How To Keep A Shaggy Rug Looking Good
With their distinctive style and soft, comforting texture, shag rugs can effortlessly revamp your home, infusing it with an ambiance of warmth, elegance, and modernity. Not just any regular rug, shaggy rugs possess a deeper pile that enhances their softness and visual appeal. They're a seamless way to introduce texture, style, and depth to your home décor, perfect for various styles from mid-century designs and contemporary settings to minimalist themes and even Scandinavian interiors. Whether you prefer a minimalist-modern look, a cosy hygge vibe, or something in between, shag rugs are indeed a versatile choice.
These rugs are crafted using various materials like flokati wool, faux and real fur, leather, and acrylic. However, the high pile characteristic of shag rugs requires a higher degree of maintenance. Here are some essential tips and tricks to keep your shag rug in top shape!
Avoid Vacuuming, Opt for Shaking
Vacuuming your shag rug may seem like a practical choice, but it may lead to numerous issues such as knotting, texture damage, and even fibre tearing, which could potentially harm your vacuum cleaner too. Instead, give your rug a good shake to dislodge dirt, pet hair, and other small particles lodged within your rug's crevices. You can then vacuum the debris off your floor.
It may require a little effort, but manually removing stubborn bits trapped in your rug with your hands can be highly effective. For particularly sticky substances, use a spoon to gently scrape them off. If your home is bustling with children and pets, consider placing your shag rug in a lower traffic area such as the master bedroom.
Address Stains Immediately
Stains are inevitable, but they need not be a disaster. Always start with a mild soap and water solution, dabbing at the spot rather than rubbing, which could spread the stain further. Rinse with plain water and repeat the process until the stain is eliminated. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners that could potentially harm your rug's texture.
Before using any new cleaning product, it's advisable to test it on a small, hidden part of the rug to prevent discoloration or new stains. To maintain the pristine condition of your rug, consider implementing a household rule prohibiting food and beverages near the shag rug.
Frequent Combing or Brushing is Key
Just like detangling a pet's fur, regularly combing your shag rug can keep it looking fresh and fluffy. Comb or brush in one direction, smoothing out any knots. Even barefoot or sock traffic can cause tangling. Regular combing not only maintains the rug's appearance but also makes the process easier over time.
Layer Your Rugs for Protection
Protecting the bottom of your shag rug is as crucial as the top. Layer your shag rug over a natural fibre rug to prevent dirt accumulation, which could weaken the knots. This also prevents your shag rug from acting as a "dust mop". Layering is a trendy design technique that can further enhance the room's texture. Always ensure that the shag rug layered on top is smaller than the rug underneath.
Maintain Overall Cleanliness
Ensuring the longevity of your shag rug starts with maintaining a clean home, especially the area surrounding the rug. Routine sweeping to remove dust and other debris, along with thorough mopping of the floors, can keep your rug cleaner. Remember to take your shag rug outdoors and hang it up to air out during your cleaning sessions.
If the idea of maintaining a shaggy rug seems daunting, start with a darker coloured rug or ones with lower piles, which are easier to maintain. Remember, the key to keeping your shag rug looking as good as new is consistent care and cleaning!
