Care & Maintenance
How to Clean UGG Boots? The Complete Care Guide
UGG boots are made for comfort, warmth and everyday wear, which also means they can quickly pick up dust, mud, moisture, marks and odours. Because many UGG boots are made from suede, sheepskin, wool or leather, however, they should not be cleaned in the same way as ordinary trainers or synthetic footwear.
If you are wondering how to clean UGG boots, the safest approach is usually gentle hand cleaning with minimal moisture, followed by natural air drying. Traditional sheepskin, suede and leather UGG boots should generally not be soaked or put through a washing machine unless their specific care label clearly states otherwise.
This complete guide explains how to clean the outside and inside of your boots, how to deal with common stains, what to do if you do not have a cleaning kit, and how to keep your UGG boots looking their best for longer.
Can You Wash UGG Boots?
One of the most common questions about UGG care is: can you wash UGG boots?
The answer depends on what you mean by “wash”.
Traditional UGG boots made from suede, sheepskin or leather can usually be cleaned carefully by hand, but they should not normally be soaked in water. A controlled cleaning process using a damp sponge or cloth is very different from fully immersing your boots in water.
When washing UGG boots, the goal should be to use as little moisture as necessary while cleaning the surface evenly.
Before cleaning any pair, always check the care label or product-specific instructions, particularly if your boots contain mixed materials, decorative trims or special finishes.
Washing vs Cleaning UGG Boots
When people search for how to wash UGG boots, they are often really looking for a way to remove dirt or stains.
For most boots, cleaning is a better description than washing.
A typical cleaning routine may involve:
- brushing away dry dirt
- lightly dampening the exterior
- applying a suitable suede or sheepskin cleaner
- gently wiping the surface
- reshaping the boots
- allowing them to air dry
- brushing the material again once dry
By comparison, soaking the entire boot can saturate the materials and may affect the texture, shape or finish.
Can You Put UGG Boots in the Washing Machine?
For traditional suede, sheepskin and leather styles, the answer is generally no.
If you are asking can you wash UGG boots in the washing machine or can you put UGG boots in the washing machine, it is safer to use a gentle hand-cleaning method instead.
A washing machine exposes footwear to:
- excessive water
- prolonged soaking
- spinning and agitation
- detergents that may be too harsh
- pressure that can affect the boot’s shape
These conditions can be difficult on natural materials such as suede and sheepskin.
So, while you may find online tips explaining how to wash UGG boots in a washing machine, this should not be treated as the standard cleaning method for traditional UGG footwear.
Always follow the instructions for your specific product.
What to Do Instead of Machine Washing?
Rather than putting your boots through the washing machine, clean them gradually.
Remove loose dirt first, use a small amount of cold water, apply a suitable cleaner if necessary and work gently across the surface.
This gives you more control over how much moisture enters the material and allows you to treat problem areas without unnecessarily saturating the entire boot.
What You Need to Clean UGG Boots?
You do not need a complicated collection of tools to clean most boots.
For routine cleaning, it helps to have:
- a soft suede or shoe brush
- a clean sponge
- one or two clean cloths
- cold or cool water
- a cleaner suitable for suede or sheepskin
- absorbent paper or clean material for reshaping
- a suitable suede or sheepskin protector
Never assume that a household cleaning product is safe simply because it works on other fabrics.
Natural materials can react differently to detergents, stain removers and chemicals.
With a UGG Cleaning Kit
A dedicated care kit can make the process more straightforward because the products are designed for footwear materials such as suede and sheepskin.
Depending on the kit, it may include:
- cleaner and conditioner
- suede brush
- scuff eraser
- protector spray
- cleaning sponge
Follow the instructions supplied with the individual product, including any directions about dilution, drying time or testing the cleaner on a small area first.
What You Can Use Without a Cleaning Kit?
If you do not have a dedicated cleaning kit, light maintenance can still be done using simple tools.
For minor dirt, you may only need:
- a soft brush
- a clean cloth
- a clean sponge
- a small amount of cold water
Avoid experimenting with strong cleaning chemicals just because they are readily available at home.
For valuable boots or difficult stains, using a material-specific product is usually a safer option than trying increasingly aggressive DIY treatments.
