How to Clean Shag Carpet

Shag carpet adds charm and whimsy to any room, but it can be difficult to clean. Rollers and beater bars can tangle or break the fibers. Using the right equipment can keep you shag carpet looking great.

Things You'll Need

• A straight suction canister vacuum or a beater vacuum with a rug attachment
• A "shag rake"

Instructions

Cleaning Your Shag Carpet

1. Vacuum the shag carpet with a straight suction canister vacuum. Don't use a rotator beater vacuum. This can cause the fibers to break or become tangled.

2. If the carpet is extremely dirty, spray carpet cleaner and allow to sit on the carpet for ten minutes. Don't scrub the carpet. This can cause the fibers to matte together.

3. Vacuum the carpet again to remove the carpet cleaner.

4. Rake the shag carpet with a shag rake. Allow the carpet to dry thoroughly, then rake a second time. It make be helpful to rake in one direction, then rake again in a line that is perpendicular to the first raking.

Tips & Warnings

• Regular cleaning will prevent stains and ground in dirt, making cleaning and maintaining your shag carpet easier.

• If you don't have a straight suction vacuum, many rotating head vacuums can be used if the beater bar is turned off or raised.