Shag rugs bring a warm atmosphere to any room, but they require regular maintenance , and cleaning them can be a bit tricky.
To make it easier for you, follow these simple steps to learn how to effectively clean a shag carpet .
Summary :
- How to clean a shag carpet: precautions to take
- How to Clean a Shag Carpet Step by Step
- How to Clean a Shag Carpet: Deep Cleaning
How to clean a shag carpet: precautions to take
The most appreciated feature of shag rugs is their softness , but this is also what makes them more complicated to clean. Due to the length and density of their fibers , stains are easily hidden and complicate the cleaning process. If you clean them like any other rug, you risk damaging them and losing their pile.
However, using the right methods, you can preserve their natural softness for many years. It is also important that there is no universal solution for cleaning shag carpets, since these carpets can have different shapes, sizes, compositions...
To maintain its cleanliness and softness, it is strongly recommended to clean your shag carpet at least once a year .
How to Clean a Shag Carpet Step by Step
Shag rugs tend to get dirty quickly, so it's best to clean them regularly and frequently . Once a shag rug is covered in dirt or stains, it can be difficult to restore its original softness.
Step 1: Shake the mat
An old trick for cleaning a shag rug is to shake it. Take your rug outside and shake it vigorously to remove dirt , dust, and crumbs. If your rug is too bulky to shake by hand, try hanging it on a clothesline and sweeping up the dirt with a broom.
Enjoy a moment of softness with this long-haired round rug .
Step 2: Vacuum
Now it’s time to vacuum your shag carpet, but do it carefully. The process of vacuuming a shag carpet is significantly different than other carpets, as the long hairs can easily get caught and alter the shape of the carpet. Use a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for shag carpets . We recommend using a vacuum cleaner that is designed for these types of carpets.
To remove dirt and debris stuck in the pile of your shag carpet, follow these steps:
- Roll up your mat and set it aside.
- Place a large sheet on the floor where the rug was previously located.
- Unroll the mat on the sheet, making sure the soft side is facing down. You should now see the back of the mat.
- Use a vacuum cleaner to go over the back of the carpet. This step helps dislodge any dirt or debris stuck in the carpet pile.
- Roll the mat up again and place it on its side.
- Now vacuum up any dirt that has accumulated on the sheet.
- Continue unrolling the rug and vacuuming the backing until there is no visible dirt on the sheet.
- Once this is done, remove the sheet and unroll the rug, this time with the face facing up.
If at any time you notice any damage to your shag carpet during this process, it is recommended that you call a professional carpet cleaning company .
Step 3: Remove Stains
To remove stains from your shag carpet, follow these tips:
- Act quickly: The faster you act, the better your chances of removing the stain. Use a clean microfiber cloth and a spray bottle of carpet cleaner to gently dab at the stains and remove the dirt.
- For stubborn stains, spray the cleaner directly onto the affected area. Allow to work according to the product instructions to thoroughly break down the stain, then blot the area with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Repeat the process of spraying with carpet cleaner and blotting until the stain is completely removed.
If you prefer to use homemade cleaning methods, you can try a simple 1:1 mixture of warm water and white vinegar . Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray it directly onto the stain. Start with a few sprays and add more as needed.
How to Clean a Shag Carpet: Deep Cleaning
If you have a shag carpet and you think it is beyond repair, don't lose hope! There are specific instructions for deep cleaning your shag carpet .
Check the carpet label for recommended cleaning methods. If water is listed as the appropriate method, you can rent a carpet cleaner and use a mixture of warm water and shampoo specifically designed for carpets.
After cleaning, be sure to let your rug dry completely outside. If the instructions for cleaning your shag rug are unclear, it is best to call in professionals to take care of it.