How to Dispose of a United State Flag

Flying the United States flag is a sign of respect to the country. When a U.S. flag is looking worn or tattered, it is time to replace it with a new one. There is a proper way to dispose of a worn-out United States flag.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Take the United States flag down, and replace it with a new one when you see signs of wear. It needs to be disposed of in a fitting way that shows respect. Do not just throw it in the garbage.

2. Contact your local VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars), Girl Scout or Boy Scout Troop, Knights of Columbus or Local Elks club to see if they offer the disposal service and ceremony for worn-out United States flags. Retired flags are often disposed of on the 14th of June--Flag Day. They are burned or buried, often in an official ceremony.

3. Do not burn all flags. Wool and cotton flags can be burned. Many flags are now made of materials that contain hazardous petroleum-based chemicals such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. These are released into the atmosphere in gaseous form when burned. This includes nylon and plastic flags. Some areas forbid the burning of nylon.

4. Consider making a small donation to the organization you use for the proper disposal of your old United States flag.

Tips & Warnings

• Some United States flags are historically significant. Before you dispose of old ones that you may have found, check into their history, and make sure you are not discarding a United States flag that has special historical or monetary value.