How to Clean UGG Boots Step by Step?
So, how do you clean UGG boots properly?
The best method is slow, gentle and controlled.
The following process is suitable as a general approach for many traditional suede and sheepskin boots. Always check the care instructions for your particular pair before beginning.
Quick Cleaning Steps
- Allow heavy mud to dry.
- Brush away loose dirt.
- Lightly dampen the surface.
- Apply a suitable cleaner.
- Clean the material gently and evenly.
- Remove excess moisture.
- Reshape the boots.
- Air dry naturally.
- Brush the suede after drying.
- Apply a suitable protective treatment if required.
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Mud
Do not immediately wet boots that are covered in dry dust or mud.
If mud is still wet, allow it to dry first where practical. Dry dirt is often easier to remove without spreading it further into the suede.
Use a soft brush and work gently over the surface.
Pay particular attention to:
- seams
- areas around the sole
- the toe
- heel edges
- folds in the material
Avoid aggressive brushing. The aim is to lift surface dirt rather than grind it further into the fibres.
Step 2: Gently Brush the Suede
Once the obvious dirt has been removed, brush the suede more evenly.
Use light pressure and avoid repeatedly scrubbing a single mark.
This step helps loosen dust and prepares the surface for damp cleaning.
If your boots use multiple materials, be careful when brushing around leather panels, trims or decorative elements.
Step 3: Lightly Dampen the Boots
Use clean, cold or cool water to lightly dampen the area being cleaned.
The surface should not be dripping wet.
A clean sponge works well because it allows you to control the amount of moisture being applied.
Where possible, dampen the material evenly rather than completely soaking one isolated patch. This can help reduce uneven drying marks.
Step 4: Apply Cleaner Gently
If your boots need more than water and brushing, use a cleaner specifically suited to their material.
Apply the cleaner according to its instructions.
Do not pour a concentrated cleaning product directly onto one spot unless the product specifically tells you to do so.
Instead, use a sponge or cloth to distribute the cleaning solution gradually.
Step 5: Clean the Entire Surface Evenly
Work gently over the boot using small, controlled movements.
Do not scrub aggressively.
Pay additional attention to dirty areas, but try to keep the overall cleaning reasonably even.
If necessary, repeat a gentle cleaning pass rather than trying to remove a stubborn stain with excessive force in one attempt.
Step 6: Remove Excess Moisture
Once cleaning is complete, use a clean cloth or sponge to remove excess moisture.
Blot rather than rub.
Strong rubbing can disturb the surface texture of suede and may spread dirt.
Avoid twisting, squeezing or pressing the boot excessively.
Step 7: Reshape Your UGG Boots
Damp boots can lose their shape while drying.
Gently fill the interior with clean absorbent paper or another suitable material to help support the boot.
Do not overfill it.
The purpose is simply to maintain the natural shape of the toe, shaft and sides while moisture evaporates.
Replace damp filling material if necessary.
Step 8: Let the Boots Air Dry
Allow the boots to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
Keep them away from unnecessary heat.
Avoid trying to speed up drying with intense direct heat from:
- heaters
- radiators
- hair dryers
- hot air vents
Natural drying takes longer, but it is a much gentler approach.
Make sure both the exterior and interior are completely dry before wearing the boots again.
Step 9: Brush the Suede After Drying
Once the boots are completely dry, the suede may look slightly flattened.
Use a clean suede brush to gently restore the nap.
Brush gradually and avoid excessive pressure.
This final brushing step can make a significant difference to the finished appearance.
Step 10: Apply a Protective Treatment
Once your boots are clean and completely dry, consider applying a protector suitable for their material.
A protective treatment may help reduce the impact of:
- light moisture
- dirt
- everyday marks
Protection does not make every boot fully waterproof, so continue to follow the product’s normal care instructions.
How to Clean UGG Boots Without a Kit?
If you are searching for how to clean UGG boots without a kit, start with the least aggressive cleaning method possible.
For minor dirt, you may not need a specialist cleaner at all.
For Light Dirt
Allow the boots to dry fully if they are damp.
Then:
- Use a clean, soft brush to remove loose dirt.
- Brush gently around the seams and sole edges.
