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Cleaning 101: How to Clean a Shag Rug

Discover the ultimate cleaning hacks for shag rugs and carpets.

Shag rugs offer a plush and retro ambience to any space, but cleaning them is where it can get a little fuzzy. Follow our easy steps for a carefree introduction to how to clean a shag rug.

Special Care
Shag Rug Cleaning
Deep Cleaning

Special Care

The softness of shag rugs, which is so adored, is the reason they are so difficult to clean. Shag rugs have a “high pile” which refers to the length and density of fibers. Since the carpet fibers are long and loose, they hide stains and complicate rug cleaning. If cleaned like any other rug, shedding and deterioration will occur, but the right methods will preserve its natural plushness for years to come. Knowing how to clean a shag carpet isn’t a universal skill either; shag rugs tend to come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing professional cleaners to charge more for the care of a shaggy rug.

Tip!

You should clean your shag rug at least once a year.

Shag Rug Cleaning

Shag rugs can dirty so quickly that it is best to clean them regularly and often. Once your shag rug becomes matted down with dirt or stains, it may never return to its original plushness.

Step 1: Shaking It Out
The age-old trick to clean a shag rug is to shake it! Bring your rug outside and shake it vigorously to release any dirt, dust, or crumbs. If your rug is too large to shake by hand, try hanging it on a clothesline and beating any dirt out with a broom.

Step 2: Vacuuming
It is now time to vacuum your shag rug, but do so with caution. Vacuuming a shag rug is very different than vacuuming other rugs because the high pile can get caught easily and pull the rug out of its original shape. Use a vacuum cleaner specifically meant for shag pile – we recommend a high-pile-carpet vacuum.

Tip!

In the market for a new vacuum? Let us help. Check out our guide How to Choose the Best Vacuum Cleaner for Your Home.

Start by rolling up your shag rug and placing it to the side. Then lay a large sheet on the floor where the rug was. Unroll your rug onto the sheet, but face the soft side down. You should now be looking at the back of your rug. Vacuum the back side of your rug.

This will dislodge any dirt or debris that is stuck in your rug’s pile. Reroll your rug and place it to the side again. Now vacuum the dirt on the sheet. Continue unrolling and vacuuming the backside of your rug until no dirt is visible on the sheet. Once this is complete, remove the sheet and unroll your rug, face up.

Tip!

If at any point during this process your shag carpet appears damaged, seek the help of a professional carpet cleaning company. A professional rug cleaning usually costs around $475 but can range between $175 and $750.

Step 3: Removing Stains
Like all spills, the faster you respond, the more likely they will come out. Blot any spill with a clean microfiber cloth and a spray of carpet cleaner to zap the mess. For settled stains, spray cleaner directly on the affected area. To properly break down the stain, let the cleaning solution sit according to the cleaner’s instructions. Then blot the area with a clean microfiber cloth. Continue spraying rug cleaner and blotting until the stain is completely removed.

If you prefer to use homemade cleaning methods, try a simple mixture of equal parts warm water and white vinegar. Add the mixture to a spray bottle and spray directly onto the spill or stain. It is best to start with just a few spritzes, adding more if necessary.

Tip!

Invest in a few white microfiber cloths. Microfiber cloths are preferable to rags because they won’t leave loose fibers when cleaning.

Deep Cleaning

If you have a shag rug that you think may be beyond hope, don’t lose faith! Your shag carpet likely comes with specific instructions for a deep clean. If the tag lists water as an appropriate cleaning method, a rented carpet cleaner will perfectly clean your shag rug with a mix of hot water and carpet shampoo. Simply hang dry your rug outside when you are finished. If the instructions on how to clean shag rug are unclear, it is best to play it safe and have it cleaned by professionals.

Good to Know!

Flokati rugs are a subset of shag rugs. They are traditionally from Greece and are made specifically from 100% handmade wool. General cleaning methods for a flokati rug and wool shag rug are the same as a shaggy rug.

Tip!

Looking to clean a basic area rug? Check out our guide Cleaning 101: How to Clean an Area Rug.