning of flags. What can I do?
If you live in such a community, you will need to find an organization that provides flag retirement services. Contact your local government for information regarding such organizations. Another option is to separate the blue starfield from the stripes and then to separate the stripes from each other. Once this is done the material is no longer a flag and the pieces may be respectfully disposed of.
Is it permissible to cut up the American flag?
Yes. Some organizations even recommend cutting the flags into smaller pieces before placing them in the incinerator or on the fire. When doing this, please keep the union of blue intact. Doing so symbolizes that the unity of our union should never be broken.
Flag Care Precautions:
When burning flags made of synthetic fibers, be aware that they may burn quickly, drip melted fabric, and emit noxious gases into the air. Handle such flags with care. 
2 min read
How To Correctly Retire an American Flag
Are you flying the American flag as part of your Independence Day celebration? If you haven't checked your flag to make sure it's in good repair,...
2 min read
How To Correctly Retire an American Flag
Are you flying the American flag as part of your Independence Day celebration? If you haven't checked your flag to make sure it's in good repair,...