Everything You Need to Know About Properly Folding and Storing an American Flag

Folding and storing an American flag is not just about neatness – it’s a sign of respect and honor, as well as a way to preserve the flag’s condition for as long as possible. Whether you fly the flag on patriotic holidays like Memorial Day or Fourth of July and then store it away, or if you have a flag that you only bring out for special occasions, it’s essential to know the correct way to fold and store it properly.

If you’ve ever seen the traditional way of folding an American flag into a tidy triangle shape but weren’t quite sure about the technique, you’re in the right place. In this article, we will guide you through the process step by step. But before we dive into the folding method, let’s cover some important basics to ensure your flag is ready for the process.

Step 1: Preparing Your Flag for Folding

• Check for damage: Before folding the flag, inspect it to make sure there are no rips, tears, or holes. If your flag is damaged, consider repairing it or retiring it properly before folding.
• Clean and dry: Ensure that the flag is clean and dry. If it’s dirty, gently hand wash it with mild detergent and let it air dry completely before proceeding with the folding process.

Step 2: Folding the Flag – The Right Way

Now that your flag is in good condition, let’s begin the folding process.

1. Place the Flag on a Flat Surface:
   Before starting, lay the flag on a clean, flat surface with the face side up and the blue section at the top. Smooth out any creases, wrinkles, or folds, and ensure that the flag is fully flat and smooth.

2. Make the First Fold in Half:
   Take the bottom two corners of the flag and fold them up to meet the top two corners, creating a long rectangle. Ensure that the corners are aligned perfectly, and run your hand across the fold to secure it. Smooth out any wrinkles.

3. Fold Again in Half:
   Once you have the first fold, repeat the process by taking the bottom two corners (red and white stripes) and folding them up to meet the top two corners. You should now have a long, skinny rectangle with the blue and white stars section visible on both sides. Smooth out the fold and ensure all corners align perfectly.

4. Start the Triangular Fold:
   Beginning at the right end of the flag, fold the bottom right corner up to the top folded edge, creating a triangular fold. Make sure the top of the triangle aligns with the top of the flag, then smooth out the fold and press down neatly.

5. Continue the Triangular Folding:
   Proceed by folding the top right corner (red and white tip) inward to the left, creating the second triangle. Repeat this folding method, ensuring each fold is smooth and flat.

6. The Last Fold:
   Once you reach the end of the flag, make a final fold to create a triangle with only the blue and white section visible. Flatten out the flag, ensuring all folds are neat and there are no creases on either side.

Step 3: How to Store a Folded Flag

Now that your flag is properly folded, it’s time to store it correctly to protect it from damage and preserve its integrity.

• Storage Location: Store the folded flag in a cool, dark area away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and keep it dry to avoid mildew.
• Protective Options: Consider using a clear plastic bag or plastic container to provide additional protection against dust and moisture. Alternatively, display the flag in a case designed specifically for folded flags, usually made of wood and customizable for personalized meaning.

By following these steps and recommendations for folding and storing your American flag, you can show the proper respect for this symbolic piece of history and ensure it remains in excellent condition for years to come. Whether you display your flag proudly on patriotic occasions or keep it stored away, knowing the right way to handle and care for it is essential.