Use And Care Manual

GENERAL FLAG CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Olympus Group is proud of its fine craftsmanship and recommends nylon and polyester flags for outdoor use. Our
nylon U.S. flag is made of Solarmax nylon fabric, the most durable and superior nylon flag material available. Its
quick-drying capability and lightweight construction make it an all-weather flag. Printed polycotton flags, although
an economical option, are vibrant prints and designed for holiday or promotional use. With reasonable care, you
can extend the life of a flag. Here are a few tips for all flags:
Preventive Maintenance:
• For longest use, do not fly your flag in periods of rain, snow or abnormally high winds as these conditions
will shorten its life considerably.
• Choose a location away from trees, cables, etc. to install your flagpole to avoid having the flag brush
against rough areas.
• Periodically examine your flags for wear and loose stitching, especially on the fly end. Have the flag
repaired early to extend the life of your flag.
The U.S. Government’s testing standards on the deluxe quality, heavy duty nylon flags reveal that flags are
expected to last approximately 90 days based on daily usage from sunrise to sunset, but not during inclement
weather. Tests have shown that in some cases a flag flown 24 hours a day will last one quarter as long as one
flown only during the day.
Regardless of the quality craftsmanship and the material used for construction, the flag is a textile product and will
age with the various climates and weather conditions. Olympus suggests that preventive maintenance be
completed regularly to prolong the life of a flag. Larger flags (6’x10 and up) are a significant investment and
should be given extra care. Consider having three flags and periodically rotating them for cleaning or repair.
Cleaning
Flags waving in the breeze from a porch flagpole or in the yard eventually become soiled. Whether you are flying
the Stars and Stripes or a decorative garden banner, most outdoor flags are made of sturdy and weather-resistant
nylon. This synthetic polymer fabric doesn't fade easily in the sun and it survives moisture well, but direct heat can
cause it to melt. Nylon flags are usually machine washable, but care must be taken to prevent the colors from
bleeding and to avoid heat damage. Tip: Many professional drycleaners will clean American flags for you free of
charge, and also complete fly end repairs at a nominal charge.
• To keep the flag looking its best, clean your flag on a regular basis. Heavy duty outdoor nylon or polyester
flags can be hand-washed with cold water and mild soap (example: Woolite). Tip: Wash nylon flags
alone. Even though your flags have been pretreated for color fastness, eventually the colors may bleed or
fade. To keep your bright colors looking their best, you can mix one part vinegar into four parts cold water
and soak for an hour.
• Roll the flag in a towel to wring out the water and then spread out allowing the flag to air dry completely.
Do not fold or roll-up a wet or damp flag.
• Indoor parade flags with fringe should be professionally dry cleaned. Promotional quality polyester flags
are designed to be flown outside only for holiday use and will not last as long as the heavy duty nylon or
polyester flags.
• Tip: If you must iron a nylon flag, cover the flag with a towel and use the lowest heat setting possible.
Nylon melts easily beneath the heat of an iron.
Best Regards,
The Olympus Team