If you're looking to add a touch of luxury, warmth, and texture to your home, shag rugs are the perfect choice. Known for their plush pile, retro appeal, and cozy feel underfoot, shag area rugs have made a major comeback in modern interior design. Whether you're decorating a living room, bedroom, or cozy nook, shag rugs create a soft, stylish foundation that enhances any space.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about shag rugs from their history and benefits to choosing the best styles and caring for them properly.
What Are Shag Rugs?
Shag rugs are characterized by their deep, thick pile, often made from long strands of fabric or yarn. This results in a luxurious, textured surface that feels incredibly soft and comfortable. The name “shag” comes from the uneven, shaggy appearance of the fibers.
Originally popular in the 1960s and 70s, shag rugs are now back in style, with contemporary designs and materials that make them more versatile and easier to maintain.
Benefits of Shag Area Rugs
There’s a reason why shag rugs continue to be a popular choice for homeowners, interior designers, and decorators alike:
1. Unmatched Comfort
Shag rugs are ultra-soft, making them ideal for areas where you often go barefoot like bedrooms, lounges, or nurseries.
2. Visual Warmth and Texture
These rugs bring visual interest to a space, breaking up flat surfaces and adding dimension.
3. Sound Absorption
The thick pile of a shag area rug helps absorb sound, making your home feel quieter and more peaceful.
4. Retro Yet Modern Appeal
With updated patterns and materials, modern shag rugs blend the retro aesthetic with contemporary style.
5. Versatile Decor Option
Available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and shapes, shag area rugs work well in boho, minimalist, mid-century modern, and even Scandinavian-inspired interiors.
Types of Shag Rugs
Understanding the different types of shag rugs will help you choose the best option for your space.
1. Wool Shag Rugs
Natural, luxurious, and durable, wool shag rugs offer softness with long-lasting quality. They are ideal for low-traffic areas due to their delicate fibers.
2. Synthetic Shag Rugs
Made from materials like polyester, polypropylene, or acrylic, these rugs are more budget-friendly and easier to clean, making them perfect for high-traffic zones.
3. Flokati Shag Rugs
Originating from Greece, these all-wool rugs have a soft, fluffy appearance. They are traditionally white or ivory and are popular in cozy, bohemian spaces.
4. Leather Shag Rugs
A bold and stylish choice, leather shag rugs are made from thin leather strips. They're best for decorative use rather than daily comfort.
5. Frieze Shag Rugs
Featuring tightly twisted fibers, frieze rugs have a modern look and are less prone to matting than other shag styles.
Best Rooms to Use Shag Area Rugs
1. Living Room
Place a large shag area rug under a coffee table or seating area to create a cozy focal point. It’s perfect for lounging, reading, or movie nights.
2. Bedroom
A shag rug next to your bed makes mornings feel a little warmer and softer. Opt for a neutral tone to keep it calming.
3. Nursery or Kids’ Room
The plush texture is ideal for playtime and crawling toddlers. Choose a synthetic shag rug for easy cleaning.
4. Home Office
Add softness under your desk or behind your chair to enhance comfort and absorb sound during virtual meetings.
How to Choose the Right Shag Rug
1. Consider the Pile Height
Shag rugs range in pile height from 1 to over 3 inches. Higher piles are more luxurious but harder to clean.
2. Select the Right Material
Choose wool for natural luxury, synthetic for easy care, or a blend for budget and comfort.
3. Pick the Perfect Size
5x7 or 6x9: Ideal for smaller living rooms or under coffee tables
8x10 or larger: Perfect for open floor plans and full-room coverage
Runner rugs: Great for hallways, entryways, or bedside use
4. Choose a Color That Complements Your Space
Neutral tones (ivory, beige, gray) blend easily into any decor. Bold colors (navy, emerald, blush) make a stylish statement.
Trending Shag Rug Styles in 2025
Stay ahead with these popular shag area rug trends:
Tonal Neutrals: Monochromatic rugs with subtle texture variations
Patterned Shags: Moroccan-inspired designs, chevrons, and abstract motifs
Layered Textures: Combining shag rugs with flatweave rugs for added dimension
Earthy Colors: Warm browns, clay tones, and soft greens inspired by nature
High-Low Piles: Rugs that mix shag and flat areas for a sculpted effect
Caring for Shag Rugs
Shag rugs are known for their comfort, but they do require a bit of maintenance to stay fluffy and clean:
1. Vacuum Carefully
Use a vacuum without a beater bar or one with a gentle suction setting. You can also shake the rug outside to loosen debris.
2. Spot Clean Spills Immediately
Blot, don’t rub. Use a mild soap and water solution, and always test a hidden spot first.
3. Deep Clean Occasionally
Professional rug cleaning is recommended once a year, especially for wool shag rugs.
4. Rotate Regularly
Switch up the rug’s position to prevent uneven wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas.
Where to Buy Shag Rugs
There are many places to find stylish, affordable shag area rugs both online and in-store:
Wayfair – Wide selection at different price points
Rugs USA – Budget-friendly options with frequent sales
West Elm – High-end modern shag rugs
Target & IKEA – Great for affordable, trendy styles
Amazon – Convenient and fast, with user reviews
Final Thoughts
Shag rugs and shag area rugs are timeless in their appeal and modern in their versatility. Whether you’re aiming to create a cozy reading nook, add warmth to your bedroom, or bring a retro flair to your living room, a shag rug is the perfect finishing touch. With options available in every price range and design style, you’re sure to find a rug that meets your needs for comfort, style, and durability.
Embrace the plush life invest in a shag rug that turns your home into a soft, stylish sanctuary.