Get the retro coziness you want without all the dust and debris.

Shag rugs can have fibers of different lengths, ranging from short to longer than an inch.

More delicate and silky materials will require a more gentle hand than something thickly woven and coarse.

how to clean a shag rug

RichLegg/Getty Images

Consider these factors when selecting a cleaning method to get the best results and avoid damaging your carpet.

You should also give a shot to deep clean your shag rug every month.

If you might’t make those changes to the controls, don’t use the vacuum.

If you want to use a machine cleaner, opt for a steamer.

Remember that ideally, you should use the upholstery tool to avoid damaging the rug.

Otherwise, the fibers could get stuck and pulled out by the brush.

Then vacuum both sides of the rug slowly and carefully to remove the powder without ripping out the fibers.

Gently Fluff the Rug

Fluff the pile with your hands, carpet rake, or upholstery brush.

Remember to be gentle when fluffing so you don’t damage the rug you’ve just carefully cleaned!

Go slowly and deliberately, and your rug will look like new in no time.

you’ve got the option to brighten and freshen your rug with baking soda.

It won’t remove stains, but it will help to brighten the fibers and absorb odors.

Leave it on overnight, shake out, vacuum, and fluff.

Here are some tips for keeping your shag carpet looking like new.

Place the dampened cloth over the flattened area.

Leave the towel on and allow the area to dry.

Once dry, fluff the fibers with your hands.

you might power wash some shag rugs, depending on the material.

Rugs made with synthetic fibers like polyester are generally safe to power wash.

Wall-to-wall carpeting is constructed differently than area rugs and can withstand the harshness of a carpet cleaner.

Area rugs are more delicate and, therefore, very likely to be damaged by a carpet shampooer.