Understanding the Trademark Class for Flags: Which One Applies?

Flags are more than just symbols - they often represent identity, heritage, and brand values. For businesses using flags in products like household textiles, apparel, or decorative items, it’s essential to understand the trademark class they fall under.

Choosing the correct trademark class not only protects your goods and services but also ensures compliance with intellectual property (IP) laws.

This guide will help you navigate the process of understanding the trademark class for flags, and explore where they fit in the trademark system.

Why trademark classes matter

Trademark classes, defined by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), categorize goods and services into distinct groups for easier identification and protection. For businesses, selecting the right trademark class ensures that your products - whether made of textile materials or decorative items - are adequately protected. Since the use of flags can be regulated, correctly classifying your items is vital to ensuring you're following trademark law.

Class 24, often called the "textile class," is generally the go-to for products featuring flags. It includes items like household linen, table covers, mattress covers, and textile curtains as well. This class can protect everything from printed calico cloth to non-woven textile fabrics and textile towels. However, other classes might also apply depending on how the flag is used.

General flag-based products and their trademark classes

Flag-themed products vary widely, from textiles to decorative items, and each has a specific trademark class. Here’s a breakdown:

Class 24: Textiles and linens

This is the primary category for flag-based products made of textiles, covering:

• Household linen: Items like bed linen, bath linens, and table linen.
• Textile goods: Examples include printed calico cloth, non-woven textile fabrics, and textile curtains.
• Decorative covers: Wall hangings of textiles, pillow shams, and table runners featuring flag designs fit here.

Examples: A flag-printed cover or door curtain would fall under Class 24.

Class 25: Apparel and accessories

Flags used on clothing belong in Class 25, which includes:

• Readymade garments: lag-printed shirts, jackets, or hats. This is often referred to as the readymade garments trademark class.
• Accessories: Items such as scarves or gloves with flag patterns.

Class 26: Decorative items

For ornamental products, such as embroidered flags, net curtains, or traced cloth, Class 26 applies. This category is perfect for:

• Decorative textiles: Used for embellishments or personal touches in households.
• Accessories: Items like face towels with decorative flag motifs.

Are country flags eligible for exclusive trademark protection?

National flags themselves typically cannot be trademarked, as they’re considered public domain symbols available for use by everyone.

When to consult a trademark attorney for flag-based products

Trademarking flag-based products can be complex, as it involves navigating different classes. That's why working with a trademark attorney can make all the difference. Our skilled attorneys guide you in selecting the right class, protecting against trademark infringement, and ensuring your flag-inspired products comply with all legal standards. For instance, if you're unsure whether your product should be in Class 24 for household textiles or Class 26 for decorative goods, our attorneys can help identify the best fit.

Protecting your brand with Trademarkia

Trademarking items with flags can be straightforward if you understand the correct classes. Whether Class 24 for household textiles, Class 25 for garments, or coordinated classes for unique products, having the right protection ensures your brand stands out. Trademarkia provides the tools, resources, and expertise to secure your products. Get started with your trademark registration today.

Additional resources

• What Are the Various USPTO Trademark Classes?