- Wipe remaining surface dirt with a lightly dampened clean cloth if necessary.
- Allow the boots to air dry.
- Brush the suede again after drying.
For routine maintenance, this may be enough.
For Small Marks
A small mark may sometimes be reduced with careful spot cleaning.
Use only a small amount of moisture and avoid aggressively rubbing the stain.
If the mark remains, it is usually better to move to a suede or sheepskin-specific cleaner rather than experimenting with stronger household chemicals.
What Not to Use on UGG Boots?
Avoid using harsh methods simply because a stain is difficult to remove.
Be particularly cautious with:
- bleach
- strong laundry detergent
- harsh household cleaning sprays
- excessive soap
- abrasive brushes
- very hot water
- prolonged soaking
- machine washing
- strong direct heat
There are many homemade cleaning tips online, but natural suede and sheepskin are not materials where stronger automatically means better.
If the boots are expensive, heavily stained or made from unusual materials, professional cleaning may be the safer choice.
How to Clean the Inside of UGG Boots?
The exterior is only part of the cleaning process.
Over time, the lining may collect:
- dust
- moisture
- sweat
- small particles of dirt
- odours
If you want to know how to clean UGG boots inside or how to clean inside of UGG boots, the same general rule applies: use minimal moisture.
Avoid filling the boot with water.
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt From Inside
Start by turning the boots upside down and gently shaking out loose debris.
You can also carefully remove accessible dirt by hand.
If using a vacuum, only use gentle suction and take care not to damage or pull at the lining.
Step 2: Wipe the Sheepskin or Wool Lining
Use a clean cloth that is only slightly damp.
Gently wipe areas that need cleaning.
Do not saturate the lining.
When dealing with natural wool or sheepskin, start with the mildest method possible before introducing cleaning products.
If a cleaner is required, make sure it is appropriate for the lining material.
Step 3: Deal With Odours
Not every odour means your boots need a deep wash.
Start by allowing them to air thoroughly in a dry, well-ventilated place.
Regular ventilation between wears can help reduce moisture build-up inside the boots.
If the odour persists, use a footwear-care product suitable for the lining rather than masking the smell with strong perfumes.
Step 4: Dry the Inside Completely
This is particularly important after cleaning the lining.
Leave the boots in a ventilated location until the inside is fully dry.
Do not wear them while the inner material still feels damp.
If you are wondering how to wash UGG boots inside, think of the process as gentle interior cleaning rather than soaking or rinsing the lining.
The less unnecessary moisture you introduce, the easier the boots are to dry properly.
How to Remove Common Stains From UGG Boots?
Different stains require slightly different approaches.
Whatever the stain, begin with a gentle method and avoid aggressive scrubbing.
How to Remove Mud From UGG Boots?
If possible, allow mud to dry before cleaning it.
Once dry:
- Gently brush away as much as possible.
- Lightly dampen any remaining dirty area.
- Use a suitable cleaner if needed.
- Clean evenly.
- Allow the boots to air dry.
- Brush the surface again when dry.
Trying to wipe heavy wet mud immediately can spread it over a larger area.
How to Remove Water Marks?
Water marks can sometimes appear when one part of suede becomes much wetter than the surrounding material.
Rather than repeatedly wetting only the visible mark, cleaning the affected area more evenly may help produce a more consistent finish.
Allow the boot to dry naturally before deciding whether additional cleaning is necessary.
How to Remove Salt Stains?
Salt and road residue should be dealt with as early as practical because they can leave visible marks.
Start with gentle brushing.
Then use a slightly damp cloth or an appropriate suede cleaner.
Avoid soaking the stained area.
If the residue is stubborn, use a cleaner designed for the material rather than increasingly strong household chemicals.
How to Remove Oil or Grease Marks?
Oil can penetrate suede quickly.
Do not immediately rub a fresh oily stain, as this may spread it.
Blot excess oil carefully without pressing it further into the material.
For remaining grease marks, a material-specific stain treatment or professional cleaner may be more appropriate than general household detergent.
How to Remove Scuff Marks?
Minor scuffs may improve with gentle brushing or a suede eraser.
Work gradually.
Avoid sanding or aggressively scraping the surface, as this can permanently alter the suede texture.
