Shag Rugs: A Cosy Addition To Your Living Space

Shag rugs have long been a timeless staple in home decor. Their versatility and plush pile are unmatched, making them ideal for any property.

Whether you're looking to refresh your living room or create a cosy retreat in your home office, shag rugs are the perfect solution. In this blog, we'll explore the unique features, benefits and care tips to help you keep your shag rug looking its best.

What is a shag rug ?

Shag rugs are dense and fluffy, with a deep pile that distinguishes them from other types of carpets. They’re made from various materials, including polyester, wool and leather.

Shag rugs are known for their long untrimmed fabric strands, creating a textured slightly scattered appearance. The rug’s body is thick and the tape length typically ranges from 20 mm to 50 mm. Besides its unique design, shag rugs offer softness and comfort that set them apart. With different patterns and colours available, shag rugs can effortlessly complement both modern and traditional décor styles.

Pros of using shag rugs

Now that we've answered, "What is a shag rug?" let’s explore the key advantages that make it a worthwhile investment.

• Superior comfort — With their thick pile, shag rugs can make any room more relaxing and inviting. Their cushioned surface feels luxurious underfoot, offering exceptional comfort whether you're walking or sitting. 

• Durability — Shag rugs crafted from strong materials like wool or resilient synthetics are built to endure heavy foot traffic. Their solid construction makes them a long-lasting addition to busy rooms.

• Visual appeal — Available in various colours and distinct textures, shag rugs add depth and a sense of luxury to a space. From neutral tones to bright shades, shag rugs can serve as a stylish focal point in both commercial and residential spaces. 

Types of shag rugs

Shag rugs come in different types to suit every taste and space. Discover what makes each one unique.

• Synthetic rugs — Synthetic shag rugs are typically made from polyester (a plastic petroleum-based fibre), viscose (a regenerated cellulose fibre from wood pulp), or a blend of both. They are generally more affordable than natural fibre rugs, making it easier to experiment with different patterns and colours.

• Flokati —  Flokati rugs are among the fluffiest rugs with piles reaching up to 5 inches. This makes them highly durable but also challenging to clean.

• High-pile — High-pile rugs are your traditional shag rugs with long, loose fibres that help absorb sound, creating a quieter environment. These rugs bring instant warmth to tile or hardwood floors, acting as an insulating barrier against cold surfaces.

• Sheepskin — Natural sheepskin rugs are incredibly fluffy and opulent with natural oils that help repel dirt and odours. You can drape a sheepskin rug over your bedroom furniture for a boho-chic vibe or layer it on top of an area rug to create a rustic ambience. However, they are best suited for low-traffic areas, as frequent use and moisture can cause damage. To preserve their quality, professional dry cleaning is recommended.

• Leather — Leather shag rugs have a natural sheen that adds sophistication to any space. Leather is a tough material and doesn't trap dirt and dust as easily as fabric, making it relatively low-maintenance.

How to care for shag rugs

Shag rugs' long fibres require special attention to maintain their gorgeous appearance. Follow these care tips to keep your rug looking good as new:

To clean up occasional spills:

• Quickly blot spills with a white, absorbent cloth to prevent stains from setting in. Always use a white cloth to avoid transferring dyes to your rug. 

• After blotting, rinse the cloth, wring out most of the water and continue dabbing the area until the spill is completely lifted.

To loosen dirt:

• Take the rug outdoors and hang it over a railing or sawhorse.

• Use the side of a broom or the handle of a mop to gently beat the rug, loosening any trapped dust or debris.

• Leave the rug in direct sunlight for a few hours. The heat helps eliminate bacteria and dust mites that can accumulate in soft furnishings.

To vacuum properly:

• Vacuum your shag rug based on usage—weekly for typical foot traffic, daily for homes with kids or pets or monthly for areas with minimal use. 

• Set your vacuum to a high-pile setting to remove dirt without damaging the fibres. 

• Avoid using the beater bar or powerhead as the spinning action can pull or tear the strands.

Shop premium shag rugs by Mayne Rugs & Flooring

Elevate your space with the warmth and timeless style of a shag rug from Mayne Rugs & Flooring. Our collection offers a variety of modern styles , versatile hues and sleek patterns. We have the perfect rug to match your needs, whether you prefer neutrals like cream and beige or bold multi-coloured designs.

Explore our collection online and give your space the stylish upgrade it deserves.