While it originally may bring to mind notions of lemon and avocado, dark-wood paneling and the Brady home, there is more to shag carpeting than the decor we remember from the 1970s. Actually, shag carpeting isn’t only a delight to sink your toes into, but also adds style and texture to your living room. From the pop of shade an area rug to the ultimate relaxation of wall-to-wall coverage, shag carpeting provides an appealing aesthetic when it’s properly maintained.
Rake It Up
With use, the lengthy, dense fibers of shag carpeting become compressed causing excess wear and also a shorter lifespan. Restore life to shag by gently running your hands through the stack and fluffing it up. Stubborn areas may be reshaped using a wire rake; in a pinch, a comb accomplishes the same outcome. Regularly check shag carpets for snarled or matted areas to best maintain its plush look when loosening dirt and grime for easier vacuuming. Small rugs may be shaken free of extra debris.
Suction for Success
Vacuuming is essential to maintaining a shag carpet looking and feeling its best. Start by sprinkling a small amount of carpet freshening powder or baking soda over the entire rug. If you’ve shedding pets or children who track in dirt, start looking for a product formulated for heavy duty cleaning. Allow the powder set based on the manufacturer’s recommendations before vacuuming about the strongest pile setting, allowing the brushes to achieve deep into the base of the rug. Vacuuming at least once a week — or even more in high-use areas — helps prevent debris from penetrating the carpet’s base. If allowed to remain, dirt and grime eventually erode fibers.
A Thorough Steam Clean
While raking and vacuuming are sufficient for regular care of shag carpets, twice-yearly steam cleanings deliver the ultimate refresh. Home improvement stores and massive supermarkets lease steam cleanersthat can be especially helpful in treating shag carpets because steam cleaning doesn’t tangle fibers like other methods. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removing hard-to-reach debris using the combination of hot water, foam cleaner and strong suction. As moist carpeting may lead to the mould development, help the air-drying process together by opening your windows and turning fans. To avoid damaging fibers, wait to return furniture before the rug is completely dry. If you’re short on time, then employ a professional service to spruce up your shag rug.
Daily Maintenance
Everyday maintenance is essential to caring for shag carpets. Manage spills and stains immediately by gently blotting at excess liquids using a rag or microfiber cloth. Rubbing may cause the stain to set. Routinely check carpeting for unkempt locations and use scissors to carefully snip off loose knots and snags. Rotating furniture and carpets prevents excessive wear brought on by uneven or inconsistent traffic patterns.