You love your cozy Uggs, but after a season of rain, snow, or coffee spills, they’re looking a little worse for wear. Before you toss them in the washing machine, you might be wondering—is that actually a good idea?
Caring for Uggs can be confusing, and making the wrong move could ruin your favorite footwear. In this article, we’ll answer whether Uggs can safely go in the wash, walk you through the best cleaning steps, and share helpful tips to keep them looking and feeling great.
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Can Uggs Go in the Washing Machine? The Ultimate Guide
The Short Answer
Putting Ugg boots in the washing machine is generally not recommended by manufacturers or most experts. Ugg boots are made from delicate sheepskin and suede, which can easily become damaged, misshapen, or discolored if cleaned using a washing machine. While there are people who have attempted to machine wash their Uggs and reported varying results, the risks usually outweigh the benefits.
Let’s break down why machine washing isn’t the best way, what can happen if you try it, and how you should care for your beloved Ugg boots instead.
Understanding Ugg Boots: Why They Need Special Care
Ugg boots are iconic for their warmth, softness, and distinctive appearance. The outer material is typically suede, while the inside is lined with plush sheepskin fleece. Both these materials require gentle, specialized cleaning, much like you would treat a treasured wool sweater or a suede jacket.
What Makes Uggs so Delicate?
- Natural Sheepskin: Highly sensitive to water, heat, and agitation.
- Suede Exterior: Prone to watermarks and discoloration; loses softness and naps with improper cleaning.
- Fleece Lining: Can compact, mat, or lose fluffiness if saturated or agitated roughly.
What Happens if You Wash Uggs in the Washing Machine?
If you put your Ugg boots through a washing machine cycle, several things might happen:
- Shape Loss: Agitation and water can cause the boots to lose their structure, making them floppy or ill-fitting.
- Shrinking: Sheepskin can shrink when exposed to water and heat, causing fit issues.
- Color Fading: Suede dye can fade or become blotchy.
- Texture Damage: The soft, napped outer can become rough, stiff, or patchy.
- Stains and Watermarks: Rather than coming clean, your boots may end up with new stains and unsightly watermarks.
- Weakened Seams and Glue: Excessive moisture and tumbling can cause seams to fray or adhesives to fail.
Why Do Some People Still Machine Wash Their Uggs?
Desperation or lack of time sometimes leads people to try the washing machine trick. Although some have claimed fair results—especially with older, well-worn pairs—the majority find that this method causes irreversible harm.
The Right Way to Clean Ugg Boots
Instead of risking your boots in the washer, follow this safe and effective cleaning process:
What You’ll Need
- Soft-bristled brush (suede brush ideal)
- Clean, white cloth or sponge
- Special Ugg cleaner or mild detergent
- Cold water
- Paper towels or shoe forms
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Boots
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Remove laces, inserts, or any removable accessories.
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Brush Off Dirt
- Gently brush the surface to remove loose dirt and dust.
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Always brush in the same direction to avoid damaging the nap.
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Spot Clean Stains
- Dampen a clean sponge or cloth with cold water.
- Apply a small amount of suede or Ugg-specific cleaner.
- Gently dab stains, avoiding vigorous scrubbing.
- Clean the Whole Surface
- Lightly wet the entire boot surface if needed—never soak the boots.
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Use the brush with a touch of cleaner to gently go over the whole boot for an even appearance.
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Rinse Gently
- Wipe away any cleaner with a damp, clean cloth.
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Take care not to saturate the boots.
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Stuff and Shape
- Stuff the boots with clean paper towels or shoe forms to help them keep their shape while drying.
- Air Dry Properly
- Place boots in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
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Avoid heaters, radiators, or tumble dryers—these can severely warp or shrink the boots.
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Restore Texture
- When dry, gently brush the suede surface to restore the nap.
Practical Tips for Keeping Uggs Clean and Fresh
- Waterproof Before Wearing: Protect your boots with a suede-safe water and stain repellent.
- Regular Brushing: Gently brush after wearing to keep dust and dirt from settling in.
- Quick Response to Spills: Blot (don’t rub!) spills immediately with a dry, clean cloth.
- Odor Control: Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside and leave overnight. Shake out excess in the morning.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to cleaners designed for suede and sheepskin.
- Store Correctly: Keep in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing in plastic, which traps moisture.
What if My Uggs Are Very Dirty?
Sometimes, spot cleaning isn’t enough. If your boots are heavily soiled:
- Consider a professional suede and leather cleaning service.
- Ugg makes official care kits, which are specially formulated for their boots.
- For persistent odors, clean the insole separately or consider replacing removable insoles.
Why Machine Washing Isn’t Worth the Risk
With so many gentler ways to clean your boots, it’s easy to skip the washing machine altogether. The risks of shrinking, misshaping, and ruining what makes Uggs so comfortable and attractive just aren’t worth saving a bit of time.
Can You Machine Wash Synthetic Ugg-Style Boots?
Some boots look like Uggs but are made from synthetic materials. These may be more washing-machine friendly (always check the care label!), but even then, hand washing is often safer to maintain their shape and feel.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Stubborn Stains
- Use a suede eraser or a white pencil eraser to rub out dry stains.
- For oil stains, sprinkle with cornstarch and let sit overnight before brushing off.
Foul Odors
- Remove insoles if possible, wash them by hand, and let them air dry.
- Baking soda inside boots can neutralize odors.
Salt Stains (in snowy climates)
- Mix equal parts cold water and white vinegar.
- Lightly dab onto stains with a clean cloth, then let air dry.
Benefits of Proper Cleaning
- Longer Lifespan: Proper care extends the life of your boots.
- Better Appearance: Suede stays soft and looking fresh.
- Odor-Free: Regular maintenance prevents smells.
- Comfort: Inside lining remains plush and cozy.
The Bottom Line
Washing your Uggs in a washing machine is almost always a bad idea. The combination of water, heat, and agitation simply isn’t meant for sheepskin and suede. Take the gentle route: clean by hand, use the right products, and your Ugg boots will stay beautiful and comfortable for seasons to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I put my Ugg boots in the washing machine on a gentle cycle?
Even on the gentle cycle, washing machines can damage Ugg boots. The agitation, water, and even mild spin cycles can still misshape the suede and sheepskin. It’s safest to avoid machine washing altogether.
How should I dry my Ugg boots after cleaning?
Always let your boots air dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Stuff them with paper towels to maintain their shape. Never use a dryer, radiator, or hair dryer—extreme heat can shrink and warp the boots.
What is the safest way to remove stains from Ugg boots?
Spot clean with a specialty suede or sheepskin cleaner and a damp cloth. For stubborn stains, a suede eraser or mixture of vinegar and water can help. Always test on a small, hidden spot first.
How do I prevent my Ugg boots from smelling bad?
Let boots air out after each wear. Sprinkle baking soda inside overnight, and remove insoles to clean or replace as needed. Clean the lining gently, and avoid wearing without socks if possible.
Are there Ugg boots that can safely go in the washing machine?
Most classic Ugg boots should not be machine washed. However, some Ugg-branded shoes or slippers made from synthetic materials may be machine washable. Always check the care label—in most cases, hand cleaning is still the better choice.
By taking a little extra care, you’ll help your Ugg boots remain soft, cozy, and stylish for many winters to come. Remember, a washing machine might seem convenient, but your boots will thank you for a gentler touch!