What to Do With Stubborn Stains?
Some stains may not disappear completely after one gentle clean.
If you are dealing with:
- deep oil marks
- dye transfer
- unknown chemicals
- severe water damage
- old stains
- delicate trims
stop before moving to strong chemical treatments.
A professional cleaner experienced with suede and sheepskin may be a safer option.
How to Clean Different UGG Boot Materials?
Not every UGG boot should be treated exactly the same way.
The correct cleaning method depends on the materials used in that particular product.
Suede UGG Boots
Suede benefits from gentle brushing and careful moisture control.
For suede boots:
- remove dry dirt before adding water
- avoid soaking the surface
- use a suede-appropriate cleaner
- air dry naturally
- restore the nap with a suede brush
Always test unfamiliar products cautiously before using them across the entire boot.
Sheepskin UGG Boots
Sheepskin requires gentle treatment because both the outer material and inner fibres can be affected by excess moisture.
When cleaning sheepskin:
- use cool or cold water
- keep moisture controlled
- avoid aggressive scrubbing
- reshape while drying
- allow plenty of time for natural drying
Do not assume a washing machine is safe for sheepskin footwear.
Leather UGG Boots
Smooth leather is different from suede and may require different cleaners and conditioners.
Do not automatically apply a suede cleaning product to leather.
Use a product intended for the relevant leather type and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Water-Resistant UGG Boots
Water-resistant boots are designed to handle a certain level of moisture exposure, but water-resistant does not mean machine washable.
The coating or construction may still require specific cleaning methods.
Check the product care instructions before using cleaners or treatments that could affect the water-resistant finish.
How to Dry UGG Boots After Cleaning?
Proper drying is just as important as the cleaning itself.
Poor drying practices can affect the shape, texture and appearance of footwear.
Air Dry Naturally
Place your boots in a dry, ventilated area.
Allow moisture to evaporate gradually.
Do not rush the process.
Keep the Boots in Shape While Drying
Use clean paper or another suitable support inside the boot.
This helps the toe and shaft maintain their natural form.
Avoid overstuffing.
Avoid Direct Heat
High heat may dry the exterior faster, but faster is not always better.
Avoid placing wet boots:
- directly beside a heater
- against a radiator
- underneath intense hot air
- in front of a hair dryer
Gentle air drying is the safer option.
Make Sure the Inside Is Completely Dry
The outside may feel dry before the lining does.
Check the interior carefully before wearing the boots again.
Leaving enough time for the inner lining to dry can also help prevent persistent damp odours.
Common UGG Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
Even a good cleaning product can produce poor results if the wrong technique is used.
Putting UGG Boots in the Washing Machine
Unless your specific care label says machine washing is suitable, avoid it.
Traditional suede, sheepskin and leather boots generally require gentler treatment.
Soaking the Boots
More water does not necessarily mean a better clean.
Soaking can make drying more difficult and may affect natural materials.
Scrubbing Too Hard
Aggressive scrubbing can disturb the surface of suede and push stains deeper into the material.
Use patience rather than force.
Using Hot Water
Stick to cold or cool water unless the product instructions specifically say otherwise.
Using Strong Household Detergents
Laundry detergent, bleach and multi-purpose cleaning sprays are not automatically suitable for suede, sheepskin or leather.
Use products designed for the material whenever possible.
Drying With Excessive Heat
Do not try to compensate for over-wetting the boots by applying more heat.
Both stages should be controlled: minimal moisture during cleaning and gentle air drying afterwards.
Wearing Them Before They Are Completely Dry
If the inside of your boots still feels damp, give them more time.
Wearing damp boots may affect comfort and can make it harder for the lining to dry properly.
How to Keep UGG Boots Clean for Longer?
Cleaning becomes easier when dirt and moisture are not allowed to build up.
A few simple habits can reduce how often deep cleaning is necessary.
Brush Them Regularly
Occasional brushing removes loose dust before it becomes embedded in the suede.
You do not have to wait until the boots look heavily soiled.
Treat Stains Early
Whenever practical, deal with marks before they have been left for weeks or months.
Use the appropriate method for the stain rather than automatically wetting the entire boot.
