Your favorite UGG boots have seen better days—mud, spills, and all the adventures in between. With busy schedules, tossing them in the washing machine feels like an easy fix. But is it safe, or will you ruin your beloved footwear?
The right cleaning method matters because UGGs are both a cozy staple and an investment. In this article, we’ll answer whether machine washing is an option and share the best way to keep your UGGs looking their best.
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Can Uggs Be Washed in the Washing Machine? The Definitive Guide
Ugg boots are popular for their warm, cozy feel and classic style. However, with regular wear, they’re bound to get dirty, stained, or lose some of their original luster. A common question arises: Can you wash Uggs in the washing machine? Let’s explore the answer, the pros and cons, best practices, and insider tips on keeping your Uggs looking their best—without unintentionally ruining them!
The Clear Answer: Should You Put Uggs in the Washing Machine?
In most cases, it is not recommended to wash traditional, sheepskin Ugg boots in the washing machine. The agitation, water saturation, and detergents used in machines can seriously damage the delicate materials, cause shrinking, and ruin the distinctive look and feel of your boots.
That being said, there are some synthetic or machine-wash-labeled Ugg products (like certain slippers or casual shoes) that might be safely washed in a machine with careful handling. But for the classic sheepskin-lined Uggs—the ones most people think of—the general rule is to steer clear of machine washing.
Why Machine Washing Damages Traditional Uggs
Here’s what happens if you toss your sheepskin Uggs in the washing machine:
- Sheepskin Shrinks and Warps: The heat, excess water, and agitation cause the sheepskin to shrink, lose its shape, or become stiff.
- Staining and Water Marks: Water can leave ugly stains, rings, or marks on the suede, making the boots look worse.
- Ruined Interior: The plush wool lining may mat, clump, or lose its fluffy texture, reducing coziness.
- Weak Seams and Soles: Repeated soaking damages glue and stitching, potentially causing the boots to fall apart prematurely.
In short, washing traditional Ugg boots in the machine is risky business.
The Better Way: Hand Cleaning Your Uggs
If your Uggs need a clean, your best bet is to gently wash them by hand. Here’s how:
1. Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need:
- Soft-bristled brush or suede brush
- Cold water
- Ugg cleaner and conditioner or mild wool detergent
- Clean, white cloth or sponge
- Towels
- White paper for stuffing (optional)
2. Remove Surface Dirt
- Brush your boots gently with a suede or soft-bristled brush when they’re dry to remove loose dirt and grit.
3. Spot Clean Stains
- Dampen a clean cloth with cold water.
- Add a small amount of Ugg cleaner (or a bit of wool detergent mixed with water).
- Gently blot stains. Don’t rub hard—this can damage the suede.
4. Clean the Whole Boot (If Needed)
- Lightly moisten the entire boot using a damp cloth—never soak it.
- Apply cleaner sparingly.
- Use gentle, circular motions to avoid streaks.
5. Rinse and Dry
- Wipe off excess cleaner with a clean, damp cloth.
- Gently stuff boots with paper towels or white paper to help keep their shape.
- Allow boots to air-dry naturally, away from direct heat or sunlight.
- Once dry, brush with a suede brush to restore the nap.
Benefits of Proper Ugg Cleaning
When you clean your Uggs by hand rather than in the washing machine, you:
- Prolong the lifespan of your boots
- Maintain their original shape and softness
- Preserve the luxurious look of suede and wool
- Avoid unsightly stains, rings, and stiffness
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Deep-set Odors: Use baking soda sprinkled inside overnight, then shake out.
- Stubborn Stains: Try spot-cleaning several times over a few days, letting the boots air out between attempts.
- Restoring Nap: Use a suede brush once the boots are dry for a soft, fresh appearance.
- Salt or Water Marks: Dampen the entire boot evenly (never soak), then dry naturally to avoid rings.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Always brush Uggs when they’re dry—brushing wet suede spreads stains.
- Use minimal moisture; over-wetting is a common cleaning mistake.
- Stuffing boots while drying helps them keep their shape.
- Never use harsh cleaners, bleach, or soaps not meant for wool or suede.
- Direct heat and sunlight are the enemies of sheepskin—dry boots in a cool, airy place.
When Machine Washing Might Be Okay
Some non-sheepskin Ugg products—such as certain slippers, sneakers, or house shoes—are designed with machine washing in mind. Before trying, always check the manufacturer’s care label inside the shoe for washing instructions.
If your Uggs are labeled as machine washable, you can follow these general guidelines:
- Use Cold Water: Set your washing machine to the coldest, most gentle cycle.
- Mild Detergent Only: Use a small amount of mild or wool-safe detergent.
- Skip the Spin Cycle: Spinning can warp or damage the footwear.
- Do Not Tumble Dry: Let shoes air dry naturally; never use heat.
- Protect Shape: Place shoes in a laundry bag and stuff with towels or paper to help maintain their shape.
Even for labeled washable styles, frequent machine washing will wear them out faster. Use this option only when necessary and avoid with classic sheepskin boots.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Washing classic Uggs in the machine: As tempting as it may seem, it’s almost always a recipe for disaster!
- Using colored towels or paper inside the boots: These can bleed dye and stain the lining.
- Skipping the shape step: Letting boots slouch while drying leads to warped, lumpy footwear.
- Rubbing or scrubbing too hard: Whether by hand or machine, harsh treatment damages delicate suede.
Taking Care of Wet Uggs
If your Uggs get soaked (from rain or snow):
- Remove excess water by gently blotting with a dry, clean towel—never wring or twist.
- Allow to dry naturally, stuffing with paper to maintain shape.
- Once dry, brush with a suede brush.
Storing Uggs Between Wears
- Make sure Uggs are clean and dry before storage.
- Store in a cool, breathable area—avoid plastic bags or tight spaces.
- Use boot shapers or rolled towels inside to prevent creases.
Concluding Summary
While tossing your Uggs in the washing machine may seem like a quick fix, it’s rarely worth the risk—especially for classic sheepskin styles. Hand washing with gentle care helps keep your boots cozy, attractive, and long-lasting. Always treat Uggs with the same care you’d give any luxury shoe, and remember—sometimes a little patience pays off in lasting comfort!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I put my Ugg boots in the washing machine if they’re really dirty?
It’s not recommended for classic sheepskin Uggs, even if they’re heavily soiled. Machine washing can damage the material and ruin the boots. Instead, try hand-washing or spot cleaning for the best and safest results.
2. Why do my Uggs smell bad, and how can I freshen them up?
Odor can build up from sweat and moisture. Sprinkle some baking soda inside your boots and leave it overnight, then shake out the excess to help neutralize odors. Make sure your boots are completely dry before storing.
3. How do I remove water stains from my Ugg boots?
To treat water stains, evenly dampen the entire exterior of the boot with a clean, wet cloth. Gently stuff the boots with paper, then allow them to dry naturally away from direct heat. Brush gently with a suede brush once dry.
4. What’s the best way to dry Ugg boots after cleaning?
Allow Uggs to air-dry naturally in a cool, well-ventilated area. Stuff them with paper (not newspaper) to keep their shape. Avoid using a hair dryer, radiators, or direct sunlight, as excessive heat can shrink and warp the material.
5. Can I use regular soap or laundry detergent to clean my Uggs?
No, standard soaps and detergents can harm both the suede and wool lining. Always use a cleaner specifically designed for sheepskin or suede, or a very mild wool detergent diluted with water.
Taking the time to clean your Uggs properly will help you enjoy that cozy, luxurious comfort for seasons to come!