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how to clean uggs slippers

To clean UGG slippers safely, use a gentle, damp-clean method with mild cleaner, avoid soaking, and always air-dry away from heat to protect the suede and sheepskin lining.

Check the material first

Before starting, confirm what your slippers are made of, because classic UGGs use suede or nubuck on the outside and a sheepskin or faux-shearling lining inside. Different materials (like leather or knit uppers) may need slightly different products, but the same gentle, non-soaking approach still applies.

  • Look on the care label or box for “suede,” “sheepskin,” or “nubuck” care instructions.
  • If they are genuine UGG brand, using cleaners made for suede/sheepskin is safest to prevent stiffening or discoloration.

What you’ll need

Gather supplies before you start so you can work quickly and avoid over- wetting the slippers.

  • Soft brush (suede brush or soft toothbrush) for loose dirt.
  • Mild cleaner: UGG-branded cleaner/conditioner or a small amount of gentle, non-bleach liquid detergent or castile soap.
  • Clean sponges or microfiber cloths for washing and rinsing.
  • Cold water only, since warm or hot water can warp and shrink suede and sheepskin.
  • Paper towels or clean towels to blot moisture, plus plain paper or cloth to stuff inside and hold the shape.

Step-by-step: outside cleaning

Cleaning the outside is all about light moisture and even coverage to avoid tide marks.

  1. Brush off dry dirt
    • Gently brush the slippers in one direction to lift surface dust and restore the nap of the suede.
 * Do this while they are completely dry to avoid grinding dirt into damp fibers.
  1. Lightly dampen the surface
    • Use a cloth dampened with cold water to moisten the entire exterior evenly; it should feel cool, not soaked.
 * Avoid saturating seams and the sole edge, which can cause warping or water lines.
  1. Wash with mild cleaner
    • Mix a small amount of cleaner with cold water and work it into a light lather on a cloth or sponge.
 * Gently rub in small circles over the whole slipper, focusing on stained or darker areas so the color dries evenly.
  1. Rinse and blot
    • Wipe off soap with another cloth dampened in clean cold water until there is no visible residue.
 * Blot, don’t rub, with a dry towel or paper towels to pull out as much moisture as possible.
  1. Shape and air-dry
    • Stuff slippers with paper towels or clean cloths to support the toe and heel.
 * Let them dry naturally in a cool, ventilated spot, out of direct sun or heaters, which can shrink and stiffen suede.

Step-by-step: inside cleaning & deodorizing

The lining can trap sweat and odor, but it also mats easily, so handle it gently.

  1. Quick refresh
    • Shake out loose debris, then lightly brush the lining with a soft, clean brush to lift flattened fibers.
 * Sprinkle a little baking soda inside, leave for a few hours, then shake or vacuum it out for odor control.
  1. Spot-clean the lining
    • Dampen a cloth with cold water and a drop of mild, colorless detergent or UGG cleaner.
 * Gently dab (don’t scrub hard) on discolored areas, then wipe with a cloth dampened in clean water to remove soap.
  1. Dry the interior
    • Stuff the slippers again so air can circulate and the lining dries fluffy instead of flat.
 * Let them sit until fully dry before wearing to avoid stretching and odor from damp sheepskin.

Stain tips and what to avoid

Certain stains and mistakes can ruin UGGs if handled harshly, so a few precautions go a long way.

  • For food or light liquid stains, blot quickly with a dry towel, then follow the usual damp-clean steps.
  • For greasy stains, a bit of cornstarch left on the spot overnight can help absorb oil before brushing and light cleaning.
  • Avoid putting UGG slippers in the washing machine or dryer; agitation, hot water, and high heat can deform and harden them.
  • Skip bleach, harsh stain removers, or colored detergents that can strip dye or leave bright rings.

Keeping them clean longer

Regular light care keeps your slippers looking newer and cuts down on deep cleans.

  • Use a suede/sheepskin water-and-stain-repellent spray, applied evenly and allowed to dry fully before wearing.
  • Brush them periodically to lift the nap and knock off dust before it embeds in the material.
  • Avoid wearing them outside in wet weather, and store them in a cool, dry place—not crammed at the bottom of a closet.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.