You love your UGGs for their warmth and comfort, but a spill or muddy streak can dim their vibe. This guide helps you clean them safely without ruining the suede or sheepskin. Read on to learn simple steps that keep your favorites looking fresh.
Start with a dry suede brush to lift dirt, then mix cold water with a gentle cleaner designed for suede or sheepskin. Spot clean small stains, avoiding soaking the material, and never put UGGs in a hot dryer. Stuff the shoes with paper to help them keep their shape as they air dry.
Finish with a soft brush to restore nap and, if you like, a water-repellent protector to help guard against future stains. Allow full air drying away from direct heat before wearing again. Avoid machine washing or soaking, which can ruin the texture.
Assessing and Prepping Your Uggs for Washing
Check Labels and Determine the Washing Method
Your first step is to inspect the care label on each Ugg boot and identify the recommended cleaning method. Uggs come in several variants—classic twinface sheepskin, waterproof leather, and newer responsibly sourced blends—each with different care needs. Misinterpreting the label can lead to color fading, material distortion, or sole detachment, especially with the more delicate suede exterior.
If the label explicitly advises hand washing or spot cleaning, treat the boots as delicate wool and suede items. Some waterproof models tolerate gentle machine washing, but only on cold, gentle cycles and with a protective bag or pillowcase. When in doubt, default to hand washing to preserve texture, color, and the soft nap of the suede. This initial decision will shape every subsequent step.
Key decision points to consider include: the boot’s color (lighter colors show stains more readily), the presence of a leather or suede exterior, and the level of visible dirt. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and choose hand washing. A cautious approach reduces the risk of irreversible damage and preserves the boot’s lifespan.
Gather Tools and Prep the Workspace
Assemble a clean, well-lit workspace before you begin. A kitchen or laundry sink can work, but a shallow basin or tub is often better for immersion control. Having everything within reach minimizes drips and makes the process smoother.
Recommended tools and supplies include a soft-bristled suede brush, a clean white cloth, a small bowl, mild detergent (preferably a wool-safe or gentle, fragrance-free detergent), white vinegar (for odor), and water at cold to lukewarm temperature. Also prepare a couple of clean towels, a fan or hairdryer on cool setting for faster drying, and a waterproof spray for aftercare. Removing laces and insoles in advance reduces friction during cleaning and helps with even cleaning.
Before you begin washing, remove the laces and any removable insoles, if possible. This ensures every part of the upper surface is accessible and clean. If the insoles are thick or foam-based, consider cleaning them separately or replacing them if they’re heavily soiled or developing odor.
Hand Washing the Suede Exterior
Preparations and Cleaning Technique
Begin with a dry, light lift of any surface dirt using a soft brush. Suede fibers are delicate and can be damaged by harsh scrubbing, so work with gentle strokes that lift dirt rather than grind it in. When you’re ready to clean, mix a small amount of mild detergent with cold water to create a weak cleaning solution.
Dip a clean cloth into the solution and wring it out so it’s barely damp. Wipe the exterior in short, even motions, paying attention to heavily soiled areas without soaking the material. After each area, wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Avoid saturating the suede, as excess moisture can lead to warping or nap distortion.
Rinse is not a full dunk; it’s a controlled wipe-down. For stubborn marks, you can use a suede eraser or a very light dab of the cleaning solution applied with a cotton swab. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure colorfastness before proceeding to larger sections.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
Avoid soaking the boots or placing them in a washing machine unless the care label specifically permits it. Immersing suede in water can cause stiffening, nap matting, or water rings that are hard to remove. Never place Uggs near direct heat sources to dry; heat can shrink or deform the material.
If color bleed or staining remains after cleaning, don’t scrub harder in the same spot. Instead, re-wet a cloth with clean water and gently rework the area, then blot dry with a towel. For persistent marks, consider a specialty suede cleaner designed for the specific color and material. Patience is often required, as suede’s nap can take time to re-fluff after cleaning.
After cleaning, check that ammonia-free or dye-free products were used, especially on lighter colors. Chemical residues can cause stiff textures or dull appearance. If the color looks uneven, brush evenly once the boots are dry to restore the nap and uniform sheen.
Cleaning the Wool Lining and Insoles
Cleaning Wool Safely
The wool lining inside many Uggs should be treated with equal care. Begin by lightly vacuuming the interior to remove loose debris. For spot cleaning, mix a small amount of mild detergent with water, dampen a clean cloth, and gently dab stained areas. Avoid soaking the lining, which can take a long time to dry and may cause odor or mold.
For odor and deeper cleaning, you can use a solution of white vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio applied with a cloth, then blot dried. Vinegar helps neutralize smells without overly saturating the lining. Always ensure you remove any vinegar residue with a subsequent rinse cloth and allow the interior to air-dry completely.
After spot cleaning, let the lining dry in a well-ventilated area. Do not stuff the boots with towels or heat-dry; this can deform the interior or compress the wool texture. If moisture remains, use a fan at a safe distance to promote airflow and speed up drying.
Cleaning Insoles and Removable Components
Remove insoles when possible and treat them as a separate item. Insoles can trap moisture and odor more readily than the outer shoe. Wash insoles by hand with a mild detergent solution, then rinse and squeeze gently to remove soap, followed by air drying completely before reinsertion.
If insoles are not removable, wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild detergent solution, then rinse with a clean damp cloth. Thoroughly dry the interior after cleaning to prevent mildew. Consider sprinkling baking soda inside the boots after drying to neutralize any lingering odor, then shake it out before wearing.
For persistent odors, you can occasionally use a light mist of diluted rubbing alcohol or a specialized odor-control spray designed for footwear. Always test on a small area first and allow plenty of time to air out to prevent residue transfer to the wool lining.
