Shag rugs are one of the most commonly used rugs, which provide comfort and elegance to a room with their soft and fluffy texture.
But cleaning such types of rugs is difficult as they have long and thick piles. They should, therefore, be cleaned on a regular basis to maintain their softness and good condition.
In this article, you will learn all you need to know about cleaning a shag rug, from the simple vacuuming to the deep cleaning.
Why It Is Important To Clean A Shag Rug
Shag rugs are known to hold dirt, dust, pet hair, and other particles between their thick fibers.
Eventually, these particles will weaken the fibers and lead to discoloration or an unpleasant odor.
Not only does cleaning help to keep a clean shag rug in good condition, but it also makes it healthy to use.
It also helps in reducing the accumulation of dust which can be a trigger for allergic reactions or respiratory conditions.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Shag Rug
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you clean your shag rug and keep it looking fresh and fluffy.
Vacuuming: The First Step to a Fresh Shag Rug
The simplest and most efficient way to clean a shag rug is to regularly shake it or vacuum it. It removes dirt, dust, and other particles from the surface and inside the fibers.
Choose a Vacuum with Height Settings: Make sure you use a vacuum cleaner with variable suction and height settings.
A vacuum with a high suction power may lead to the pulling of the fibers and cause damage, while a vacuum with low suction cannot fully remove all the dirt.
Set it at a medium level for the best results.
Vacuum in Different Ways: This type of rug has rather long fibers that may toll in one direction; therefore, you should vacuum the rug in different directions to ensure all the fibers are freed from dirt.
Avoid Beater Bars: When using a vacuum cleaner to clean your shag rug, ensure that you switch off the rotating beater bar. These can tear and pull the fibers of the carpet and make them frayed and damaged.
Pro Tip: To remove pet hair, you can use an attachment with a brush to gently lift the hair off the fibers.
Removing Stains from Specific Areas
Stains and spills are inevitable, and the shag rugs are known to accumulate them. For minor stains and spills, spot staining is a good way of keeping the rug in good condition.
Blot Stains as Soon as Possible: When a spillage occurs it is advisable to absorb the liquid by pressing a cloth to the affected area. Do not scrub, as this will only push the stain further into the carpet pile.
Mix a Mild Cleaning Solution: Use a mild dish soap or a carpet cleaner diluted with water. Soak a cloth or a sponge with the solution and try to clean the stained area. Do not soak the rug, as too much water may cause damage to the fibers of the rug.
Rinse and Dry: Then, wipe the area with clean water to ensure no soapy residue is left on the surface. Finally, use a towel to dry the area and then allow the rug to air dry without stepping on it.
Deep Cleaning: Wash a Shag Rug
Although you can maintain a shag rug and keep it in good condition through daily vacuuming and spot cleaning, it is advisable to wash it well once in a while. Here’s how to wash a shag rug without causing damage. Here is how to wash a shag rug without causing much harm.
Check the Rug’s Label: However, before you proceed to wash your shag rug, ensure that you check the label to find out the recommended way to wash it. Some rugs are made to be cleaned by machine, while others require professional cleaning.
Shake Out the Rug: Shake the rug outside and then hit it hard against a hard surface to remove some of the dirt stuck in the rug’s fibers. This also removes any dust that may have settled at the inner part.
Hand Wash in a Bathtub or Sink: If the rug is small enough to fit into a bathtub or a sink, you can wash it by hand.
The tub should be filled with warm water, and a mild detergent should be added. Rub the rug and try to emulsify the dirt on it. Do not twist or wring the rug since this will lead to the tearing of the fibers.
Rinse Thoroughly: To complete the cleaning process, the rug must be rinsed with clean water to ensure all the soap has been rinsed.
Let It Dry Thoroughly
The most crucial aspect of deep cleaning a shag rug is to let it dry.
Do not put your shag rug in the dryer because when you do so, the fibers of the rug will shrink or may even develop a distorted shape.
It can be placed on a clean surface and left to dry or hung up to dry in a well-aerated place.
Using a Carpet Shampooer for a Deep Clean
If your shag rug is large and very dirty or if it has not been cleaned for a long time, it may be helpful to rent a carpet shampooer.
Clean the Rug before Vacuuming It: Before you use a shampooing machine, it is advisable to vacuum the carpet to be sure that there is no dirt on the surface.
Choose the Right Shampoo: Select a carpet shampoo that is meant to be used with a shampooer. It is always advisable to adhere to the guidelines that come with the manufacturer’s label on the dilution and use.
Shampoo the Rug: Now, to clean your rug, use the shampooer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Make sure that you use gentle mode since high-powered machines are usually very rough on the shag rugs.
Dry the Rug Thoroughly: To absorb the moisture, use towels, and let the rug dry out on its own and without any pressure applied to it.
Getting Rid of Odors in Shag Rugs
Shag rugs tend to hold on to the smell of pets, food and general usage. Here are a few methods to freshen up your rug and eliminate unwanted smells. Here are a few methods to freshen up your rug and eliminate unwanted smells.
Sprinkle Baking Soda: Baking soda is known to be a bitter enemy to the odor. Shake a lot of baking soda on the rug and leave it to stand for 15 to 30 minutes. Then, vacuum the baking soda thoroughly to remove the odor.
Fabric Freshener: If you want to give your rug a fresh scent, then you can use a fabric refresher to lightly mist the rug. Do not overdo it, as this will lead to water damage to whatever is being cleaned.
Air Out the Rug: Another way is to occasionally place your shag rug in an area that has enough airflow, and this will ensure that the odor does not accumulate.
When to Call in a Professional Cleaner
However, there are instances when professional cleaning is needed, even if you clean your shag rug from time to time and keep it as good as new.
If you have a large, heavily soiled shag carpet, or if your rug is made of a delicate fiber, it is advisable to hire a professional cleaner.
They are professionals, equipped with the right tools, and know the right way to clean your rug without causing any damage.
Preserve the Beauty and Health of Your Rug’s Fibers
The following are the steps that will help you clean your shag rug and the tips to maintain it and make it look new after some years of use.
It’s important to clean rug regularly, not just to enhance its appearance but also to maintain hygiene and reduce the risk of allergies.
If you are searching for a house cleaning service, consider NW Maids.
Thus, our cleaning services will help you to keep your house clean and your rugs in perfect condition.
Visit our website or contact us today and book your cleaning service.
Related Posts:
- Travel Ready? Don’t Forget These Essential Cleaning Tasks!
- The Best Way to Clean Your Welcome Mats
- How to Clean a Table Runner The Right Way
- Soffit Cleaning 101: Everything You Need to Know
