Knitted Polyester Gibraltar Flag

For lasting quality and vibrant colours of the Gibraltar flag, please follow these care guidelines:

1. Cleaning:
   • Gentle Washing: Use a mild detergent to clean the flag and minimise fading. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can damage the colours.
   • Machine Wash: If machine washing is necessary, opt for a gentle cycle using cold water. Place the flag in a mesh laundry bag to prevent snagging.
   • Air Drying: Lay the flag flat or hang it to dry naturally. Avoid tumble drying, as high heat can shrink or harm the fabric.
2. Storage:
   • Proper Storage: Make sure the flag is completely dry before storing it. Keep it in a cool, dry, and safe place to prevent moisture damage.
3. Folding the Gibraltar Flag:
   • Start with a Clean Flag: Ensure that the flag is clean and dry before folding to prevent any dirt or moisture from causing damage during storage.
   • Lay the Flag Flat: Place the flag on a clean, flat surface with the emblem facing upwards to maintain its integrity.
   • Fold in Half Lengthwise: Bring the bottom edge of the flag up to meet the top edge, creating a long rectangle. Make sure the colours and emblem are facing inward to protect them during storage.
   • Smooth Out Creases: Run your hands along the fold to smooth out any creases or air bubbles, ensuring the flag is neatly folded.
   • Fold in Half Again: Take the newly formed rectangle and fold it in half again from left to right, aligning the edges carefully to keep the shape even.
   • Create Smaller Folds: Starting from one end, make accordion-style folds, approximately 12 inches wide, until you reach the opposite end. This will create a compact, manageable size for storage.
   • Secure the Folded Flag: Once completely folded, use a soft cotton or fabric band to tie around the flag gently, ensuring it stays neatly folded without creasing the fabric.
   • Store in a Protective Bag: Place the folded flag into a breathable storage bag or a cotton pillowcase to protect it from dust and moisture while allowing for air circulation.
4. Handling:
   • Avoid Sharp Objects: Keep the flag away from sharp objects or rough surfaces that might cause snags or tears.
   • Secure Installation: Ensure the flag is firmly attached when displayed, preventing undue strain on the fabric.
   • Minimise Exposure: Remove the flag during severe weather conditions or overnight to protect its integrity.
5. Repairs:
   • Minor Repairs: For small tears or fraying, consider replacing the flag and take the damaged one to a professional seamstress for mending.
   • Replacement: When the flag shows significant wear, it’s advisable to purchase a new one to ensure it looks its best during important events.

Flying the Gibraltar Flag:

• Raising the Flag:
  • Begin by ensuring the flagpole is sturdy and free from obstructions.
  • Using the Header with Loops: If your flag has a header with loops, thread the halyard through the reinforced loops at the top of the flag. Ensure the loops are securely attached to the halyard before raising the flag.
  • Using the Vertical Sleeve: For flags with a vertical sleeve, slide the flag down the flagpole through the sleeve. Make sure the sleeve is positioned at the top of the pole, then hoist the flag to the desired height.
  • Avoid letting the flag touch the ground during the process, as it is a sign of disrespect.
• Displaying the Flag:
  • When displayed horizontally, ensure the flag’s emblem is at the centre, facing outward.
  • Make sure the flag is taut and free from wrinkles or folds to present a clean, respectful appearance.
• Flying the Flag Half-Mast:
  • To lower the flag to half-mast, first raise it to the peak for a brief moment before lowering it to the halfway point on the flagpole.
  • Ensure the flag remains at half-mast during the period of mourning or remembrance, typically from sunrise to sunset, unless otherwise specified.
  • When lowering the flag from half-mast, again raise it briefly to the top before bringing it down entirely as a mark of respect.
• Flag Etiquette During Sunrise and Sunset:
  • For sunrise, the flag should be raised at dawn, immediately following the first light of day, to signify the start of the day.
  • At sunset, lower the flag at dusk, ensuring it is taken down respectfully and securely folded if it will not be displayed again until the next day.
  • During these times, take a moment to salute or stand in quiet respect for the flag and what it represents.
• Weather Conditions:
  • Avoid flying the flag during severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds, or storms, as these can cause damage to the fabric.
  • If bad weather is imminent, lower the flag promptly and store it in a safe, dry place to prevent wear or deterioration.
  • During particularly windy conditions, consider using a flag designed for high winds, or remove the flag entirely to preserve its condition.
• Retirement of the Flag:
  • When the flag becomes worn, faded, or tattered, it should be retired respectfully and not discarded casually.
  • A fitting retirement method is to burn the flag in a dignified ceremony, allowing it to be returned to the earth in a respectful manner.
  • Alternatively, you may choose to consult local organisations or flag disposal services that conduct proper retirement ceremonies to honour the flag’s service.

By adhering to these care guidelines, your flag will maintain its vibrant colours and remain in excellent condition for many years. Taking care of your flag is not only about preservation but also about honouring the pride and heritage it represents.

Order Your Gibraltar Flag Today

Celebrate your national pride with our high-quality, eye-catching flags. Contact Evan Evans to order your flag and make Gibraltar’s symbol truly stand out!