How to Iron a Flag | Remove Wrinkles from Flags with Ease!

Preparation 

You are going to want to set up an ironing board. If you do not have one, you can use another surface with a towel on it to provide a softer and more flexible workspace. You’ll need an iron with a spray function or an iron and spray bottle. 

Warnings 

✅  Do your homework, not all countries find ironing their flag to be respectful. 

✅  Do perform a heat test before you begin. 

✅  Do set your iron to its lowest possible heat setting. 

✅  Do use a bedsheet for extra protection if you’re inexperienced with an iron. 

❌  Don’t leave the iron in one spot too long because you can risk burning the flag. 

❌  Don’t let the flag touch the ground. 

Step 1: Prepare the Work Space 

You are going to want to set up an ironing board. If you do not have one, you can use another surface with a towel on it to provide a softer and more flexible workspace. 

It is essential that you use the steam function when you iron your flag. If your iron does not have this function, you can use a spray bottle by spraying down the entire surface of your flag so that it is slightly damp. 

Step 2: Perform the Iron Heat Test 

Make sure to set your iron to its lowest possible heat setting so you don’t risk overheating your flag and/or burning it.

IRON HEAT TEST: Give the iron the necessary time to heat up. In general, your iron will heat up in about two minutes. Start with a test spot on a stitched edge or hoist just to make sure your iron does not run too hot. If it is too hot you can throw a sheet over the top of the flag to add an extra layer of protection. 

Step 3: Iron the Flag 

After your iron passes the heat test, you can then begin ironing your flag. Use slow back and forth motions with a little bit of pressure. Don’t leave the iron in one spot too long because you can risk burning the flag. 

Make sure you always have your other hand on the flag so that it doesn’t fall on the floor off of your iron board. For most national flags it is prohibited and disrespectful to allow your flag to touch the ground. 

Step 4: Keep Going 

Keep adjusting the flag as needed to make sure the entire surface gets ironed properly. Don’t forget to use steam or your spray bottle when you move to another section of your flag. 

Remember to be patient. Just keep working the creases and always keep the iron moving so that you don’t burn your flag. 

Step 5: Iron the Reverse Side (optional) 

When you finish with the side you are working on, you may want to flip the flag over and repeat the process for the other side. This helps to work out any remaining stubborn creases without having to increase the heat on your iron. 

Step 6: Fly Your Flag Proudly!