Let Them Dry Between Wears
If your boots become damp from weather or normal wear, allow them to dry fully before wearing them again.
Good airflow is especially useful for the lining.
Use a Suitable Water and Stain Protector
A protector designed for the boot material can make routine maintenance easier.
Apply it according to the product instructions.
Remember that protection reduces exposure; it does not necessarily make footwear completely waterproof.
Store Them Correctly
When not in use, store your boots in a dry place away from excessive heat, moisture and direct sunlight.
Keep them upright where possible and avoid crushing them under heavier items.
Proper storage can help maintain their shape as well as their appearance.
How Often Should You Clean UGG Boots?
There is no single cleaning schedule that suits every pair.
How often your boots need attention depends on:
- how frequently you wear them
- weather conditions
- where you wear them
- the colour of the boots
- the material
- exposure to mud or moisture
Light brushing can be done whenever dust begins to accumulate.
Spot clean small marks when necessary.
A deeper clean should usually be reserved for times when the boots genuinely need it rather than performed simply because a certain number of weeks have passed.
Frequent unnecessary wet cleaning may expose the material to more moisture than required.
What’s the Best Way to Clean UGG Boots?
The best way to clean UGG boots is to use the gentlest method that successfully removes the dirt.
For most traditional suede and sheepskin boots:
- Remove loose dirt with a soft brush.
- Lightly dampen the material using cold or cool water.
- Apply an appropriate cleaner if needed.
- Clean gently and evenly.
- Remove excess moisture.
- Reshape the boots.
- Allow them to air dry naturally.
- Brush the suede once completely dry.
- Apply a suitable protector if required.
Avoid soaking the boots, using harsh household detergents or placing traditional sheepskin, suede or leather UGG boots in the washing machine unless their specific care instructions explicitly permit it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning UGG Boots
Can you wash UGG boots?
Traditional suede, sheepskin and leather UGG boots can usually be carefully hand cleaned, but they should not normally be soaked. Use minimal cold or cool water, clean gently and let them air dry naturally. Always check the care instructions for your specific pair before cleaning.
Can I wash UGG boots in the washing machine?
Traditional sheepskin, suede or leather UGG boots should generally not be cleaned in a washing machine unless the product’s care label specifically says machine washing is suitable. Hand cleaning gives you much better control over moisture and agitation.
Can you put UGG boots in the washing machine?
For most traditional UGG boots, it is safer not to. Washing machines use large amounts of water and agitation that may affect natural materials and the shape of the footwear. A gentle hand-cleaning method is usually the better option.
How do you clean UGG boots without a cleaning kit?
Start by brushing away dry dirt with a soft brush. For light marks, use a clean cloth or sponge that is only slightly damp. Allow the boots to air dry and brush the suede again afterwards. For stubborn stains, consider using a cleaner specifically designed for suede or sheepskin rather than strong household chemicals.
How do you clean the inside of UGG boots?
Remove loose dirt first, then gently wipe the lining with a clean cloth that is only slightly damp. Avoid pouring water into the boot or completely saturating the lining. Leave the boots in a well-ventilated place until the interior is fully dry.
How do you wash the inside of UGG boots?
Rather than fully washing or soaking the inside, clean the lining gradually using minimal moisture. Wipe dirty areas gently, treat odours by allowing the boots to air properly and make sure the lining dries completely before you wear them again.
What is the best way to clean UGG boots?
The safest general approach is gentle hand cleaning. Brush off loose dirt, lightly dampen the boots, use a suitable cleaner where necessary, reshape them and allow them to air dry naturally. Avoid harsh detergents, soaking, excessive heat and machine washing unless specifically permitted for that product.
Keep Your UGG Boots Looking Their Best
Learning how to clean UGG boots properly is mostly about using less force, less moisture and more patience.
Regular brushing, early stain treatment and proper drying can reduce the need for aggressive cleaning later. When a deeper clean is necessary, work gradually, use products appropriate for the material and allow the boots to dry naturally.
The same principle applies whether you are cleaning classic suede boots, sheepskin styles, leather designs or water-resistant UGG boots: always treat the material according to its specific care requirements.
With the right routine, your UGG boots can stay cleaner, feel fresher and maintain their shape and texture for much longer.
