Shag rugs add a designer touch and are also warm and cozy underfoota decorating win-win.
The long fibers trap more dust and dirt than flatter weaves.
Realistically, vacuuming a couple of times a week should keep the rug clean.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
A more thorough deep cleaning is recommended monthly or as needed.
An amazing amount of soil will be released.
If you oughta clean your area rug without moving it, go to the next step and vacuum.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
If your vacuum cannot make these adjustments, do not use it this way on a shag rug.
With the proper vacuum configs in place, suction out the dust and dirt.
Work in a grid, go slow, and overlap each stroke to produce the best results.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Don’t forget to vacuum the flooring beneath the rug, too.
Check for and Treat Stains
Flip the rug back over and inspect it for any stains.
Spot treat the stained areas following stain removal guidelines forspecific stains.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Most stains can be removed by mixing a few drops of dishwashing liquid in a cup of warm water.
Dip a soft-bristled brush or microfiber towel in the solution and gently rub the stain.
Instead, use a horsehair upholstery brush, which will be much easier on the fibers.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Never use a rented carpet shampoo/steamer on a shag rug because the suction is too harsh for the fibers.
It’s best to deep clean a deep pile rug by hand using the following steps.
Then bring the rug inside and vacuum both sides of the rug.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
You do not want any moisture to become trapped between the rug and the hardwood floor.
The baking soda will trap dust and neutralize odors.
Allow the baking soda to remain on the rug for at least four hours (overnight is better).
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Shake and vacuum away the powder.
Remember to vacuum both sides of the rug.
It is important to remove all of the shampoo residue to prevent damage to the backing of the rug.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
Use a carpet rake or your hands to lift the pile of the rug so that it is fluffy.
For added cleaning power, addoxygen bleachunless the carpet is made of wool fibers.
This is best for spot-cleaning a shag rug.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
It’s always best to air-dry an area rug outdoors.
It’s advisable to keep even small area rugs out of the dryer and hang them up to air-dry.
The Spruce / Meg MacDonald
