The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning and Protecting Your Uggs
Keep your cozy boots in pristine condition with these expert-recommended tips.
Ugg boots are a beloved winter staple, combining warmth, comfort, and style. However, as they're made from delicate suede, cleaning them requires a gentle and careful approach to avoid causing damage or leaving unsightly stains. To help you maintain your boots and keep them looking like new, we consulted shoe care professionals for their top cleaning and protection strategies.
Why Cleaning Uggs Requires Special Care
Suede is a delicate material, making it tricky to clean effectively without causing further damage. According to William Wong, director of Arterton (specializing in garment and shoe care), proper cleaning can preserve the boots' color, restore their appearance, and extend their lifespan. Here's how to clean your Uggs step-by-step.
How to Clean Your Uggs
1. Start with a Suede Brush
Begin by gently brushing the boots with a suede brush, which has rigid bristles designed to lift the nap (texture) of the material and remove surface dust. Always brush in a downward motion to follow the natural grain of the suede.
2. Lightly Damp the Surface
Using a damp sponge, lightly moisten the boots without soaking them, as excessive water can leave stains. A slight dampness will help loosen dirt and make cleaning more effective.
3. Apply Suede Shampoo for a Deeper Clean
Mix a suede-specific shampoo with distilled or low-mineral-content water. Gently lather the solution into the boots using a sponge, then let them air dry. Before they’re completely dry, brush the nap again to restore the suede’s texture.
4. Address Stubborn Stains
For lingering stains like dirt or watermarks, use a suede eraser. Made from crumbly rubber, it works by lifting the stain from the material as you gently rub it over the affected area. Brush off any debris left by the eraser.
How to Clean the Inside of Your Uggs
Ugg boots are lined with sheepskin, making them extra cozy but prone to odor and matting if worn without socks. Sprinkle a few teaspoons of baking soda inside to neutralize smells. Let it sit overnight, then brush it out with a suede brush while fluffing the sheepskin lining.
Protecting Your Uggs From Dirt and Damage
Prevention is key to keeping your Uggs clean. Eric Neuner, CEO of NuShoe, recommends regularly applying a suede protector to repel water and stains.
Steps to Apply a Suede Protector:
- Test the product on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility.
- Spray the boots evenly with the protector, covering the entire surface.
- Allow the boots to dry for 24 hours before wearing them.
For occasional wear, apply the protector once or twice a year. For frequent use, reapply monthly.
Recommended Products for Cleaning and Protecting Uggs
- Ugg Sheepskin and Suede Shoe Care Kit ($34.95)
Includes a protector spray, cleaner, renew spray, suede brush, and stain eraser. - Shacke Suede & Nubuck 4-Way Leather Brush Cleaner ($6.49–$9.99)
Features multiple brush types for comprehensive cleaning. - Takavu Premium Suede & Nubuck Cleaning Brush Kit ($14.99)
Includes two brushes and a stain eraser for tackling stubborn marks. - Crep Protect Ultimate Scuff Eraser ($10.00)
A portable tool designed to remove scuffs and stains with ease. - Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Proof ($11.95)
A water-resistant spray that offers long-lasting protection against stains.
By following these expert-recommended steps, you can keep your Uggs clean, fresh, and ready to withstand the winter season. Regular maintenance, combined with protective products, will ensure your boots remain a cozy and stylish staple for years to come.
