Uggs are soft. Cozy. Warm. And, unfortunately, they’re also magnets for stains. From mud and rain to mystery marks you don’t even remember, these boots go through a lot. But if you’re wondering how to clean Uggs without wrecking them, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions for cleaning your Uggs the safe way. No washing machine required. No panic necessary.
Uggs are made from suede and sheepskin. Translation: they’re comfy, but delicate. You can’t treat them like sneakers. If you use the wrong method, you could end up with stiff, stained, or shrunken boots.
That’s why it’s important to go slow and be gentle. The goal is to get them clean while keeping them soft and shapely.
Before you begin, grab the following items:
A suede brush or soft toothbrush
White vinegar or a suede-safe cleaner
Cold water
Clean sponge or cloth
Paper towels or newspaper
Baking soda (for odor)
Suede protector spray (optional)
If you happen to have the Ugg brand cleaning kit, that works too. But vinegar is a solid backup.
Always start with dry boots. Use your suede brush to gently remove loose dirt. Focus on the toes, heels, and soles. Brush in one direction to lift the nap of the suede. Don’t scrub. Just be gentle and consistent.
This helps get rid of surface gunk before adding any moisture.
Next, use a clean sponge or cloth dampened with cold water. Blot the entire surface of the boots. Don’t soak them. Just lightly moisten the suede.
Why the whole surface? Spot-cleaning can leave water marks. Dampening the full boot helps the cleaning look even.
Now it’s time to treat those stubborn spots.
If you’re using vinegar, mix one part white vinegar with one part cold water. Dip your sponge or cloth into the mix. Gently blot any stains. Work in small circles and take your time.
If you’re using a suede-safe cleaner, follow the instructions on the bottle. Most involve applying a small amount, letting it sit briefly, and then wiping away.
Avoid rubbing. It may seem helpful, but it can actually push stains deeper into the suede.
After cleaning, use a clean damp cloth to blot away any leftover solution. Again, don’t soak the boots. Just blot gently to remove the residue.
This step helps make sure no cleaner is left behind, which can stiffen the material as it dries.
Now comes the waiting.
Stuff your boots with paper towels or newspaper to help them keep their shape. Let them air dry in a cool, shady place. Avoid direct sunlight. And whatever you do, don’t use a hairdryer or place them next to a heater.
Heat can cause the sheepskin to shrink and the suede to harden. That’s not the kind of transformation you want.
Drying usually takes 24 hours or more. Be patient.
Once your Uggs are completely dry, use your suede brush again. Lightly brush the surface to bring back the soft, fuzzy texture.
Your boots should now look fresher, cleaner, and closer to their original glory.
Learning how to clean Uggs isn’t hard. It just takes a little time and care. With the right tools and steps, you can freshen up your boots without ruining them.
So don’t stress about that coffee spill or the muddy dog paw print. With a little effort, your Uggs can look just as good as the day you bought them.
And hey, if you’re cleaning your boots, you might as well give the rest of your home some love too. If you’re in Port Angeles or Sequim and want help, our team at Made can take care of the rest. We handle the dirt, so you can kick back in your clean Uggs.
Want to book a cleaning? We make it easy.
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