How to Apply Scotchgard on a Shag Area Rug

Shag rugs.
  • 2-3 hours
  • 20-40
What You'll Need
Shag pile rug
Scotchgard in spray cans
Afro comb
What You'll Need
Shag pile rug
Scotchgard in spray cans
Afro comb

Scotchgard is a trade name and trademark registered by the 3M Corporation for a group of products that can be applied to fabrics like a shag area rug. The products are for specific purposes and need to be chosen with care. The product to be used on your designer rugs is a stain protector. The spray coats the fibers in the rug, which actively repels dirt and stains. Provided a clean-up is done quickly, a Scotchgarded rug will not be stained or harmed by spillages.

Step 1 - Check Your Shag Rug

Scotchgard can only be applied to rugs that can be cleaned with water. Check to see that your shag rug can take water. If your rug has artificial fibers, check the Scotchgard packaging to make sure you buy the correct product.

Step 2 - Test Your Shag Pile

Scotchgard can cause colors to fade or run so you need to test a hidden area of the rug to make sure the colors will not be affected. Check a small amount of the pile, not the rug binding.

Step 3 - Prepare Your Shag Pile

Scotchgard should be applied to clean and dry carpets. If you have a large rug, make sure that you have enough Scotchgard to do the complete job in one session.

Step 4 - Ventilate the Work Area

Arrange for as much ventilation in the working area as possible, but do not create strong drafts. The ventilation will disperse the propellant and improve the drying time of the spray.

Step 5 - Comb the Shag Pile

Using a broad toothed comb arrange the pile so that it is lying in a single direction. Follow the instructions on the can for applying the Scotchgard. Spray evenly, taking care not to cover the same area twice. Sometimes there will be an accumulation of froth under the spray nozzle. If so, do not let it drip on to the shag pile.

Step 6 - Reverse the Shag Pile

Using the same comb reverse the shag pile so that it is lying in the opposite direction. The exposed pile should be dry. Spray this side of the pile evenly, ensuring that you do not cover the same area twice.

Step 7 - Leave to Dry

The large shag pile rug should be allowed to dry for at least 12 hours. When it is dry the shag pile can be used as normal. If areas of the pile seem to be stiff this will have been caused by over-spraying. This can usually be removed with a vacuum cleaner.

Once your shag area rug has been treated it will be able to stand up better to spillages and stains. Cleaning the shag pile after a spill will be easier. Treat your rugs with Scotchgard once a year to maintain its effectiveness.