Shag rugs are beautiful, elegant, and cozy, but if you’re trying to keep them clean, they can be a formidable opponent. Their high pile can easily trap a significant amount of dirt, dust, and debris, and cleaning them by hand can be cumbersome due to their heft. The professional rug cleaning staff at America’s Best Cleaning & Restoration Services in La Crosse, WI, shares a few pointers to keep your rug looking its best all year-round.

What Do You Need to Consider When Cleaning Shag Rugs?

Not all shag rugs are the same, which is why it’s important to identify what type you own before you try to clean it. If available, check the tag for information about the materials. You can also reach out to a rug cleaning professional for their expert insight and care recommendations. For example, handmade flokati rugs are 100% wool, and to maintain their soft, fluffy look, they have to be cleaned and brushed on a regular basis; conversely, synthetic shag rugs are easier to clean and can hold up to a steam cleaner.

How Do You Clean Them?

Vacuum

Don’t vacuum your shag rug unless it has a high-pile setting; shag fibers can clog the hose and wear out the belts. Instead, use the suction-only upholstery attachment, which can directly reach between the rows of thread to remove dirt and debris.

Shake

Take the rug outside and shake it out to loosen the dirt particles. For a more effective clean, hang the rug over a line to expose the floor backing. Then, use a broom or mop handle to gently smack away stubborn debris.

Shampoo

Only use dry shampoo to clean shag rugs; liquid cleaners seem convenient, but they won’t be able to penetrate the long fibers and deliver a deep clean. Instead, follow the manufacturer’s instructions with dry shampoo. Usually, you’ll sprinkle shampoo over the surface, leave it for a period of time, and then vacuum or shake it out to remove the powder.

Hire Professionals

For an effective clean that leaves your rug intact, hygienic, and looking like-new, reach out to a professional service. An experienced rug cleaning team will have the necessary tools and techniques to clean—without damaging the fibers.

Accidents happen, and even if you take excellent care of your shag rug, it’s difficult to tell how much dust and dirt has built up between the fibers over time. With the help of an experienced rug cleaning team, you can transform the look and feel of your living space without lifting a finger. Homeowners throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin trust the team at America’s Best Cleaning & Restoration Services for all of their cleaning needs. To speak with a representative and schedule a free estimate, call (608) 782-6995, or visit them online to learn more about their services.