How To Clean UGGs – Tips and Tricks

by John Griffith
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Cleaning any type of shoe can be a hassle and each kind comes with its own set of rules to follow. For example, you need to clean white shoes differently from suede shoes. The same rule applies when it comes to UGGs. This comfortable sheepskin shoe has been a controversial topic for years. Ever since they came on the market in the early 2000s people can’t decide whether they love or hate them. But we can all agree on one thing, they are hella cozy and warm. But because UGGs are so easily accessible to put on and are quite comfortable, they can be worn for a long time before we remember they might be in need of a good cleaning. So, if you think it’s time for one, let’s see how to clean UGGs and get them looking brand new!

UGG boots are comfy and cute

how to get grease stains out of uggs two people with uggs

Are UGGs Waterproof?

UGGs unlike other shoes, such as Crocs, are not fully waterproof. However, they do have some water resistance. They are designed to keep your feet cozy no matter the weather, this is thanks to their natural moisture-wicking properties and a super-breathable natural lining. The outside of the classic UGG boots are made with a pretreated suede for shoes. This means they’ll survive the occasional snow or rain, but if you want to make sure they have more protection you can use a special spray. Use a suede protector to boost up their water resistance.

What this essentially does is that if you get the boots wet, you’ll be able to put them aside, let them dry off and scrub off any stains the following day. Do keep in mind you will need to re-apply the spray to make them water-resistant again.

Unlike some other shoes, UGGs are not entirely waterproof. 

how to make the inside of uggs fluffy again uggs being attacked by water

Can You Put Uggs In The Washer?

This may seem like the easiest, non-hassle method for cleaning your favorite pair of UGGs, but you’ll be doing them more harm than a favor. Even though it’s tempting, the official UGG stance on this question is to never put your UGGs in the washing machine or take them to the dry cleaners. This also goes for your slippers. As they are made from delicate, premium materials and such things can cause damage beyond repair.

How to clean UGGs?

how to clean uggs at home child looking into washing machine

How To Clean UGGs At Home?

So, since the washing machine is a no-go, how can we clean UGGs? Don’t worry there are many simple ways to get your boots and slippers looking as if you’ve just brought them home from the store!

UGG Care Kit

You can find a care kit with everything you’ll need for your UGGs according to the company. This includes maintenance, care, and cleaning. The kit comes with a protector, cleaner and conditioner, shoe renew, a bamboo handle brush, and a suede scruff eraser.

The company issues a care kit with everything you need 

how to clean ugg slippers inside ugg care kit

Get Rid of Water Stains

Water stains are often unavoidable when it comes to UGGs. Since they are so comfortable and cozy, they are typically the first choice in rain and snow. However, as we already know sheepskin and water aren’t the best of friends. So, how do we get rid of those pesky water stains?

Items:

  • Suede Brush
  • Cloth or Soft Sponge
  • Cotton cloth
  • Water
  • Towels

Method:

  1. Use the suede brush all over your boots. This will loosen the nap and get rid of surface dirt.
  2. Use a damp cloth or soft sponge to evenly wet the rest of the boots to prevent watermarks.
  3. Blot the wet areas with a dry towel.
  4. Stuff the boots with rolled towels to help them hold their shape while dry. Make sure to use a light colored towel, as darker colors may dye the white fleece.
  5. Let the UGGs air dry.

Water stains are common 

how to clean uggs without ugg cleaner running water

Get Rid of Salt Stains

Salt stains during winter time can be a real pain, especially when it comes to suede shoes. Keep in mind that before you take on the salt stains, you must first tackle the water stains in order to prevent marks, lines and other types of damage. Make sure to first test both of the following methods on a small part of the boot to ensure no color damage will be done. There are two versions you can try:

Version 1

Items:

  • Mild Dishwashing Soap
  • Cold Water
  • Bowl
  • Soft Cloth
  • Soft Toothbrush or Nubuck Brush

Method:

  1. Add a small amount of soap in the bowl with the cold water. But make sure there is enough to get the job done.
  2. Dip the soft cloth in the solution. Make sure the cloth is not drained.
  3. Gently blot the salt stains.
  4. Let the boots air dry.
  5. After the shoe is fully dried, use a brush to restore the nap.

Make sure to use a mild dish soap

ugg bedroom slippers dish soap

Version 2

Items:

  • White Vinegar
  • Water
  • Cloth
  • Bowl

Method:

  1. Mix a solution from the white vinegar and water. Do it 1:1. This creates a type of suede cleaner.
  2. Dip the cloth in the solution.
  3. Dab the stains gently.
  4. Leave the boots to air dry.

