When winter sets in across Australia, ugg boots quickly become an everyday essential. From chilly mornings to relaxed nights at home, they get worn hard—and sooner or later, dirt, spills, or water marks appear.
If you’re wondering how to clean ugg boots safely, you’re not alone. Sheepskin footwear needs a different approach to standard shoes, and cleaning them the wrong way can shorten their lifespan. This guide walks you through the right methods, what to avoid, and how to keep your uggs looking good season after season.
Can You Wash UGG Boots in the Washing Machine?
This is one of the most common questions people ask—and the short answer is no.
Washing machines are too aggressive for sheepskin. The spinning action and temperature changes can cause ugg boots to lose their shape, shrink, or dry unevenly. Machine washing can also remove the natural oils found in sheepskin, which affects softness and comfort over time.
If machine washing is unavoidable, use cold water only, select the gentlest cycle available, and place the boots inside a protective laundry bag. Even then, this should be a last resort. Hand cleaning remains the safest option for maintaining the structure and feel of your boots.
How to Clean UGG Boots by Hand (Step-by-Step)
Hand cleaning gives you control and reduces the risk of damage. Follow these steps for a thorough yet gentle clean:
- Lightly wet the entire boot using cold water. Avoid hot water, which can affect the fibres.
- Apply a small amount of ugg-safe cleaner to a sponge or soft brush.
- Clean the whole surface evenly, rather than spot-cleaning, to avoid patchy marks.
- Rinse with cold water to remove any residue.
- Reshape the boots by stuffing them with clean tea towels or paper.
- Air dry slowly in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
Drying may take a couple of days, depending on conditions. Never rush this stage.
Tip: Some people use baking soda combined with water and vinegar as a natural alternative, but always test a small area first.
How to Get Rid of Water Stains on UGG Boots
Caught in the rain? Water stains are common, but they’re fixable.
Here’s a simple method that works well:
- Rub plain white chalk over the water mark and leave it overnight.
- In the morning, gently brush off the chalk with a soft sponge or suede brush.
- If needed, repeat lightly until the mark fades.
For greasy marks, apply cornflour or chalk straight away to absorb the oils before brushing it off.
How to Dry Wet UGG Boots the Right Way
Drying is where many ugg boots are accidentally damaged.
Always let your boots dry naturally at room temperature, away from heaters, fireplaces, dryers, or direct sun. Fast drying can stiffen the suede and affect the internal lining.
Before Cleaning
If your boots are soaked:
- Shake them firmly to remove excess water.
- Gently squeeze (do not twist) to help release moisture.
- Remove mud before it dries.
After Cleaning
- Air dry for 24–48 hours or until fully dry.
- Stuff with plain paper or paper towel to help them hold their shape.
- Hanging them upside down can improve airflow.
Once dry, the boots may feel slightly firmer. Wearing them for a short time helps the fibres relax back into shape.
Ongoing UGG Boot Care and Maintenance
Regular care makes a noticeable difference. Cleaning your ugg boots occasionally and allowing them to dry properly helps prevent long-term wear.
After cleaning, applying a water and oil-repellent spray designed for sheepskin adds a protective barrier against future stains. This is especially useful if you wear your uggs outdoors.
When winter ends, store your boots in a cool, dry place after cleaning them thoroughly. This prevents moisture build-up and keeps them ready for next season.
Final Advice: Take Your Time
Cleaning ugg boots isn’t difficult—but patience matters. Taking shortcuts, using heat, or rushing the drying stage often causes damage that can’t be reversed.
A gentle approach helps your boots stay comfortable, warm, and wearable for years. With the right care, your favourite pair can handle many winters to come.
One helpful habit is to give your boots a quick refresh between deeper cleans. A soft suede brush can lift surface dust, while a light sprinkle of baking soda inside overnight can help keep the lining feeling fresh. The next morning, tip it out and gently tap the boots to remove any residue.
It also pays to act fast when something spills. Blot (don’t rub) with a clean, dry cloth, then let the area dry naturally before you do a full clean. The sooner you tackle marks, the less likely they are to settle into the fibres and become harder to remove later.