Area & Oriental Rug, Carpet & Upholstery, Tile & Grout Cleaning — Serving Santa Cruz, Santa Clara & Monterey Counties
831-423-5235

Is Your Shag Rug in Need of a Deep Clean?

Expert Rug Cleaners serving Santa Cruz and surrounding areas since 1947

Cleaning Tips
Why shag rugs are tricky — and how we solve it

Shag rugs are cozy and stylish — but their long, dense pile traps soil, making DIY cleaning tough and sometimes risky. Here's what makes them challenging and why a professional clean can save the day.

Common Shag-Rug Challenges

  • Long pile captures dirt, dust, dander, and debris deep in the base.
  • Delicate fibers can mat or distort if scrubbed or over-agitated.
  • Plush texture reduces the effectiveness of standard home equipment.
  • Older/worn shags may gray out and resist brightening without specialty care.
  • Odors cling inside the thick pile and backing, requiring thorough flushing.
Good to know: Over-wetting a shag can drive soils deeper and slow drying — both can lead to wicking and lingering odors. Controlled moisture, airflow, and proper grooming are key.

How We Help

Our in-plant process is designed for plush constructions like shag. We dust to remove dry soil, select the correct chemistry, clean and rinse with controlled moisture, and use speed-drying plus grooming to restore loft and softness — without stressing the fibers.

Shag rug texture close-up

Ready for an assessment?

Snap a photo of your rug and email it to . We'll advise on the best care, pricing, and pickup options.

Call (831) 423-5235

Notice: Pickup & delivery across greater Santa Cruz, or save with scheduled drop-off at our rug spa.

If it's cleanable, Santa Cruz Rug Cleaners can clean it!