What Is Really The United States Flag?

I really wonder what truly is an American flag?
With every store, like the Wal-Mart and K-Mart, to the mom and pop stores, to almost every other kind of store, including As Seen On TV stores, are all the flags sold there worthy to be called an American flag?
From the Kingman Daily Miner:
There are many Mohave County residents who believe they are patriotic by flying American flags to show their support, respect and their pride in America.
After running the flag up their poles, however, it is sad they quickly forget they are there.
When people choose to fly the American flag, they must remember no disrespect should be shown to the flag of the Untied States of America.
Flags should be replaced when they are worn and tattered. Many residents are unknowingly violating the provisions and spirit of the U.S. Flag Code.
Old Glory is the great emblem and symbol of our nation and the essence of freedom. It represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing.
The U.S. Flag Code is a guide for all handling and displaying of the Stars and Stripes. The federal government does not impose penalties for misuse of the United States flag. There are no flag police, but common sense should and must prevail.  http://kdminer.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=797&ArticleID=67261
So, should the puny flags sold by the big box stores, the ones that are 4 inches by 4 inches and sold in the bargain bin be treated the same way as the big U.S. flags that measure feet by feet in size?  What happens if they don't sell, can these box store flags throw out these flags?
Should a 'As Seen On TV" flag that waves and is made out of plastic or metal, should that be treated as a U.S. flag that deserves respect?
The idea of the grand old flag is no longer a singular concept.  I agree that that large flags that are flown should be given respect but what about the bargain bin flags that are sold on sale of $1.00 or flags that are part of a shirt, a mechanical flag that flaps when you push a button or other flags that are the grand old large flags ugly cousin?
Please enlighten me.