Deep Clean a Shaggy Rug
Shaggy rugs are cozy but difficult to maintain. Crumbs and dust hide in them. Here is how to dislodge them without tearing out the pile.
Recommended Materials
- Vacuum cleaner (without rotating brush)
- Baking soda
- Rug beater (or broom handle)
- Dry foam rug shampoo
Steps to follow
Step 1
Standard vacuums struggle with long pile. Remove the rotating brush (which tears out strands and gets tangled) and use the smooth nozzle or crevice tool. Vacuum in multiple directions (crosswise) to lift the pile.
Step 2
The traditional method is the best: take the rug outside, hang it on a sturdy clothesline or fence, and beat it vigorously with a rug beater (or broom handle). You will be surprised by the amount of fine dust that comes out, much more than with the vacuum.
Step 3
In winter, if you have clean snow: place the rug pile-side down on the snow and beat the back. The snow deep cleans, kills dust mites with the cold, and revives colors without wetting the rug.
Step 4
To deodorize and dry clean: sprinkle generously with baking soda, work the powder into the heart of the fibers with your fingers (wear gloves), leave on overnight, then shake the rug outside before vacuuming the rest.
Step 5
For stains, use a special dry foam rug shampoo or Sommières clay. Avoid wetting a shaggy rug too much as it takes a very long time to dry at the base, which creates mold and bad odors.
Step 6
Regular brushing: to prevent the pile from tangling and forming 'dreadlocks', brush your rug once a month with a dog brush (slicker brush) or a rug rake. This restores volume and loosens dust before vacuuming.
Frequently Asked Questions
My rug has lost its volume, what to do ?
Use a steam cleaner (without touching the pile, just the steam) to straighten the fibers, or brush it gently against the grain.
Can I wash it with a hose ?
It's risky. Drying takes too long and the backing can rot. Reserve for synthetic rugs in mid-summer with strong sun and wind (drying in 24h max).
Precautions
- Do not use a robot vacuum on it (it will get stuck).
- Dry thoroughly before putting it back on the floor.
