For small stains, you could start with 1⁄2 c (120 mL) of white vinegar and 1⁄2 c (120 mL) of lukewarm water.
You may need to use quite a bit of elbow grease to fully eliminate the stain.
You can think about setting up box fans to blow on the shag carpet to help it dry more quickly if you are running short on time.
Be sure to choose a carpet shampoo that is intended for use on synthetic carpets like shag carpet. You should be able to purchase dry carpet shampoo at any home improvement store or larger home goods store.
Be sure not to work too vigorously, as you don’t want to damage the carpet.
Be sure to carefully follow the directions on the dry carpet shampoo packaging.
You may need to repeat the process to fully clean the shag carpet, especially if there are tough stains to remove.
If you must vacuum the shag carpet, try to use a low-powered handheld vacuum cleaner to avoid damaging the fibers.
You may want to consider opening any doors to the room as well to further ventilate it.
Remember to blot at spilled liquids rather than rubbing. Rubbing could damage the carpet fibers.
Be careful not to pull the machine too vigorously over the shag carpet, so as not to damage the carpet fibers. You can rent steam-cleaners from most grocery stores, home improvement stores, and even some carpet cleaning stores. You should steam clean your shag carpet once or twice per year to give it a good deep clean and to maintain its appearance.
Be sure to check around for a carpet cleaning company that has experience cleaning shag carpet specifically.
