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Writer's pictureTidy Haus

Shag Rug Care 101: A Comprehensive Guide on Cleaning

Updated: Jul 17


Maintaining the pristine appearance of your shag rug goes beyond just vacuuming.

To keep your shag area rug looking its best for years to come, try these tips:


Shag rugs are known for their softness and comfort. But as anyone who owns a shag rug knows, maintaining its luxurious appearance over time requires lots of effort. Before diving into cleaning your beloved shag rug, it’s crucial to ensure your vacuum is up to the task. Not all vacuums can handle shag rugs effectively. Specifically, you need one equipped with an upholstery attachment to ensure thorough cleaning. If your vacuum lacks this, it won’t effectively remove debris from your shag rug's long pile.


Pick up any larger pieces of debris, so you don’t clog your vacuum attachment. While this step may seem tedious, it can save you from expensive vacuum repairs or replacements. Also, make sure to adjust your vacuum attachment to the correct upholstery setting before using it on your shag rug.


Begin by turning the rug upside down so that the shag side is facing the floor, exposing the back area. This allows gravity to assist in loosening trapped dirt and debris from within the rug's fibres, ensuring a more effective cleaning process when you vacuum.


Use your feet to secure the edges if necessary. When you’re finished vacuuming the back of the rug, you can roll it up and set it aside. Then vacuum the floor underneath your rug.


Reposition and unroll your shag rug. Then, using a brush attachment, gently vacuum the surface. Vacuum in all directions to effectively clean the shag pile. Excessive suction can permanently damage the shag fibres, so test a small, hidden area first if you're unsure about your brush attachment. Always review the care instructions for your shag rug before vacuuming.


  • Give your rug a good shake or beat it outside to remove trapped dirt

  • Use a non-slip rug pad to prevent slipping

  • Dab stains with a dry cloth instead of rubbing, and consider using a mild carpet cleaner or a mixture of water and mild dish soap for tough stains

  • Consider professional steam cleaning to deeply clean and rejuvenate your rug periodically

  • Rotate your rug 180 degrees every 6-12 months for even wear

  • Use window treatments like curtains or blinds to shield your rug from the sun

  • Trim loose threads or snags to prevent further damage

  • Always check your rug's care instructions for specific cleaning recommendations



By following these tips as part of your regular cleaning routine, you can ensure that your shag rug remains cozy and appealing for years to come.



white shag rug

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