Dealing with Stains
Removing Common Stains: Mud and Grass
Start with dry removal of loose soil using a soft brush. Then, dampen a cloth with clean water and wipe away loosened dirt, repeating with a mild detergent solution if needed. Work from the outer edges toward the center to avoid spreading the stain. After cleaning, blot with a dry towel to remove excess moisture.
For stubborn mud or grass stains, a suede cleaner designed for stubborn marks can be applied sparingly. Use a light hand and avoid saturating the surface. Gently rub in the direction of the suede grain and wipe away any residue with a clean, damp cloth. Finally, towel-dry and allow to air dry away from direct heat sources.
Once dry, brush the suede to restore nap and uniform texture. A well-fluffed nap helps hide minor imperfections and maintains the boots’ aesthetic. If color variation remains, additional light brushing and a re-application of a protector spray can help even out appearance over time.
Odor-Causing Stains: Salt, Perspiration, Oil
Salt deposits can appear around the sole and toe areas due to exposure to moisture and road salt in winter. Wipe is gently with a cloth slightly dampened with a mild detergent solution, then rinse with a clean damp cloth and air dry. For persistent salt residues, use a small brush to lift crystals from the nap before drying.
Perspiration and oil stains benefit from a more targeted approach. Use a small amount of mild detergent on a damp cloth to carefully blot the area, then rinse. If the stain persists, a diluted white vinegar solution can help break down oils; always test first on an inconspicuous area. Finish with thorough drying and gentle brushing to restore the suede’s texture.
To prevent odors, consider sprinkling baking soda inside the boots after drying and leaving it overnight. Shake out before wearing. For ongoing odor management, consider periodic cleaning cycles combined with cleaner protection sprays that are safe for suede and wool.
Drying and Reshaping
Drying Best Practices
Air drying is the safest method for Uggs. After cleaning, gently press a towel around the exterior to absorb excess moisture, then reshape by stuffing the boots with paper towels or clean, dry newspaper to help maintain form and prevent shrinking. Avoid standing the boots upright in direct sun or near a heat source, as heat can warp or crack the materials.
Place the boots in a well-ventilated area with adequate airflow. If you need to speed up drying, you can use a fan set to a cool setting pointed toward the boots, keeping a safe distance to avoid direct heat. Replace the stuffing material as it dries to keep the shape intact. Do not use a clothes dryer under any circumstances.
Count on 12 to 24 hours for complete drying, depending on climate and boot thickness. In humid environments, drying may take longer. Patience is essential to prevent nap damage or shrinkage that can occur if moisture is trapped inside the lining.
Reshaping and Brush Care After Drying
Once dry, inspect the nap and evenness of the suede. Use a suede brush to restore the nap by brushing in one consistent direction. For nap compression or discoloration, a light re-brushing in multiple directions can help even out the surface. Consistent brushing also helps prevent water spots from setting into the fabric.
If any stiffness remains after drying, you can use a very light, dry brushing to loosen the fibers. Avoid applying excessive pressure or moisture at this stage, as the goal is to re-fluff the surface. Following brushing, consider applying a protective suede spray to seal and preserve the finish against future dirt and moisture.
Regular maintenance after drying includes occasional brushing, spot-cleaning as needed, and reapplying protective treatments every few months or after heavy usage. This routine helps extend the boots’ life and keeps the appearance consistent across seasons.
Protection and Ongoing Maintenance
Waterproofing and Protector Sprays
Protecting your Uggs with a suitable waterproofing spray is essential, especially for suede and lighter colors. Choose a product designed for suede and nubuck, ensuring it’s compatible with wool interiors. Apply the spray in a well-ventilated area, following the manufacturer’s instructions for distance and drying time.
For best results, apply the protector when the boots are dry and free of detergents. A light, even coat is preferable to heavy saturation, which can affect the nap and appearance. Allow the boots to dry completely before wearing or storing. Reapply every few months or after cleaning to maintain protective coverage against moisture and stains.
After spraying, brush lightly to restore nap and ensure even distribution of the product. Regular protection reduces the likelihood of future stains penetrating the surface and makes future cleaning easier. Always test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area before full application to ensure colorfastness and compatibility with your Ugg model.
Routine Care and When to Repeat Washing
Developing a simple routine will reduce the need for deep cleaning. Light, regular brushing to remove surface dirt and quick spot-clean sessions after wearing can keep boots looking fresh. For light wear, you may only need to refresh the exterior with a damp cloth and mild detergent every few months rather than a full wash.
Frequency depends on use and climate. In rainy or snowy seasons, or if you wear the Uggs in dirty environments, plan for more frequent cleaning. If you notice persistent odor, stains that won’t lift, or nap flattening, a full hand-wash cycle followed by proper drying may be warranted. Always tailor the approach to your specific model and material to avoid unnecessary wear.
Storage matters too: store your Uggs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use boot shapers or paper to preserve shape during off-season storage. Periodic cleaning and conditioning—when appropriate—will extend the life of your Uggs and maintain their comfort and appearance over time.
Conclusion
Washing Ugg shoes requires a careful balance of cleaning the exterior suede, treating the wool lining, and protecting the materials from heat and over-wetting. By assessing the care label, gathering the right tools, and following a controlled, step-by-step process, you can restore your boots’ appearance while preserving their texture and shape. The goal is to clean effectively without compromising the materials’ integrity.
Remember to dry patiently, reshape thoughtfully, and apply protective products to extend life and resist future stains. Regular maintenance—gentle brushing, spot cleaning, and periodic protection—keeps Uggs looking fresh across seasons. With the right approach, your beloved boots will stay comfortable, stylish, and durable for years to come.
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