Uggs and other sheepskin boots require special care when cleaning.

The fleece inside your sheepskin boots becomes moist from sweat or water; bacteria can grow and cause odor.

Boots made of synthetic materials that mimic the look of sheepskin might be able to bemachine-washed.

Tan Ugg boots in a doorway

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However, genuine sheepskin shoes must always be hand-cleaned with products that protect suede leather.

It’s best to brush the shoes outdoors.

Start at the top and brush downward, following the nap of the hide.

Various containers of materials for cleaning Ugg boots

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Use a Suede Cleaner

Use a detergent made forcleaning leatherfor overall cleaning.

Control Odor

What Are Ugg Sheepskin Boots?

Uggs are a popular brand of sheepskin boots, shoes, and slippers.

Someone brushing brown Ugg boots

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Prevent odors inside your boots by deep-cleaning them after every few wearings.

In between deep cleanings, brush the suede outer surfaces of your boots after every wearing.

Do not soak them.

Someone applying suede cleaner to a white cloth

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Stuff each damp boot with a rolled white towel to help the boots hold their shape while drying.

Don’t use a dark-colored towel becausedye could transferto the boots.

Don’t use newspaper since your feet, socks, and boot insides will get ink stains.

Someone using fungal spray inside an Ugg boot

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Allow the boots to air-dry away from full sun or direct heat.

Don’t put the boots in the dryer or use a hair dryer directly on the boots.

High heat can damage the exterior.

Air drying Ugg boots

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

However, they can be removed with a little TLC.

The acetic acid in the vinegar will gently dissolve thesalt.

Do not soak them.

Someone spooning baking soda into an Ugg boot

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Allow the boots to air-dry.

The powder will absorb the oil from the boots.

Brush away the powder with an old toothbrush.

Someone wiping down Ugg boots with a damp cloth

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Keep repeating this procedure until all the oil stains are soaked up by the powder.

Double-stitch the seam so it doesn’t come undone easily again.

Cover a tear in the boot with a suede patch found online and at fabric and craft stores.

Someone dabbing an Ugg boot with vinegar solution

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It might not look as good as new, but it will keep your feet warm and dry.

Storing Sheepskin Boots

Never store damp boots in an enclosed space or container.

Allow the boots to air-dry at least 24 hours after wearing them to let foot and body moisture evaporate.

Someone brushing away scuff marks on Ugg boots

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Tips for Cleaning Sheepskin Boots

You should never wash Ugg boots in a washer.

They should only be washed by hand.

Every three months, spray your Ugg boots with water and stain-repellent spray to protect them.

Someone sprinkling a boot with baby powder

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Ugg boots can last five to 20 years, depending on their care and frequency of use.

Other brands of sheepskin boots may not have the same longevity.