Shaggy Rugs – Everything You Want to Know
Soft, cosy, and full of texture — shaggy rugs bring instant warmth to any room. But they also raise common questions: Are they hard to clean? Do they flatten over time? Can I use one in a busy household?
Here’s our expert-approved FAQ covering everything you need to know about shag rugs.
❓What is a shaggy rug?
A shag rug is a high-pile rug with long, fluffy fibres that create a plush, soft texture. Originally popular in the 60s and 70s, shag rugs have made a big comeback thanks to modern materials and styling.
They come in:
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Cut pile (soft and smooth)
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Loop pile (more structured)
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Mixed textures for depth and dimension
❓Are shag rugs hard to maintain?
They’re slightly more care-intensive than low-pile rugs — but manageable.
Maintenance tips:
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Vacuum with a brushless or upholstery attachment
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Shake outside occasionally to remove dust
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Avoid using a beater bar (can damage fibres)
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Use a rug underlay to reduce shifting and wear
❓Can I use a shag rug in high-traffic areas?
Yes — but choose wisely.
If you want a shag rug in a busy space:
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Go for shorter pile heights (20–30 mm)
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Choose blended materials like polyester or heatset polypropylene
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Avoid placing it near entrances, kitchens, or messy zones
For high-traffic areas, use a shag rug as an accent or in less-used corners.
❓What are the best rooms for shaggy rugs?
Shag rugs shine in:
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Living rooms (cosy corners, TV zones)
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Bedrooms (soft landing next to the bed)
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Nurseries or kids’ rooms (playful and soft)
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Reading nooks or lounges
Avoid using shag rugs where they’ll get wet, like bathrooms or near kitchen areas.
❓What materials are shag rugs made from?
Common shag rug materials include:
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Polyester: soft, durable, affordable, and colourfast
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Polypropylene: stain-resistant, great for families
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Acrylic: wool-like feel, less heat-sensitive
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Wool: luxurious, natural and warm — but higher maintenance
Each material affects how the rug feels, looks, and ages.
❓Do shag rugs flatten over time?
Yes — especially in high-traffic zones. But they can be revived.
How to fluff it back up:
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Gently vacuum in different directions
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Use a rug rake or your fingers to lift the fibres
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Lightly steam the rug (not too hot!) and let it dry naturally
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Rotate your rug every few months
Pro tip: Choose a dense shag rug with high fibre resilience to avoid excessive flattening.
❓Can I put furniture on a shag rug?
You can, but consider these tips:
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Use furniture coasters to reduce pressure dents
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Avoid sharp or narrow legs that may sink deeply
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If using under a bed or sofa, go for a shorter-pile shag
Furniture won’t damage a shag rug if it’s moved occasionally and weight is distributed well.
❓How do I style a shag rug?
Let the texture do the talking. Pair shaggy rugs with:
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Clean-lined furniture (for contrast)
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Neutral or monochrome palettes
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Low-profile coffee tables or poufs
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Soft lighting and natural tones
Layering tip: Try layering a small shag rug over a flatwoven or jute base rug for dimension.
❓Do shag rugs shed?
Synthetic shag rugs shed less than wool. Still, light shedding is normal at first.
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Vacuum regularly (low suction)
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Avoid aggressive cleaning methods
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Shedding usually settles after a few weeks
🛋️ Want to feel one in real life?
Some shag rugs feel plush and bouncy, others more velvety or dense.
Visit our showroom near Antwerp (Willebroek) to touch, compare, and test the different textures in person.
Or contact us for personalised advice — we’re happy to recommend the best shag rug for your space and lifestyle.
💬 Final Tip
Shag rugs add warmth, comfort and a touch of luxury to any interior — if you choose the right one and care for it correctly.
Not sure where to start? Our team is here to help — online or in-store.
