How to Clean UGGs the Right Way
Pro Housekeepers is a nationwide housekeeping company. This guide explains how to clean UGG boots the right way — sheepskin and suede-safe methods, water-spot fixes, careful washing limits, and when to use a professional cleaner — so you do not ruin the nap or the shearling lining.
Classic UGGs and many lookalikes use sheepskin (suede-like exterior, wool lining). That material hates soaking, high heat, and harsh detergents. Spot-clean first; wash whole boots only when necessary and only if the care label allows. Always air-dry away from radiators and direct sun.
Why UGGs are tricky
- Suede and shearling can stiffen or shrink if soaked and heat-dried
- Water leaves dark spots on unfinished suede
- Oil and salt stains set if rubbed hard
- Machine washing can crush the nap and damage adhesives on some pairs
Supplies you will need
- Suede brush or soft clean toothbrush; clean white cloths
- Mild baby shampoo or a cleaner made for sheepskin/suede
- Lukewarm water; optional white vinegar for salt stains (diluted; test first)
- Paper towels or clean paper to stuff boots while drying
- Sheepskin/suede protector spray for after cleaning (use outdoors, follow label)
Safety: never mix bleach with vinegar or ammonia. Avoid bleach on sheepskin. Work in a ventilated area with protector sprays. Keep wet boots away from open flames and heaters.
How to clean UGGs with baby shampoo (spot method)
- Dry brush dirt from the exterior with a suede brush. Knock soles together outdoors to free grit.
- Mix a few drops of baby shampoo in lukewarm water. Dampen (do not soak) a cloth.
- Wipe stained areas gently with the grain of the suede. For the lining, lightly wipe with a barely damp cloth if needed — do not saturate.
- Wipe again with a clean damp cloth to remove soap. Blot with a dry towel.
- Stuff with paper to hold shape. Air-dry at room temperature, away from direct heat and sun. Replace paper as it dampens. When fully dry, brush the nap to refresh.
Brand sheepskin cleaner kits follow the same idea — small moisture, gentle agitation, full dry, then brush.
How to remove water stains
Water spots appear when some fibers dry darker than others. Lightly dampen the entire panel evenly with a clean damp cloth so the color blends as it dries, then stuff and air-dry. Brush when dry. Prevention (protector spray on clean dry boots) works better than repeated emergency fixes.
Salt and oil stains
- Salt lines: wipe with a cloth barely dampened in 1:1 white vinegar and water, then with clean water; blot; dry; brush. Spot-test first.
- Oil: sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda overnight to absorb; brush off; then gentle shampoo spot-clean if a mark remains.
Washing machine — only with caution
Many sheepskin makers discourage machine washing. If your care label allows cold gentle wash, use a mild detergent, place boots in a pillowcase or mesh bag, and skip bleach and fabric softener. Air-dry only — never tumble dry. Expect some stiffness; brush thoroughly when dry. If the boots are expensive, leather-trimmed, or heavily glued, skip the machine and use spot cleaning or a pro.
How to protect UGGs
- Clean and fully dry first.
- Apply a suede/sheepskin protector spray in light coats outdoors; let dry between coats.
- Reapply periodically, especially after washing or heavy rain exposure.
- Store in a cool dry place with cedar or breathable bags — not plastic that traps moisture.
When to use a professional cleaner
Take boots to a leather/sheepskin specialist for heavy oil stains, dye transfer, mold, or pairs you are not willing to risk. General house cleaners do not typically wet-clean footwear; for floors and entryways that muddy your boots, Pro Housekeepers’ regular cleaning and deep cleaning keep grit from being tracked in. Related care tip: our carpet stain guide helps when wet boots leave marks indoors.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a hair dryer?
No — high heat can shrink and harden sheepskin. Room-temperature air only.
Do UGGs go in the dryer with tennis balls?
Avoid it. Heat and tumbling damage shearling and adhesives.
Why do my UGGs smell?
Moisture trapped in the lining. Dry thoroughly after wear, rotate pairs, wipe the lining lightly, and air out. Severe odor may need a specialist.
Are fake UGGs cleaned the same way?
Check the label — synthetic suede and faux shearling may tolerate different products. When unsure, spot-test and stay conservative with water.