People love shag rugs because they are very soft and have a deep fluffy texture. Rugs made from these fibers look great and help make any room feel both warm and cozy. Shag rugs appeal a lot to some people, but it is still harder to clean them than low-pile or flat-weave rugs.
Cleaning your shag rug in the right way protects the fluff and removes the buildup of grime, dirt and stains from deep inside the fibers. Both homeowners and renters can keep their shag rugs clean and comfy by learning how to clean a shag rug effectively.
We’ll discuss the tools, everyday tips, cleaning instructions and great shag rugs from Ownkoti in this guide. We are ready to move forward!
Preparation of Cleaning Tools and Cleaning Detergents
Having the right supplies on hand before cleaning your shag rug will help keep your rug safe and make the process easier.
Essential Cleaning Tools:
Vacuum Cleaner with Attachments: With a vacuum that has a hose and brush, it is easy to get deep into shag fibers without hurting them. Avoid vacuum cleaners that have spinning brushes that might get caught in your carpet.
Soft-Bristle Brush or Carpet Rake: Efficient for bringing out dirt and softening fibers after you clean the rug.
Mild Detergent or Rug Shampoo: Choose a softener solution or detergent that is designed for fragile rugs and doesn’t harm them. Tough chemicals can wear away the fibers.
Spray Bottle: For using cleaning solutions effectively in specific areas or deep cleaning.
Clean White Cloths or Towels: Use them to remove stains and get rid of dampness without transferring color.
Bucket or Basin: Combine cleaning liquids or have small areas of a rug soak in the solution.
Fan or Drying Rack: This helps dry your washing quickly, so mold and mildew are less likely to grow.
These tools will greatly help you clean your shag rug in a much safer way.
Basic Cleaning
Looking after your shag rug often helps you avoid harsh cleaning and keeps its quality and appearance top-notch.
Vacuuming Your Shag Rug
Frequency: If more people pass through the room, vacuum your shag rug once or twice a week.
Technique: Use the vacuum hose with a brush on low suction when cleaning. Gently pass the machine on the area rugs without pressing heavily on it. Don’t use the rotating brush to prevent your fibers from getting damaged.
Vacuum Both Sides: Occasionally, you should flip the rug, vacuum the backside and remove any dirt and dust that may be stuck inside.
Spot Cleaning Tips
Immediate Action: Use a clean, dry cloth to blot immediately any spills you find.
Gentle Cleaner: Put some diluted mild detergent or carpet cleaner onto a clean piece of cloth and very gently press onto the stain to remove it—don’t rub since that could cause matting in the fibers.
Rinse and Dry: Soak a cloth with water and use it to blot the detergent, then dry with a towel. Leave to air dry properly so that moisture damage won’t happen.
Fluffing Your Rug
Following your cleaning, soft-brush or rake the rug to help raise and divide the shag fibers, making the rug look plush once more.
Formal Cleaning: Step-by-Step Deep Clean for Your Shag Rug
If you’re giving your shag rug a thorough wash, take these steps to be sure you don’t harm its delicate fibers.
Step 1: Shake and Dust
Bring the rug outside and work up a vigorous shaking to remove dust.
To swipe out the dirt that is stuck inside, use a carpet rake or broom across the carpet.
Step 2: Vacuum
Use the vacuum to clean both sides lightly.
Step 3: Prepare Cleaning Solution
Use only a little mild detergent and warm water in a bucket to clean the tools.
Step 4: Spot Test
Apply the cleaning mixture to a hidden area first to make sure it doesn’t harm or fade the color.
Step 5: Apply Cleaner
Spray the solution lightly onto the surface of your rug. Don’t let the fibers absorb a lot of water.
Step 6: Gently Scrub
Brush the cleaner deep into your carpet with a soft-bristle brush, following the exact direction of the fibers.
Step 7: Rinse
Use a damp cloth to blot the area where the soap is sitting. Repeat until all of the suds disappear.
Step 8: Dry
Blot up as much water as you can with towels and let the rug lie flat to dry outside. Do not place your rug where it might be exposed to bright sunlight or heat.
Make sure both sides of the rug are drying by flipping it occasionally.
Step 9: Fluff and Groom
Gently brush or rake the area once it is dry to make the pile look fuller.
Recommendation of Easy-to-Care Long-Haired Carpets
Shag rugs are a favorite for many consumers, but some find them hard to look after. But you can still enjoy shag rugs without the stress, thanks to Ownkoti’s trusted collections.
Machine-washable synthetic shag rugs: These rugs are made from polyester or polypropylene and stay bright and stainless, even after washings.
Low-shed wool shag rugs: Wool resists stains, lasts longer and sheds little compared to standard shag carpets.
Blended fiber shag rugs: When you choose synthetic-natural blends, clothes are soft, last longer and are simpler to maintain.
At Ownkoti, you can find a beautiful variety of long-haired rugs made of simple materials and in a number of sizes you want for your space. Look through their full area rugs collection to discover styles that are soft to sit on and also keep clean easily.
Recommended best-selling products:
Vintage Garden Washable Durable Anti-slip Area Rug
Retro Garden Foldable Anti-slip Area Rug
Floral Water Resistant Washable Anti-slip Area Rug
FAQ
How often should you clean your shag rug?
Vacuum your shag rug every week to keep dust and dirt away. Vacuum after every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage.
Can Shag Rugs Be Machine Washed?
Most shag rugs should be handled by hand instead of using a washer because they are large and made from long fibers. It’s best to use hand cleaning or do spot treatments instead. Look at the care label which the manufacturer almost always provides.
How Do I Remove Tough Stains from a Shag Rug?
When you spill, blot it as fast as you can. If something is really stuck to the carpet, use a solution of detergent and water or a special stain remover that won’t harm your rug. Clean gently, and don’t use anything too strong. If stains remain despite your best efforts, calling a professional is a good idea.
What Are Tips for Keeping a Shag Rug Fluffy and New?
- Use the hose attachment when vacuuming.
- Regularly comb fluff fibers on your carpet with a carpet rake or a soft brush.
- Rotating your rug every couple of months will make sure it wears evenly.
- Do not put large furniture on your carpet that might flatten it.
Read more: