There’s nothing quite like sinking your feet into a shaggy rug after a long day. Known for their ultra-soft texture and luxurious feel, shaggy rugs are making a big comeback in modern and transitional interiors. Whether you’re going for retro charm, boho vibes, or cozy minimalism, shag rugs add a layer of plush comfort that transforms any room.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about shaggy rugs—from styles and materials to how to clean and style them. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to choose the perfect shag rug for your space.
Table of Contents
What Is a Shaggy Rug?
A Brief History of Shag Rugs
Popular Types of Shaggy Rugs
Best Materials for Shaggy Rugs
Benefits of Shaggy Rugs
Ideal Rooms for Shag Rug Placement
Styling Tips for Shaggy Rugs
Common Sizes Placement Guidelines
Shaggy Rugs vs. Plush Rugs: What’s the Difference?
How to Clean and Maintain Shaggy Rugs
Where to Buy Shaggy Rugs Online
Final Thoughts
1. What Is a Shaggy Rug?
A shaggy rug, often called a shag rug, is characterized by its long, thick pile (the surface fibers of the rug), which gives it a “shaggy” appearance. The fibers can range in length from ½ inch to over 2 inches, creating a deep, cushiony feel underfoot.
Shaggy rugs are all about texture and comfort—they’re warm, soft, and stylish. Ideal for cozy living spaces, bedrooms, and even reading nooks, they instantly add a sense of relaxation and luxury.
2. A Brief History of Shag Rugs
Shag rugs rose to popularity in the 1960s and 1970s as a symbol of mod and boho decor. With their bold colors and fuzzy textures, they were associated with the free-spirited aesthetic of the era. While they briefly fell out of fashion, modern shag rugs have returned with a sleeker, more versatile look—often in neutral tones, geometric patterns, and luxe materials.
Today’s shag rugs combine the best of retro nostalgia and contemporary elegance.
3. Popular Types of Shaggy Rugs
Not all shag rugs are the same. Here are some of the most common types:
? Flokati Shag Rugs
Made from 100% wool (including the backing)
Originated in Greece
Super fluffy and soft with a natural off-white hue
Ideal for minimalist or Scandi interiors
✨ Synthetic Shag Rugs
Made from materials like polyester, acrylic, or polypropylene
Budget-friendly and available in many colors
Easier to clean and maintain than natural fibers
? Textured or Patterned Shags
Combine long and short piles for added dimension
Often used in contemporary or transitional spaces
? Faux Fur or Faux Sheepskin
Luxurious and silky
Often used as accent rugs on chairs, beds, or small areas
Great for glam or cozy chic decor
? Colored Shag Rugs
Bright, bold shades like teal, red, or yellow add a playful vibe
Popular in modern or retro-inspired rooms
4. Best Materials for Shaggy Rugs
The material determines a rug’s texture, durability, and ease of care:
| Material | Pros | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Wool | Natural, durable, soft, eco-friendly | High-end or luxury spaces |
| Polyester | Soft, shiny, affordable | Bedrooms, low-traffic areas |
| Polypropylene | Stain-resistant, budget-friendly | Family rooms, high-traffic areas |
| Acrylic | Lightweight, feels like wool | Modern interiors, decorative use |
| Faux Fur | Luxurious feel, vegan-friendly | Accent pieces, glam decor |
5. Benefits of Shaggy Rugs
✅ Comfort
The thick pile creates a plush, cloud-like surface that’s perfect for barefoot walking or lounging.
✅ Visual Warmth
Shag rugs soften hard surfaces like hardwood or tile and make a space feel instantly more inviting.
✅ Sound Absorption
The dense fibers help absorb noise, making shaggy rugs great for apartments or echo-prone spaces.
✅ Stylish Texture
Add depth and interest to minimalist interiors with the textural contrast of a shaggy rug.
6. Ideal Rooms for Shag Rug Placement
Shaggy rugs can work in nearly every room, but some areas benefit more from their coziness:
? Living Room
Center a shag rug under the coffee table or in front of the sofa
Opt for neutral tones like ivory, taupe, or gray for a timeless feel
? Bedroom
Use a large shag rug under the bed or layer smaller rugs at the bedside for extra warmth
? Reading Nook
Create a comfy spot with a fluffy rug, beanbag, and throw blanket
? Kids’ Room
Add a colorful or faux fur shag rug for softness and playtime comfort
❌ Not Ideal For:
Kitchens or dining rooms (hard to clean food spills from deep piles)
Hallways (thicker piles can be a tripping hazard)
7. Styling Tips for Shaggy Rugs
Want to style your shag rug like a pro? Try these designer-approved tips:
? Keep Furniture Legs Off
Let the rug stand out by not placing heavy furniture directly on it, especially if the pile is very deep.
? Pair with Sleek Lines
Contrast the plushness of the rug with clean-lined furniture for a modern aesthetic.
? Layering
Layer a smaller shag rug over a flat-woven or jute rug for depth and definition.
? Coordinate Textures
Match your rug with soft textures like velvet throw pillows, boucle chairs, or knit blankets.
8. Common Sizes Placement Guidelines
| Room | Recommended Rug Size | Placement Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Living Room | 5′ × 8′, 8′ × 10′ | Centered under coffee table |
| Bedroom (Queen) | 6′ × 9′, 8′ × 10′ | Extend beyond sides and foot of bed |
| Bedroom (Twin) | 3′ × 5′ or 4′ × 6′ | Placed beside or at the foot of the bed |
| Nursery/Kids' Room | 5′ × 7′ or round rug | Middle of the room or under seating/play area |
| Accent Areas | 2′ × 3′ or 3′ × 5′ | Entryway, reading nook, or beside a chair |
9. Shaggy Rugs vs. Plush Rugs: What’s the Difference?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences:
| Feature | Shaggy Rugs | Plush Rugs |
|---|---|---|
| Pile Length | Longer (1–2.5 inches) | Medium length (0.5–1 inch) |
| Look | Textured and sometimes irregular | Smooth and dense |
| Feel | Fluffy and loose | Velvety and compact |
| Use | Cozy, casual spaces | Elegant, formal areas |
Both offer comfort—but shag rugs scream cozy, while plush rugs feel more refined.
10. How to Clean and Maintain Shaggy Rugs
Cleaning shag rugs can be tricky due to the long pile, but regular care keeps them looking and feeling great.
? Vacuuming
Use a suction-only vacuum (no rotating brush/beater bar)
Shake outdoors if the rug is small enough
Vacuum from different directions to remove dust from all angles
? Spot Cleaning
Blot (don’t rub) spills immediately with a clean cloth
Use mild detergent and water for tougher stains
Always test cleaners in an inconspicuous spot first
? Deep Cleaning
For synthetic rugs: Rent a carpet cleaner or use a foam cleaner
For wool or high-end rugs: Hire a professional rug cleaner
? Storage Tips
Roll (don’t fold) and store in a dry, cool space
Avoid plastic wrap — use breathable fabric or canvas
11. Where to Buy Shaggy Rugs Online
? Top Online Retailers
| Retailer | Highlights |
|---|---|
| MAT Living USA | Budget-friendly shag rugs in many styles |
| Rugs USA | Frequent sales and modern shag options |
| West Elm | Luxe shag rugs, wool options, faux sheepskin |
| Urban Outfitters | Trendy boho shags and faux fur rugs |
| Amazon | Huge selection, customer reviews available |
| Ruggable | Washable shag rug options with stylish designs |
Pro Tip: Always read reviews, check pile height, and look at return policies before buying.
12. Final Thoughts
Shaggy rugs are the perfect fusion of style, comfort, and personality. Whether you want to bring softness to a sleek modern room, warmth to a neutral minimalist space, or retro flair to your living room, shag rugs deliver.
With so many materials, styles, and colors to choose from, there’s a shag rug for every space and budget. Just remember to consider traffic level, maintenance needs, and room function when selecting the right one.
So go ahead — treat your feet and elevate your space with a shaggy rug that combines timeless comfort with contemporary charm.
