American flag etiquette is important to know when you want to fly your flag correctly. It shows respect to flag code guidelines and ensures you are avoiding common mistakes. This guide will help you understand the rules when flying or displaying your flag.
Q: How to display the American Flag on a house
A: The American Flag should be positioned on the viewer’s left when facing the front of the building. Whether it is hung horizontally or vertically, the blue union with stars should be in the top left position from the viewer’s perspective. It should be displayed flat and not draped. Do not allow the flag to touch the ground or floor.
Q: How to display the American Flag with other flags and in what order
A: On American soil, the American Flag always takes precedence. It should occupy the position of highest honor, which may be the highest point, the center and highest point of a grouped display, or the flag’s own right (viewer’s left). When displayed with flags of other nations in times of peace, the American Flag should be flown at equal height and be of approximately equal size.
When state, local, or society flags are flown on the same halyard rope, the American Flag must always be at the top.
When displayed in a line, the order of precedence from the flag’s own right (viewer’s left) is as follows: the American Flag, followed by flags of other nations, state flags, military flags, municipal flags and organizational flags.
Q: How to display your flag at night
A: The American Flag is traditionally displayed from sunrise to sunset. However, the flag may be displayed at night if it is properly illuminated.
Q: How to display your flag in bad weather
A: Yes. The flag should not be displayed on days when the weather is inclement, unless it is considered an all-weather flag.
Q: The difference between indoor and outdoor flags
A: You can identify outdoor flags by the grommets on one end, also known as the heading. These flags are sturdy enough to withstand outside weather conditions. However, it is perfectly acceptable to display an outdoor flag inside or hang it on a wall.
Most indoor flags have a pole sleeve (to slip over the pole on which it is displayed) and gold fringe around the edges. They are not made to be flown outside because the wind will damage the flag and fringe. Indoor flags are intended to be used for auditoriums, podiums, parades and other ceremonial use.
Q: The 3 main flag fabrics
A: Nylon is a lightweight fabric with a sheen that flies easily in light to moderate breezes. It is a durable fabric for outdoor display and the most commonly used flag material.
Polyester is a heavy-duty fabric designed for stronger wind conditions. This durable fabric has a matte finish that resembles a vintage cotton flag. Polyester is best suited for use with commercial flagpoles and open areas that experience sustained wind. It is not suitable for hanging on a house-mounted flagpole.
Cotton is a natural fabric known for its traditional, vintage appearance. Because cotton flags don't weather well, we only recommend them for ceremonial and indoor use.
Q: The difference between single-reverse and double-sided flags
A: Single Reverse flags are made with a single layer of fabric, allowing you to view the design from both front and back. The image and text read correctly left to right on the front side, while the back side displays the image in reverse. This is the standard for printed flags.
On a double-sided flag, the text reads correctly from left to right on both sides. It is made by sewing two printed flags back-to-back, with a liner sewn in between to prevent shadowing.
Q: Can the flag be on clothing or costumes?
A: The American Flag may appear on clothing, but it should not be used AS clothing. The United States Flag Code discourages the use of the American Flag as clothing, costumes or athletic uniforms. A flag patch can be affixed to the uniforms of military personnel, first responders, and members of patriotic organizations. Lapel pins should be worn on the left lapel closest to the heart.
Q: How to wash your flag
A: Wash your outdoor flag on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Remove it promptly when the cycle is finished to prevent color bleeding. Lay the flag flat in a clean, well-ventilated area to air dry. Take your indoor flags to a professional dry-cleaning service.
Q: How to store your flag
A: Clean the flag before placing it into long-term storage. Use a traditional triangular fold. Store the flag in acid-free paper or cotton bags in a cool, dry location.
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