We all know the American flag deserves respect, but sometimes it’s hard to remember the finer details of proper etiquette. 

Whether you’re displaying the flag at home, at work, or during special events, here’s a useful guide to help you do it right.

The Do’s

• Do display the flag from sunrise to sunset. If you keep it up at night, make sure it’s illuminated.
  
  

• Do raise the flag briskly and lower it ceremoniously. These small gestures honor the symbol.
  
  

• Do fold the flag properly. The traditional triangle fold is a sign of respect.
  
  

• Do place the flag above all other flags. On the same pole, no other flag should fly higher.
  
  

• Do salute or place your hand over your heart. When the flag passes in a parade or during the national anthem, show your respect.
  
  

• Do keep the flag clean and in good condition. Replace it if it becomes torn, faded, or soiled.

The Don’ts

• Don’t fly a damaged flag. A flag that’s tattered or discolored should be retired respectfully.
  
  

• Don’t let the flag touch the ground. It’s a matter of honor to keep it elevated.
  
  

• Don’t use the flag as clothing, bedding, or drapery. Decorative designs are fine, but the flag itself should never be worn.
  
  

• Don’t mark the flag. No writing, logos, or images should be added.
  
  
  

• Don’t dip the flag to any person or object. The American flag bows to no one.
  
  

Special Occasions

• Memorial Day: Fly the flag at half-staff until noon, then raise it to full-staff.
  
  

• Independence Day: Display your flag proudly from every home and business.
  
  

• Veterans Day: Honor those who served by raising the flag in their memory.
  
  

Retiring a Flag Respectfully

When a flag is no longer fit to fly, it should be retired with dignity, typically through burning in a respectful ceremony. Reach out to your local veterans’ organizations or Boy Scout troops if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself. They regularly retire flags in dignified ceremonies. 

Learning these simple do’s and don’ts helps us honor the symbol of our nation... 

And when we show the flag respect, we’re also showing respect to the values it represents.

If it’s time to replace your American flag, replace it with a flag made in America, hand-sewn by master flagmakers who take pride in their craft and in their employee-owned business.

Explore our wide selection of durable, American-made flags today, and display your pride with confidence.