How to Clean a Shaggy Rug

Shag rugs are back in style and even more spectacular than the 1970s versions. More often sold as an area rug than wall-to-wall carpeting, designers have embraced different materials, from wool to leather, and every color imaginable. Shag rugs add a designer touch and are also warm and cozy underfoot—a decorating win-win.

Because of the long, plushy pile, shag rugs do require more maintenance than thinner, flatter rugs to look good. The long fibers trap more dust and dirt than flatter weaves. Fortunately, the cleaning of shag rugs isn’t difficult, it just requires a bit of time.

How Often to Clean a Shag Rug

Ideally, a shag or frieze pile rug that receives regular foot traffic should be vacuumed daily to keep the pile fluffy and to remove dust and debris, especially if you have pets. Realistically, vacuuming a couple of times a week should keep the rug clean.

Spills and stains should be blotted away as quickly as possible and spot-treated. A more thorough deep cleaning is recommended monthly or as needed.

Routine Shag Rug Cleaning

Shake Away the Dirt

If the rug is small enough to pick up easily, take it outside and give it a good shake. Another way to get rid of dust and dirt trapped in the fibers is to drape the rug over a railing or sturdy clothesline and beat it with a broom or something like that. An amazing amount of soil will be released.

Vacuum the Rug

The best way to vacuum a shag rug is by using a canister vacuum with the hose and upholstery attachment: The more gentle suction will keep the rug loops from being pulled too harshly.

If you only have an upright vacuum, set the cleaning head to the highest pile setting and disengage the beater bar. If your vacuum cannot make these adjustments, do not use it on a shag rug.

With the proper vacuum settings in place, suction out the dust and dirt. Work in a grid, overlapping each stroke to produce the best results.

Turn the rug over and change the vacuum settings to the lowest pile setting, engage the beater bar, and vacuum the underside to trap embedded dirt. Don’t forget to vacuum the flooring beneath the rug, too.