This buying guide covers all the essential information you need to get your hands on to buy the best American flag.
What Should You Consider While Buying the Best American Flag?
A lot of work goes into making American flags, so you must be aware of some critical points which can help you figure out the best American flags in no time.
Durable Fabric
The most important thing you need to keep in mind while buying an American flag is the durability of its fabric. If the material is sturdy enough, it can withstand harsh conditions without excessive wear and tear. Always choose a quality fabric; ones like polyester and nylon tend to hold up better long-term.
Weather Conditions
Some flags truly fly in windy conditions, while others lose their charm when you hang them in hot places. Make sure that the flag you're intending to buy will stand up to the elements typically encountered in your area.
Fade Resistance
Make sure that the flag you buy is fade-resistant. It means that the flag won't lose its colors when flown in sunny weather or when it comes in contact with water. The easiest way to do this is to avoid flags made of inferior materials, though you should be aware that this will increase the initial cost of purchasing the flag.
Where It's Made
There's nothing illegal about buying a foreign-made American flag, but with so many quality manufacturers offering genuine US-made flags, there's really no good reason to settle for one made overseas. Keep in mind that the flag you're purchasing symbolizes everything that America stands for; why not keep Americans employed and paid at the same time?
What Fabrics are Used in the Making of American Flags?
Here are some of the primary fabrics that are typically used in the composition of American flags:
Nylon
Nylon flags are the most popular choice for modern-day patriotism. They provide advantages such as less weight and faster drying time due to their material properties. This makes them suitable for lower winds or if you want your flag flying high even during a heavy downpour.
Nylon also has an advantage over other types of banner fabric; it can withstand elements like UV rays that cause problems with lighter fabrics. So aside from being brighter than anything else on land, nylon still looks good after enduring several months without fading away into oblivion at sunset.
Polyester
Polyester is one of the most durable fabric choices for flags available on the market. This luxurious, breathable material provides brighter colors and is fade-resistant. Unlike other fabrics that become brittle or discolored over time, the polyester US flag will stay as good as new. It can bear harsh weather conditions such as humidity in summer heatwaves with ease.
Cotton
Cotton comes with several praiseworthy qualities. It's a natural fabric and is very soft to the touch. Plus, this fabric adds richness to the color dyed on the flag. However, cotton flags are not meant to be used outdoors. The elements like wind and rain can break them down much faster as compared to synthetic fibers. Hence, they are more suited for indoor use only. So make sure you keep your cotton flag protected by storing it indoors when possible.
How to Take Care of Your American Flag?
American flags are not just mere patches of cloth that are attached to the flag poles. Your pride in your nation, your support for the national heroes, and your love for your homeland - all of these are expressed through the flying of an American flag. That is why you must provide them with proper care and maintenance.
- After a flag is flown, it should be taken down and folded according to the United States Flag Code instructions.
- The flag should then be cleaned and pressed before being stored appropriately.
- Flags that are no longer fit for display due to wear or damage should not be thrown away but instead given to a veterans group or another organization that will dispose of them properly.
- All flags should be disposed of by burning as a ceremony because they can't just go into a landfill like regular trash. If you're not sure how to perform this on your own, refer to the previous point.
- When storing your American flags, make sure you keep them with their stars facing up so they don't get damaged from dust or dirt.
Final Thoughts
The best American flags are the ones that you buy and fly with pride. If you're looking for a flag to purchase, consider what materials are used in its construction. This is important because different fabrics may hold up better against rain or substantial winds than others. If you have made up your mind and want the perfect American flag, you can choose one from our list of best American Flags in 2021.
American Flag FAQ
Q: Which American flag fabric is most suitable for outdoor use?
A: It all depends on the weather conditions in your area. If you live in a place with a harsh environment, then polyester is the ideal fabric. Nylon works best in moderate circumstances, while cotton is generally not suitable for outdoor use.
Q: Can all American flags be washed in a washing machine?
A: Not all American flags are designed to be cleaned in a washing machine. Most of them can only be hand-washed as they might tear apart if you put them in a machine. If you're unsure, check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Q: Can you fly an American flag when it's raining or snowing?
A: Yes, it's possible to fly an American flag when it's raining or snowing, but only if the manufacturer specifically states that the flag is resistant to such weather conditions. Generally speaking, however, you'll want to pull your flag down if you're expecting inclement weather .