How To Clean Ugg Boots - 4 Easy Steps

We have previously spoken to you about the versatility of Uggs. Uggs are a type of sheepskin boots and are popular footwear known for their comfort and unique style. Let’s cover another important topic - how to clean ugg boots.

Aside from the comfort factor, that is why we love them so much! You can wear them all day, every day no matter what you’re up to. Perfect at home, running errands, family outings and catching up with friends.

But with owning a pair of luscious Australian made uggs comes great responsibility. Sheepskin boots like the ugg boot require special care to maintain their quality and comfort.

To ensure maximum care, style and comfort, you will be required to look after your Uggs as they require special care.

Let us teach you how.

Pre-wear protection of your uggs

We couldn’t think of anything worse than receiving your new uggs, taking them out of the wrapping for the first time, wearing them out straight away…  only for it to start raining and them get wet. Or you accidentally stand in a puddle and they’re ruined. Or the kids accidentally spill some water on your fresh pair of ugg slippers or boots. That’s something of nightmares, right?

Well you can actually prevent this from happening by investing in some Ugg Boots Protector Water & Oil Repellent. It’s simple to use, affordable and by taking this extra step before wearing your Uggs, you will be saved from headaches down the track. Simply give your Uggs a good coating or two with the repellent spray and allow at least 10 minutes to dry and absorb before wearing them out. The spray helps make your Uggs more water resistant, protecting them from water and other elements. It also helps prevent staining from water and other liquids, keeping your boots looking new for longer. Yes, it’s that easy!

What if I accidentally get a few raindrops on my uggs?

This is where the repellent spray will come in handy, but sometimes a few drops manage to seep through. Not to worry. There is a solution.  Fold the outer parts of your Uggs together, the same way you would a piece of paper so they meet in the middle. Then, gently rub the fabric together. This should do the trick and get rid of any light spotting, also known as rain spots, which can appear on your Uggs after exposure to rain.

Pre-cleaning preparation

Before you dive into the cleaning process, it’s important to get your ugg boots ready. Start by gently brushing off any loose dirt or debris from the surface using a soft brush or a damp cloth. This simple step helps prevent dirt from being pushed deeper into the sheepskin during cleaning. If you notice any stubborn dirt or stains, take a clean cloth and dampen it with cold water—never hot water, as that can shrink or damage your boots. Add a small amount of mild soap to the cloth and gently rub the affected area in a circular motion. This careful pre-cleaning preparation ensures your ugg boots are primed for a thorough and safe cleaning, helping to maintain their softness and shape.

Cleaning uggs - an unconventional approach

There’s a trending theme here and that is that to ensure your uggs are totally protected from any potential mishaps, you should invest in some repellent spray. But if you do happen to come across a stain on your Uggs, be it from oil, grease, grease stains, or dirt stains, you can remove the stain… but it will require a bit of work!

You’ll need a sharp knife and some plain white chalk. It may seem like a unique combination but trust us, it works. Use the sharp knife to scrape some plain white chalk off the stick and then rub plain white chalk over the stain. For tough stains, you may need to leave the chalk on the boots overnight to allow it to absorb the stain fully. Once the time has passed, wipe off the excess chalk, remove any remaining chalk, and lightly buff the area to finish. It should begin to disappear, but you will need to repeat the process a few times until it is completely removed. After following these steps, your uggs should be cleaned.

If that doesn’t work, you can rub sandpaper gently over the stain, but be warned that this could discolour the uggs.

Cleaning delicate areas

When it comes to cleaning the more delicate parts of your ugg boots, like the suede or sheepskin sections, a gentle touch is key. Use a soft brush or a suede brush to lightly brush away dirt and dust from the surface. For tougher stains, apply a small amount of mild soap or a specialised cleaning solution to a clean cloth, then gently rub the area—being careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the natural fibres. After cleaning, blot the area with a dry cloth to soak up any excess moisture. This approach helps remove stains while keeping the delicate suede and sheepskin looking their best.

How to clean ugg boots at home without cleaner

Of course you can do that! Washing Ugg boots at home is the perfect way to keep your Uggs fresh over a long period of time, especially after they've been worn frequently as winter footwear.

When washing Ugg boots, use warm water instead of hot water, as hot water will shrink your Uggs and can damage the wool lining inside, which provides comfort—especially when worn with bare feet. Grab a clean sponge or soft brush and cover it in Ugg Boots Cleaning Spray & Detergent (yes, there is such a thing!). Use the clean sponge to gently scrub your Uggs evenly and thoroughly. After cleaning, rinse the boots well to ensure all soap residue is removed.

For extra freshness, sprinkle a little baking soda inside the boots after cleaning to help deodorize them. Once sparkly clean, stuff a hand towel or tea towels in each shoe so they keep their shape, and hang them preferably hanging upside down away from direct sunlight in a dry place to air dry until completely dry. Avoid storing or drying your Uggs in wet areas, as this can damage the material. It will take a few days for your Uggs to become completely dry. Once washed and dry, you may notice your Uggs have shrunk the slightest bit - don’t worry, this is completely normal. After wearing them back in for about an hour or so, they will return back to normal.

As for the final step? You guessed it. Apply some Ugg repellent spray for extra protection and extend their life. Remember to clean and store your Uggs at the end of winter so they’re ready for the next season.

Cleaning with a care kit

For an even easier cleaning process, consider using a care kit designed specifically for ugg boots. These kits typically include a gentle cleaning solution, a soft brush, and a waterproofing spray. To use the kit, apply the cleaning solution to the stained area and gently rub it in with the soft brush, following the instructions provided. Be careful not to use too much solution, as over-saturating the material can harm the suede or sheepskin. Once your boots are clean, finish by applying the waterproofing spray to help protect them from future stains and water damage. Always test the products on a small, hidden area first to make sure they won’t affect the color or texture of your boots. Using a care kit is a great way to keep your ugg boots looking fresh and well-protected.

Drying and Maintaining Ugg Boots

After cleaning your ugg boots, it’s crucial to let them dry naturally to avoid damaging the sheepskin or suede. Never use direct heat sources like a clothes dryer or place them in direct sunlight, as this can cause shrinking or warping. Instead, place your boots in a well-ventilated area and allow them to dry completely, away from any heat. You can use a dry cloth to blot away any extra moisture before leaving them to air dry. To keep your ugg boots in top condition, regularly apply a waterproofing spray and avoid wearing them in wet or muddy conditions. Gently brush the surface with a suede brush to remove dirt and keep the nap looking fresh. With these simple maintenance tips, your ugg boots will stay clean, comfortable, and stylish for seasons to come.