Banners are everywhere these days, often beautifully fluttering in the wind, drawing the eye towards some feature event or promotion.  Banners are among the most popular and inexpensive ways to advertise or promote business, church or local events. Here are a few points about how to care for banners, if you have not used a banner before. Be certain that your banner is securely anchored, especially if used outdoors.  You wouldn't want it to fly off in a strong gust of wind or sail into someone or something causing harm.  If you are attaching the banner between two structures, be aware that the force of the wind can be significant and exert considerable force.  You ought to be certain that the structure to which you have attached the banner can take the load and won’t get pulled down or get damaged.  Banners should be taut but not without some sag.  A bit of slight sagging is inevitable. Unless you chose a mesh banner, wind holes may be necessary depending upon the location.  Mesh banners are designed for fairly constant wind, and mesh styles usually have a bit less print or graphic definition than other cloth or vinyl type banners.  The reason is the mesh, and the advantage is their construction for frequent and strong breeze environments.  For vinyl and other cloth styles, wind holes must be carefully and judiciously cut to allow the wind to flow through.  Even those will rip if the location chosen is so windy that the wind degrades the material quickly. Occasional or periodic cleaning of a banner helps to extend the life of the banner and keep it looking sharp.  Water and a mild detergent is best.  Avoid harsh solvents.  Certain cloth banners can be cleaned using a gentle cycle in a washing machine. Roll the banner for storage, especially when it is vinyl.  Banners should not be folded.  Optimally, the best method is to roll the banner around a tube that is about 4” to 5" in diameter.  When a banner is lettered with vinyl graphics, one should then roll it with a sheet of paper or some kind of liner across the face in order to prevent any adhesive that may be along the edge of the letters from sticking to itself.  Roll the banners with the graphics facing outward. Try to be realistic in your expectations of a banner.  It is not meant to be a permanent sign, and when the banner is outside, it is subject to nature’s demands.  While It should not be considered a substitute for a permanent sign, you can enjoy its use for a long time with proper care. Let your flags fly, and let the colors waft in the breeze.  Enjoy the spectacle. Not a lot beats a sunny and clear day with banner flags fluttering and offering a great visual and unique promotion of your product or service or event.