Water exposure can leave Ugg boots looking dull or harboring odors. This guide provides practical steps to safely dry and clean suede and sheepskin boots, restoring their appearance and prolonging lifespan. The methods emphasize gentle cleaning and the right tools to avoid damage.
Quick Answer
Remedy in brief: Gently blot excess moisture, allow boots to air dry away from heat, then use a suede brush and cleaner designed for UGG boots to lift stains. Finish with microfiber cloths to buff and restore nap. Avoid soaking and harsh cleaners.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following tools and products to treat wet UGG boots effectively. Use each item as directed to protect the suede and sheepskin.
- Suede brush for UGG boots
- Sheepskin care kit suede cleaner
- Nubuck suede cleaner kit
- Suede eraser for shoes
- Microfiber cloths for suede care
Before You Start
Before cleaning, remove loose dirt and let the boots dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Do not use direct heat, radiators, or hair dryers, as rapid drying can cause shrinkage or stiffness. If odors are present, consider an odor-neutralizing step after cleaning. This process assumes standard UGG-style suede and sheepskin materials.
Cautions: Avoid soaking the boots; water can weaken glue and cause staining. Test cleaners on a small, inconspicuous area first. If boots are heavily saturated or if leather-like material shows signs of wear, consult a professional.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Ugg Boots That Got Wet
- Gently blot excess water using a clean microfiber cloth. Do not rub, as this can spread stains and push moisture deeper.
- stuff the boots with paper towels to help absorb moisture from the interior and maintain shape while drying.
- Place boots in a cool, dry area with good airflow. Avoid direct sunlight and heaters.
- Once surface moisture diminishes, brush the nap with a suede brush for UGG boots to restore texture and lift fibers.
- Apply a small amount of sheepskin care kit suede cleaner to a microfiber cloth and gently wipe the outer suede in a light circular motion.
- For stubborn stains, use a suede eraser for shoes on affected areas, then brush again to restore nap.
- Repeat cleaning with a clean, damp cloth to remove residue, then blot dry with a fresh microfiber cloth.
- Let boots air dry completely, then apply a final brushing to even nap and restore softness.
- If odors persist, use an approved odor-neutralizer designed for suede and sheepskin after the boots are fully dry.
- Store boots in a cool, dry place with ventilation to prevent moisture buildup during future use.
- Regular maintenance: brush after wear and follow a cleaning routine using the kit appropriate for your boot material.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| White streaks after drying | Residual soap or moisture unevenly dried | Gently dampen and re-apply cleaner with light strokes, then dry | Use minimal cleaner and evenly distribute |
| Nap looks flat or matted | Over-wetting or friction during cleaning | Brush with suede brush to lift nap | Dry gradually and avoid aggressive rubbing |
| Discoloration on edges | Stain penetration or dye transfer | Spot-clean with nubuck suede cleaner kit | Avoid over-wetting and test colors |
| Strong odor persists | Moisture trapped leading to mildew | Use odor-neutralizing product and ensure complete dryness | Air out thoroughly after cleaning |
Common Mistakes
- Using hot or direct heat to dry boots quickly
- Over-wetting suede or sheepskin with cleaners
- Rubbing vigorously, which can damage nap and fibers
- Skipping a patch test before applying cleaners
Tips For Best Results
- Clean wet UGG boots as soon as practical to reduce stain setting.
- Always use products designed for suede and sheepskin to protect leather integrity.
- Store dry boots with ventilation to prevent musty smells.
- Regularly brush to keep nap uniform and maintain the boot’s appearance.
Call A Professional
Seek professional help if the boots show significant damage, such as deep staining, delamination, or persistent odors after home cleaning. Immediate professional assessment is advised when material integrity seems compromised or if waterproofing needs reapplication beyond consumer kits.
FAQ
Can I clean UGG boots that got wet every day?
Yes, follow a gentle routine after each damp exposure and allow thorough air drying to prevent mildew.
Is it safe to use a microfiber cloth on suede?
Yes, microfiber cloths are soft and effective for lifting moisture and debris without scratching.
What should I do if the color fades after cleaning?
Use a color-safe suede cleaner and test first on a hidden area; consider a professional recolor if fading persists.
Can I use my regular shoe cleaner on nubuck suede?
It is better to use a cleaner specifically labeled for nubuck or suede to avoid damage.
How long does drying take?
Air drying can take 6–24 hours depending on climate and boot material; avoid heat sources to protect the nap.
Buying Guide
When selecting cleaning supplies for UGG boots, consider size and scope of care, expected humidity, and frequency of use. Key factors include:
- <bSize and packaging: Choose products that fit your cleaning cadence and come in convenient sizes for regular maintenance.
- <bNoise level (if using powered tools): Most cleaning is hand-based, but brushes should operate quietly if electric models are involved.
- <bEnergy efficiency: Manual tools consume no power; consider efficiency if you frequently clean multiple pairs.
- <bControls and ease of use: Simple, clearly labeled cleaners with safe instructions reduce risk of misuse.
- <bPlacement and storage: Store cleaning kits in a cool, dry area away from direct sun to maintain product effectiveness.
When comparing kits, assess whether the included components cover the full range of needs: suede brush, erasers, specific cleaners for nubuck and sheepskin, and microfiber cloths. Look for kits that provide clear care instructions and stain-specific solutions to handle common wet-clean scenarios.