UGG Cleaning Guide & Care Tips
How to Clean UGG Without Damaging the Suede
UGG boots are soft, comfortable, and easy to wear but suede can get dirty fast. The good news is you can safely clean UGG boots at home with the right tools and techniques.
Whether you're dealing with dirt, water spots, or everyday wear, these steps can help keep your UGG looking their best.
What You Need to Clean UGG
- Suede brush
- Microfiber cloth
- Cold water
- Suede cleaner or UGG cleaner
- Paper towels or shoe trees
- Suede protector spray
Avoid bleach, hot water, or heat drying.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning UGG Boots & Slippers
- Brush Away Dirt
- Use a suede brush to remove loose dirt and dust.
- If your boots are muddy, let the mud dry first before brushing.
- Dampen the Suede
- Lightly dampen the entire boot with cold water using a sponge or cloth.
- Do not soak the boots.
- Spot cleaning one area of suede can leave noticeable water rings after drying. Lightly dampening the entire boot helps create a more uniform finish.
- Apply Cleaner
- Use a small amount of suede cleaner and gently clean the surface in circular motions.
- Focus on stains, scuffs, and dirty areas.
- Air Dry Naturally
- Stuff the boots with paper towels to help them keep their shape.
- Let them air dry for 24 to 48 hours away from direct heat or sunlight.
- Restore the Suede Texture
- Once dry, brush the suede again to restore the soft texture.
How to Remove Common Stains
- Mud
- Allow mud to dry completely before brushing it away. Follow the cleaning steps above for any remaining marks.
- Water Spots
- Water spots usually occur when only one section of suede becomes wet. Lightly dampening the entire boot before cleaning often helps reduce uneven drying marks.
- Apply Cleaner
- Use a small amount of suede cleaner and gently clean the surface in circular motions.
- Focus on stains, scuffs, and dirty areas.
- Salt Stains
- Winter salt can leave white residue on suede.
- Clean affected areas gently with a suede-safe cleaner and avoid household chemicals that may discolor the material.
- Brush away any loose surface residue.
- Lightly dampen the entire boot with cold water.
- Apply a suede-safe cleaner and gently work it into the stained area.
- Blot excess moisture with a clean cloth.
- Allow the boots to air dry naturally before brushing the suede to restore its texture.
Common UGG Cleaning Mistakes
- Putting UGG in the washing machine
- Drying them with direct heat
- Using bleach or household cleaners
- Over-saturating the suede
- Scrubbing stains aggressively
- Using protector sprays that are not designed for suede or sheepskin
- Applying protector spray to dirty boots instead of cleaning them first
- Wearing boots immediately after applying protector before they have fully dried
Protect the Suede
After cleaning and once the boots are completely dry, apply a suede-safe protector spray to help guard against water, dirt, and future stains.
- Hold the spray approximately 6 to 8 inches from the boot.
- Apply a light, even coat across the entire suede surface.
- Avoid oversaturating any one area.
- Allow the boots to dry completely before wearing, typically at least 24 hours.
- Reapply protector every few weeks during heavy wear or whenever water no longer beads on the surface.
These mistakes can damage suede, shrink sheepskin lining, cause discoloration, reduce the effectiveness of protector treatments, and affect the shape of the boots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Wash UGG in the Washing Machine?
It is not recommended. Machine washing can:
- Damage suede
- Shrink the lining
- Cause water stains
- Change the shape of the boots
Hand cleaning is the safest method for UGG boots and slippers.
Can you put UGG in the dryer?
- No. Heat can damage suede and shrink the lining.
How Often Should You Clean UGG Boots?
- Brush them regularly and spot-clean stains as they occur. Applying a suede protector after cleaning can help reduce future staining and water absorption.
What is the best cleaner for UGG?
For most classic suede/sheepskin UGG styles, the official UGG Care Kit is the safest manufacturer-aligned option because it includes cleaner & conditioner, protector, shoe renew, a brush, and a suede scuff eraser. It is not a cure-all for every stain, and UGG notes that not all stains can be removed or prevented.
Cleaning UGG boots properly helps preserve the suede, shape, and softness. The best approach is simple:
- Brush regularly
- Use minimal water
- Air dry naturally
- Protect suede after cleaning
Products That Help Keep UGG Looking Their Best
If you're researching how to clean UGG, using the right products makes a big difference. A suede-safe UGG cleaner helps remove dirt, stains, and buildup without damaging delicate materials.
For boots, slippers, and suede styles, many people prefer an all-in-one UGG cleaning kit because it includes the essential tools needed for regular care and maintenance.
Shop our care and cleaning collection: Footwear care and cleaning
If you're wondering how to clean UGG slippers specifically, focus on gentle suede cleaning and natural air drying to help preserve softness and shape.
A dedicated suede cleaner for UGG is recommended over household cleaners since harsh chemicals or excessive water can damage suede and sheepskin materials.
