Flat weave rugs might seem ordinary, but this alternative style significantly intensifies the design in your living room.
In the world of home decor, short-pile shag rugs have been making a significant comeback. These stylish and practical rugs are hand-knotted or woven, offering a refined texture that suits any space. From Ferm Living's Mara Knotted Rug to Anthropologie's colour-blocked designs, there's a wide variety to choose from.
But with their unique texture comes the need for special care. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean and maintain your short-pile shag rug:
- Vacuuming: Regularly vacuum your shag rug twice a week using a vacuum with the beater bar turned off. Use the upholstery attachment for delicate areas and vacuum the back of the rug occasionally to loosen embedded dirt. Avoid high-suction vacuums on wool shag rugs as they can damage fibers.
- Shaking or Beating: Take the rug outside and shake it firmly by the corners or drape it over a railing and gently beat it with a broom handle to dislodge dust and debris. Avoid prolonged direct sun exposure to prevent fiber fading and weakening.
- Fluffing the Pile: Use your hands or a gentle tool (like a horsehair upholstery brush or a plastic child’s garden rake) to lift and revivify the fibers if the pile flattens. Avoid standard stiff brushes that can damage the fibers.
- Spot Cleaning: Treat stains promptly by dabbing gently (avoid scrubbing) using mild detergent or a diluted white vinegar solution for persistent stains. Use a clean sponge dipped in water and mild detergent to scrub systematically, rinse well with clean water to remove residue, and let it dry completely.
- Deep Cleaning: For a deeper clean, hand wash the rug using mild detergent and water mixture, scrubbing gently to avoid damaging the soft pile. Dry the rug thoroughly by hanging or elevating it to allow air circulation. Avoid machine washing as it can harm shag rugs.
- Routine Maintenance: Regularly fluff and rotate the rug every month for even wear and to keep fibers lively. Sprinkle baking soda occasionally to neutralize odors before vacuuming it off.
By combining these techniques—gentle vacuuming, shaking, spot treatment, and careful deep cleaning—you can effectively maintain the cleanliness and appearance of your short-pile shag rug while protecting its fluffy texture.
As the trend for short-pile shag rugs continues to grow, more top rug brands, including LAYERED, are starting to produce these rugs at more affordable price points. So, whether you're embracing the 70s color palette or preferring a minimalist design, there's a short-pile shag rug to suit every style and budget.
The intricate texture of short-pile shag rugs makes them a popular addition to contemporary interior design, elevating living rooms and even bathrooms with their unique charm. These rugs, such as Ferm Living's Mara Knotted Rug, have been a talk of the town in home-and-garden magazines, with various Scandinavian designs and color options available.
The art of maintaining these plush rugs is crucial to preserve their texture and longevity. By adopting a routine of regular vacuuming, shaking or beating, fluffing the pile, spot cleaning, deep cleaning, and routine maintenance, you can effortlessly preserve the fluffiness of your short-pile shag rug.
As the trend for short-pile shag rugs continues to grow, brands like LAYERED are offering affordable options, providing a chance for people to embrace this lifestyle trend and incorporate this captivating texture into their homes, regardless of budget or preferred interior-design style.
