Last updated 21 May 2026 · 5 min read

Quick answer: To clean genuine sheepskin UGG boots: brush dry with a suede brush, spot-clean stains with a damp cloth and a few drops of sheepskin shampoo, then air dry stuffed with paper away from direct heat or sunlight. Never machine wash, never use a hair dryer, and apply a sheepskin protector spray before first wear to improve water resistance.

How to clean genuine sheepskin UGG boots (step by step)

1. Brush off dry dirt. Use a soft suede or sheepskin brush in one direction. This lifts surface dirt without grinding it into the suede.
2. Spot-clean stains. Wet a clean microfibre cloth with cold water, add a few drops of sheepskin shampoo (or mild wool wash), then gently rub the stained area in circular motions. Do not soak the boot.
3. Rinse with a damp cloth. Wipe over the cleaned area with a fresh damp cloth to remove residue.
4. Stuff and shape. Stuff the boots with white paper (newspaper ink can transfer) to hold their shape while drying.
5. Air dry slowly. Leave the boots in a cool, ventilated spot away from direct sunlight, radiators or heaters. Drying typically takes 12–24 hours.
6. Brush again when dry. Once fully dry, brush the suede in one direction to restore the nap.
7. Re-apply protector spray. Finish with a sheepskin or suede protector spray to renew water and stain resistance.

Daily & seasonal care tips

• Before first wear: apply two light coats of sheepskin protector spray, 15 minutes apart, and let dry overnight — this improves water resistance but does not make the boot waterproof.
• After every wear: brush off dust with a soft brush.
• If caught in rain: blot wet spots with a dry towel immediately, stuff with paper and air dry at room temperature. Never use heat.
• Storage in summer: stuff with paper, keep in a cool, dry, ventilated cupboard. Avoid plastic bags — sheepskin needs to breathe.
• Refresh the wool lining: every few weeks, brush the inside lining with a soft sheepskin or pet brush to lift compacted fibres.

What not to do

• ❌ Machine wash — shrinks and warps the sheepskin.
• ❌ Hot water, hair dryer or radiator drying — stiffens and shrinks suede.
• ❌ Saddle soap, leather conditioner, baby wipes — not formulated for sheepskin.
• ❌ Bleach or harsh detergent — strips natural oils and discolours suede.
• ❌ Wearing in heavy rain or snow — sheepskin is water-resistant, not waterproof. No protector spray changes that.

What you’ll need

• Suede / sheepskin brush
• Sheepskin shampoo or mild wool wash
• Clean microfibre cloth
• White paper for stuffing
• Sheepskin or suede protector spray

Browse our care-friendly UGG boot & slipper range and our sizing guide when you’re ready to shop.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I clean genuine sheepskin UGG boots?

Brush off dry dirt, spot-clean stains with a damp microfibre cloth and a few drops of sheepskin shampoo, stuff with paper, then air dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Brush again when dry.

Can I machine wash my UGG boots?

No. Machine washing damages the suede and shrinks the sheepskin. Always hand clean.

What do I do if my UGG boots get caught in the rain?

Blot wet spots with a dry towel immediately, stuff with white paper to hold shape, and air dry slowly at room temperature. Never dry on a radiator or with a hair dryer — sheepskin shrinks and stiffens with heat.

Should I apply protector spray to my new UGG boots?

Yes. A sheepskin or suede protector spray applied before first wear significantly increases water resistance and stain protection — it does not make the boots waterproof. Re-apply every few months.

How do I keep the wool lining fluffy?

Brush the inside lining with a soft sheepskin or pet brush every few weeks to lift compacted fibres. This also helps the boots regulate temperature.