Shag rugs are known for their soft, squishy feel on the feet that can make any room cozier especially now that the weather is starting to grow colder. If you have one at home, proper maintenance is key to prolonging its life span and ensuring everyone’s safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Blot out stains right away
Ideally, you’ll use this method to treat a spill before it has a chance to set in, but even if it’s dry before you get to it, there’s still hope. Combine equal parts plain white vinegar and room-temperature water, and pour directly onto the affected area. For a small stain caused by a few tablespoons of spilled liquid or food, start with ½ cup of each ingredient to form the mixture, making more if necessary.
Work the solution into the stain with a white microfiber cloth—better than a rag because it won’t stain or leave lint behind—using some elbow grease to release it from the fibers. Once you’ve eliminated the stain entirely, hang the clean shag rug in a well-ventilated area to dry completely. Source: BobVila
Get rid of dirt
Vacuum a shag rug as needed, which may be weekly on average, daily if it’s used every day by children or pets, or monthly if it’s rarely walked or played on.
Set the vacuum’s cleaning head to high pile, if your vacuum cleaner has this option. If the cleaning head isn’t adjustable, you may want to invest in a vacuum with such an option to help control suction and make the head glide more easily.
Suction out the dirt thoroughly. Dirt left to grind at a carpet’s fibers will cause them to breakdown or wear out. Do not use the vacuum’s beater bar or power head on a shag rug. The whirling action can snag, pull or tear out strands. Source: SFGate
Have a professional deep clean the carpet
If you are struggling with the decision about whether or not to clean your shag carpet yourself, you might want to consider hiring a professional to clean it for you. Due to the delicate nature of shag carpet, it is very easy to damage in cleaning. It might be better to play it safe and pay a professional.
- Be sure to check around for a carpet cleaning company that has experience cleaning shag carpet specifically. Source: WikiHow
If you start to notice your shag carpet’s fibers getting too worn out or loose, consider getting it repaired before having it replaced. Call us so we can help!