White vinegar and water create an at-home suede cleaner

can i wash my ugg slippers himalyan salt in a spoon

Get Rid of Mud

Alongside rain and salt, mud usually likes to make an appearance on our UGGs as well. However, these stains are much easier to get rid of than the other two we talked about.

Items:

  • Suede Brush or Soft Toothbrush
  • Optional: Suede Cleaner

Method:

  1. Let the mud dry out.
  2. Brush out as much as possible from the mud and dirt. Brush in one direction, so you don’t damage the nap.
  3. If any pesky stains seem to remain, wet the stained area with water.
  4. Apply some suede cleaner onto a cloth and then dip it in water. Apply to stain in a gentle, circular motion.
  5. Allow the boots to air dry.

Mud stains are easy to get rid of

how to clean ugg boots with baby shampoo dried mud

Get Rid of Grease

It happens, one way or another, sometimes a pesky stain like grease has gotten onto your beloved pair of UGGs. Don’t fret, there is a simple and clever method to get rid of the stain.

Items:

  • White Chalk or Corn Starch
  • Paintbrush
  • Suede Cleaner
  • Cloth
  • Water

Method:

  1. Use white chalk or corn starch. They are known to absorb grease. So apply some to the stain and let it sit overnight.
  2. The next day, use a paintbrush to gently wipe off as much of the chalk as you can.
  3. After that clean the UGGs as you would as usual. Use some suede cleaner on a cloth, dip it in water and apply to the stain in a circular motion.
  4. Always let the boots air dry.

If you don’t have white chalk at home, you can use corn starch

how to clean ugg boots at home white chalk

Get Rid of Unpleasant Odor

Don’t worry, this happens more often than we like to admit. Wearing your shoes over long periods of time may give them an unpleasant smell. But there is an easy solution to help combat odor.

Items:

Method:

  1. Sprinkle 1/2 a cup of baking soda onto the insides of each boot.
  2. Let them sit overnight.
  3. The next day, empty out the boots and vacuum out the baking soda.

Baking soda is a cleaning champion

can you put uggs in the washer tipped over jar of baking soda

How To Make The Inside Of UGGs Fluffy Again?

One of the best things about UGGs is their warm, fluffy insides. That’s why it’s a bummer when the soft fleece gets worn out. All that coziness suddenly starts disappearing. So, let’s see how we can revive that great, fluffy goodness into its original shape!

One of the best things about UGGs are their fluffy insides

how to get stain out of uggs woman sitting on a chair wearing uggs

Slicker Brush

Yep, that’s right, a slicker brush. The one you use on your pet’s beautiful coats. If you don’t have one ready at home, there are plenty on the market to choose from. The process is super easy as well.

Items:

  • Water
  • Towel
  • Slicker Brush
  • Optional: Hair Dryer

Method:

  1. Dab the insides of the boots with a clean wet towel.
  2. Brush out the fleece just as you brush your hair.
  3. Let them dry out or use a hair dryer on a low setting. Keep in mind the hair dryer may damage the boots.

Brush the fleece as if you’re brushing your own hair

how to clean ugg slippers classic ugg boots

Shampoo

Just like we have to shampoo our hair to give it a clean, beautiful and fluffy look, we need to do the same to the fleece on the UGGs.

Items:

  • Water
  • Bowl
  • Towel
  • Kitchen Paper
  • Slicker Brush
  • Optional: Hair Dryer

Method: 

  1. Add some drops of shampoo into a bowl of water.
  2. Dip the clean towel into the solution and dab the insides of the boots (or slippers).
  3. After thoroughly dabbing, stick some kitchen paper or a dry towel to absorb the excess water.
  4. Brush the fleece with the brush for extra fluffiness.
  5. Let it dry out or use a hair dryer on the lowest setting. Keep in mind the hair dryer may damage the boots.

Shampoo is a great way to freshen up the fleece 

ugg cleaning kit shampoo and conditioner

These are all the tips and tricks on how to clean UGGs that you need to know! Now, you can safely take care of your favorite pair of boots and have them looking as if brand new. No matter the season, whether you’re cleaning your Birkenstock sandals or your winter boots, make sure to properly clean them, so they can have a long life.

Make sure to take proper care of your boots in order for them to have a long life

how to clean salt off uggs pink ugg boots

John Griffith
John Griffith

John Griffith is a young, passionate journalist. Writing has been John’s hobby ever since he was a boy. He has worked in some of the UK’s most successful news portals over the course of his professional career but found his forever home at Archzine.

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