Frequently Asked Questions

We have tried to answer most of the questions we get about our pillows but...we love hearing from you so if you have a question we haven't answered, email us at ann@harpswelldesigns.com.

Q: What is the history of yacht club burgees and code flags?
A: Club burgees, code flats and symbols are steeped in history and tradition. An institution exceeding a century of practice.
 

Yacht Club Burgees                                                                                          
As early as 1875 burgee flags were flown as a distinguishing custom designed flag to indicate the ship owners 'private signal'. This 'private signal', unique to each ship was flown from the tallest mast used as a communication system. The burgee was a signal to help pilot the ship to land, and for safe entry to port the ship was guided by a corresponding code flag signal. Flags were the communication tool at sea and shore, aiding navigation for safe ocean passage (Burgee- French origin 'bourgeois' ship owner).

Starting in the 1900's burgees were flown as a distinguishing flag to indicate a Yacht Club affiliation. Each Club has a unique distinctive pendent design bearing color of the club. The burgee is to indicate a yacht club membership and flown as symbol of the yacht club or sailing organization.
 
International Code Flags                                                             
Code flags originated in the 1800's used as an internationally understood system which include 26 flags. Each flag depicts a letter of the alphabet. The primary colors of red, blue, yellow, black and white are used as due to their vibrancy and ability to be distinguished at sea.
 
Q: What makes Sunbrella ® a quality fabric?
A: Sunbrella fabrics are world-renowned for their incredible versatility, softness, and durability for long-term performance both inside and outdoors. This fabric is solution-dyed acrylic, a distinct dyeing process engineered to provide the following performance qualities. Sunbrella fabrics are made in the USA.

Q: How do I care for my Sunbrella® fabric pillows?                                                                  
A: The fabric dye process is inherently resistant to water, dirt, spills, and stains. If cleaning is necessary, please follow below:
 
Spot Clean
Simply blot liquid spills with a clean, dry cloth or clean dried-on stains with soap and water in combination with a sponge or soft bristle brush. For even more stubborn stains, use a diluted mixture of bleach and water to clean these fabrics without any impact on the color vibrancy.
 
Hand Washing
Soak fabric in a solution of ¼ cup mild soap per gallon of lukewarm water. Use a sponge or soft bristle brush to lightly agitate the spill. Then rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and allow fabric to air dry.
 
Machine Washing
Turn inside out, close zipper. Machine wash cold on delicate cycle with normal amount of laundry detergent. For severe mold or mildew, add ¼ cup bleach. Allow fabric to air dry.
 
For larger spills, 'spot cleaning' is not a problem, with no residual stain! One cup of coffee spilled, rinse with water, light wipe with sponge, use soap, if necessary, air dry- No Stain, Easy!
 
Q: What are Sunbrella's® efforts to reduce environmental impact?
A: The Sunbrella manufacturer, Glen Raven is an environmentally conscious company. Protection of the environment and sustainability is a priority to the manufacturing process. The sustainable practices begin at the South Carolina plant with ongoing efforts to reduce the production carbon footprint.

  • Solar energy utilized to lower carbon emissions. Currently generating energy to power 15 homes.

  • Production process efficiencies divert 90% of waste from landfills, goal for 0% waste-to-landfill company.

  • Manufacturing dye process is unique which conserves more water than the industry traditional dye process.

  • "Recycle My Sunbrella" program allows U.S. customers to return old Sunbrella remnants are repurposed into new recycled new Sunbrella fabrics.

  • Sunbrella® fabrics are GREENGUARD® Gold Certified, which means they meet Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) standards for healthy indoor air quality, they do not emit toxins or carcinogens into the air.

Q: Are Sunbrella® fabric Eco friendly?

A: Yes! All Sunbrella® fabrics are tested and comply with the following certifications:

  • OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified
  • AZO dye free
  • Euro Union REACH compliant
  • GREENGUARD® Gold Certified
  • Non-PFOA solid and Stain Repellent