Rug pile height and shag, explained
What pile is, and what high, low, and shag mean.
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What pile is
Encyclopaedia Iranica says that in a knotted pile rug, the cut ends of the knots project on the surface to form the pile and create the design. Pile height is how far that surface stands up from the foundation.
High pile, low pile, and shag
High pile and low pile describe longer and shorter pile. Shag is a term for a rug with long pile. We give no height figures, because no source we use sets them.
Direction of the pile
CCI says to vacuum using a standard vacuum cleaner head, not a power head, and a low level of suction. It says: "Always vacuum in the direction of the pile."
Pile on the label
The FTC says fiber content for pile fabrics may be stated for the product as a whole, or for the pile and the backing separately.
Pile and walking paths
We have no source that says one pile height is less likely to cause a trip. The CDC's home fall prevention checklist for older adults says: "Remove the rugs, or use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so the rugs won't slip."
Sources: Encyclopaedia Iranica, Carpets iii. Knotted-pile carpets: Techniques and structures; Canadian Conservation Institute, Basic care: Carpets and rugs; FTC, Threading Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements Under the Textile and Wool Acts; CDC STEADI, Check for Safety: A Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults (PDF).
FAQ
General information only. Keep walking paths clear. The CDC's home fall prevention checklist for older adults says to remove throw rugs, or use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so the rugs won't slip. Follow the maker's label and instructions for any rug, rug pad, tape, or cleaning product. If someone falls and is hurt, get medical help. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: hand-knotted rugs
Warps, wefts, and knots.
